North Miami-Dade News

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last week, Congress approved the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2024, which includes language from Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar's REEF Act (H.R. 950), co-sponsored by Representatives Ed Case (D-HI) and Mike Waltz (R-FL). The bill is now awaiting President Biden's signature.

The Reutilization of Equipment for Environmental Fortification (REEF) Act allows retired Navy vessels to be repurposed as artificial reefs, enhancing marine environments, creating recreational opportunities, promoting tourism, and supporting our veterans.

"As a representative of a coastal district, I am aware of the incredible environmental benefits that artificial reefs can bring to marine ecosystems," said Congresswoman Salazar (FL-27). "With these new policies in place, states like Florida can recycle more decommissioned ships, which is a great win for our environment, our veterans, and our economy."

Congressman Waltz played a pivotal role in securing this language in the bill during its consideration in the House Armed Services Committee.

"Floridians are proud of our coral reefs," said Representative Waltz (FL-06). "Better coordination between the U.S. Navy and our state wildlife agencies to provide habitat for corals through sunken retired vessels, like the USS Mindanao off Daytona Beach, will only help boost our local economies through increased recreational fishing and tourism. I am proud to work with Congresswoman Salazar on this initiative."

The Conference Report accompanying the NDAA included a section titled "Congressional Notification on Pending Retirement of Viable Naval Vessels for Artificial Reefs." In this report, Congress recognizes the need to improve the way the Navy interacts with states when transferring vessels that are suitable for artificial reefs.

It also establishes an annual mechanism for listing Navy vessels ready for disposal and directs the Secretary of the Navy to report to Congress on the Navy's artificial reef process.

"The creation of artificial reefs using excess naval vessels will help restore and preserve our fragile oceanic ecosystem and create opportunities for those who want to explore the biodiversity surrounding a sunken structure," said Congressman Case (HI-01), a co-sponsor of the provision. "There are a number of structures, including small boats and planes, in waters off my home state that restore our threatened marine ecosystem and attract those who want to experience our marine life up close and understand how it should be preserved. Our provision will expand these opportunities throughout our country."

"We thank Congresswoman Salazar and Congressman Waltz for their efforts in securing a decommissioned Navy vessel as an artificial reef off the coast of Florida. The language in the NDAA will start a conversation about the best vessels that could be made available for artificial reefs, which means more incredible opportunities for recreational fishing and diving for Florida residents and visitors," said Rodney Barreto, Chairman of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

Florida has been a leader in artificial reefs, and these new provisions will help the state secure more retired ships in the future. Otherwise, these ships would have been dismantled in a scrapyard.

To learn more, click on this link: https://salazar.house.gov/media/press-releases/disposiciones-de-la-ley-reef-de-la-congresista-salazar-son-promulgadas-en-la