S. 3508

Save Our Seas Act of 2018

This bill addresses marine debris and maritime safety issues.

Specifically, the bill amends the Marine Debris Act to reauthorize through FY2022 and revise the Marine Debris Program, including to require the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to respond to severe marine debris events.

In addition, the bill expresses support for the Great Lakes Land-Based Marine Debris Action Plan.

Hamm Alert Maritime Safety Act of 2018

The bill establishes marine safety requirements, such as requirements concerning vessel inspections, safety management plans, safety equipment, voyage data recorders, technology used in rescue operations, oversight of recognized organizations that act on behalf of the Coast Guard, and timely weather forecasts and hazard advisories.

Coast Guard Blue Technology Center of Expertise Act

The U.S. Coast Guard may establish a Blue Technology Center of Expertise to promote awareness about blue technologies and their potential to enhance the Coast Guard's mission readiness and operational performance. Blue technology includes technology that supports maritime domain awareness (e.g., surveillance), search and rescue, emergency response, maritime law enforcement, or protection of the marine environment.