A bipartisan bill proposed on June 18 by U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker (R-MS) would reauthorize the Integrated Ocean Observing System (IOOS) for the next five years, maintaining its current funding level at $56 million annually.
“IOOS is critical to keeping the Gulf Coast a great place to live, work, and raise a family,” Sen. Wicker said. “Reauthorizing this funding would continue the necessary ocean monitoring resources and improve our understanding of needs along the coast.”
The Gulf of America Coastal Ocean Observing System (GCOOS) — along with the 10 other regional systems that make up the national IOOS — plays a critical role in enhancing disaster forecasting and preparedness, supporting safe navigation, aiding U.S. Coast Guard search and rescue missions, and informing daily decisions that keep American coasts safe and economically vibrant.
The Integrated Ocean Observation System Reauthorization Act of 2025, S. 2126, which Sen. Wicker sponsored alongside lead original cosponsor U.S. Sen. Maria Cantwell (D-WA), also would bring continued support for ocean monitoring efforts that improve coastal communities, fisheries, and maritime industries, according to a bill summary provided by Sen. Wicker’s staff.
“This legislation would help secure U.S. leadership in ocean science and increase economic development,” said Sen. Wicker. “I look forward to seeing the continued success of this program and how it benefits our growing and vibrant maritime economy.”
The legislation has been endorsed by the IOOS Association, the GCOOS, and the Northwest Association of Networked Ocean Observing System (NANOOS).
“Everyone from ship captains to shellfish farmers rely on the weather forecasts, navigational safety alerts, and ocean acidification monitoring provided by the [IOOS],” Sen. Cantwell said. “Our bill would reauthorize the program so it can keep supplying life-saving information that coastal communities need.”