Save Willy Act of 2026

Improved coordination and safety for the maritime industry: The Cetacean Desk is designed to improve coordination with the maritime industry to reduce the risk of vessel impacts, such as strikes and disturbances (Section 2(a)(1)(B)(i)).

Enhanced tracking of large cetaceans: The program will monitor the presence and location of large cetaceans in the San Francisco Bay and the strait of Golden Gate (Section 2(a)(1)(B)(ii)).

Use of advanced technology for better data: The program will evaluate and adopt new and emerging technologies, including automated or artificial intelligence-enabled tools, to improve the detection, identification, and tracking of large cetaceans (Section 2(e)(1)(A)).

Better information sharing: The Secretary may enter into a memorandum of understanding to facilitate the real-time sharing of data regarding large cetaceans between the State of California, NOAA, and the San Francisco Vessel Traffic Service (Section 2(c)).

Training and guidance for vessel operators: The program may include training for vessel operators regarding marine mammal protection, such as vessel buffer zones, vessel speed, and seasonal no-go zones (Section 2(g)(3)(B)).

Workload increases for existing staff: The two full-time equivalent positions required for the Cetacean Desk may include responsibilities that contribute to other necessary San Francisco Vessel Traffic Service duties as needed (Section 2(a)(2)(A)(i)).

Potential operational restrictions for vessels: Through local variances and cooperative agreements, vessel operators may face requirements related to vessel buffer zones, vessel speed, and seasonal no-go zones (Section 2(g)(3)(B)).