H.R. 5745 · In committee · Public Lands and Natural Resources

Marine Fisheries Habitat Protection Act

What it does

Amends the National Fishing Enhancement Act of 1984 to allow oil and gas platform and pipeline operators to convert decommissioned offshore structures into artificial reefs instead of removing them entirely.
Establishes a process requiring operators to submit a notice of intent to reef and undergo a 180-day assessment by the Director of the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement, in consultation with NOAA, to evaluate marine habitat and economic benefits.
Requires the Director to determine within 60 days after assessment completion whether an inactive structure qualifies as an eligible structure for reefing in place, based on criteria including established reef ecosystems and habitat suitability.
Defines reefing in place as decommissioning methods including abandonment in place, toppling in place, or partial removal, designed to maximize reef ecosystem benefits while maintaining navigational safety in consultation with the Coast Guard.

Sep 15, 2026: Ordered to be Reported in the Nature of a Substitute by the Yeas and Nays: 22 - 16.

Committee: House Natural Resources