Sec. 2. Findings, purposes, and policy
401 words·~2 min read·
/bill/113/s/1202/is/section-2A research copy — for the controlling text, always check the official state or federal source. Not legal advice.
Congress finds that— natural resources provide significant benefits to the people and economy of the United States, including— abundant clean water supplies; flood and coastal storm protection; clean air; a source for food, fiber, medicines, and pollination of the crops and other plants of the United States; outdoor recreation, which is a source of jobs and economic stimulus; hunting and fishing opportunities and support of subsistence communities; scientific research and education; and world-class tourism destinations that support local economies; the United States Geological Survey, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, and other agencies within the United States Global Change Research Program have observed that the natural resources of the United States are facing increasing impacts from extreme weather and climate change, including— more frequent and severe droughts and heatwaves; more frequent and severe storms and floods; more frequent and severe wildfires; more frequent and severe outbreaks of forest pests and invasive species; flooding and erosion of coastal areas due to rising sea levels; melting glaciers and sea ice; thawing permafrost; shifting fish, wildlife, and plant population ranges; disruptive shifts in the timing of fish, wildlife, and plant natural history cycles, such as blooming, breeding, and seasonal migrations; and ocean acidification; and the Federal Government should provide leadership in preparing for and responding to the impacts described in paragraph
(2)to ensure that present and future generations continue to receive the benefits of the abundant and diverse natural resources of the United States. The purpose of this Act is to establish an integrated Federal program— to respond to ongoing and expected impacts of extreme weather and climate change by protecting, restoring, and conserving the natural resources of the United States; and to maximize government efficiency and reduce costs, in cooperation with State, local, and tribal governments and other entities. It is the policy of the Federal Government, in cooperation with State and local governments, Indian tribes, and other interested stakeholders to evaluate and reduce the increased risks and vulnerabilities associated with future extreme weather events and other climate impacts in carrying out the respective missions of those entities and to use all practicable means to protect, restore, and conserve natural resources so that natural resources— become more resilient, adapt to, and withstand the ongoing and expected impacts of extreme weather and climate change; and can continue safeguarding the communities in, and sustaining the economy of, the United States.