FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 21, 2025
American Coastal Coalition Opposes Anti-CZMA Bill Introduced by
Rep. Kevin Kiley
The American Coastal Coalition (ACC), representing America’s coastal communities, businesses, and stakeholders, opposes the bill (HR 1874) introduced by Rep. Kevin Kiley (R-CA) that threatens to strip states of their authority under the Coastal Zone Management Act (CZMA) to review and approve or disapprove of federal projects from occurring in state waters.
This bill amends the CZMA by establishing a “conclusive presumption” that coastal states automatically concur with a broad range of federal actions in their coastal zones. The bill would weaken the voices of states, local communities, and industries in responding to federal developments in state waters—such as offshore energy projects, infrastructure development, disaster recovery efforts, and national security initiatives—that impact their economies, environments, and ways of life.
“For over 50 years, the CZMA has empowered coastal states and territories to collaborate with federal agencies, ensuring that federal decisions align with state coastal management programs designed to protect local interests. This bill would take that power away,” said Dan Ginolfi, Executive Director of the American Coastal Coalition.
From preserving beaches for tourism, maintaining clean water, and supporting maritime commerce to safeguarding fishermen’s livelihoods, the CZMA has been a vital tool for coastal communities nationwide—red states and blue states alike. This bill would erase that partnership, handing unchecked power to the federal government and sidelining the needs of those who live and work along our shores.
The American Coastal Coalition calls on Congress to reject this dangerous legislation and uphold the CZMA’s proven framework.
About the American Coastal Coalition:
The American Coastal Coalition serves as a unified voice for America’s coastal communities in Washington, DC. Our mission is to promote and preserve coastal economies, environments, and cultures through active engagement with Congress, Federal agencies, and the Executive Branch.