Bill Would Create Federal Grant Program for Projects that Enhance the “Blue Economy”

House Resolution 7970, the “Ocean Regional Opportunity and Innovation Act of 2022” would establish “Ocean Innovation Clusters” including a grant program and other programs to foster growth of the “Blue Economy,” which is defined as a range of “sustainable” industries that includes renewable energy development, but also offshore mining, seafood processing, and shellfish aquaculture. The bill has been referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources.