Bill · H.R. 9647· House(119-HR-9647)

To prohibit the National Science Foundation from obligating or expending Federal funds to descope or decommission the Ocean Observatories Initiative instruments, and for other purposes.

Age: 72 years

Oregon

Introduced: 7/13/2026
Last activity: 7/13/2026 — Referred to the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology.
Sponsored by: Suzanne Bonamici
Cosponsors: - 9 - 2

Science, Technology, Communications

Introduced
In Committee

What this bill would do

H.R. 9647 is a bill that stops the National Science Foundation from using Federal funds to descope or decommission Ocean Observatories Initiative instruments. This restriction applies to instruments located in the Irminger Sea and off the coasts of Alaska, Washington, Oregon, and North Carolina. These restrictions remain in place until the National Science Foundation performs a thorough review of the Initiative and its national assets. This review must include engagement from coastal communities and the scientific community. Additionally, the Director of the National Science Foundation must keep the Initiative operating fully and consistently during this time.

Yes· 3 of 4

Does this put more money into scientific research?+7
Prevents the loss of scientific assets and requires maintenance of ocean observatory operations.
Would students be better off under this?+5
Maintains infrastructure essential for oceanographic research and academic study.
Does this better protect air, water and wildlife?+5
Preserves ocean observatories which provide critical environmental monitoring data.