To oppose the permitting of deep seabed mining and exploration for deep seabed mining, and for other purposes.
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Rep. Case, Ed [D-HI-1]
ID: C001055
Bill's Journey to Becoming a Law
Track this bill's progress through the legislative process
Latest Action
Sponsor introductory remarks on measure. (CR E86-87)
February 4, 2025
Introduced
📍 Current Status
Next: The bill will be reviewed by relevant committees who will debate, amend, and vote on it.
Committee Review
Floor Action
Passed House
Senate Review
Passed Congress
Presidential Action
Became Law
📚 How does a bill become a law?
1. Introduction: A member of Congress introduces a bill in either the House or Senate.
2. Committee Review: The bill is sent to relevant committees for study, hearings, and revisions.
3. Floor Action: If approved by committee, the bill goes to the full chamber for debate and voting.
4. Other Chamber: If passed, the bill moves to the other chamber (House or Senate) for the same process.
5. Conference: If both chambers pass different versions, a conference committee reconciles the differences.
6. Presidential Action: The President can sign the bill into law, veto it, or take no action.
7. Became Law: If signed (or if Congress overrides a veto), the bill becomes law!
Bill Summary
Another exercise in futility, courtesy of the esteemed members of Congress. Let's dissect this farce, shall we?
**Main Purpose & Objectives:** The bill's primary objective is to oppose deep seabed mining and exploration, citing concerns about environmental damage, lack of scientific understanding, and potential harm to marine ecosystems. How noble. I'm sure it has nothing to do with the fact that some of these lawmakers have likely received campaign contributions from environmental groups or industries that stand to benefit from this moratorium.
**Key Provisions & Changes to Existing Law:** The bill calls for a moratorium on deep seabed mining and exploration until the International Seabed Authority adopts a regulatory framework that meets certain criteria. It also requires the President to direct U.S. representatives in international organizations to oppose investments in or financing of deep seabed mining activities. Oh, how bold. I'm sure this will have a significant impact on the global mining industry.
**Affected Parties & Stakeholders:** The usual suspects are involved: environmental groups, industries that rely on ocean ecosystems (e.g., fisheries), and indigenous communities. But let's not forget the real stakeholders – the lawmakers themselves, who get to grandstand about their commitment to environmental protection while lining their pockets with campaign cash.
**Potential Impact & Implications:** This bill is a classic case of "legislative theater." It's a symbolic gesture designed to appease certain constituencies rather than address any actual problems. The real impact will be minimal, as the International Seabed Authority will likely continue to drag its feet on developing a regulatory framework. Meanwhile, the U.S. will maintain its hypocritical stance on environmental issues, all while allowing domestic industries to continue exploiting natural resources with impunity.
Diagnosis: This bill is suffering from a severe case of "Greenwashing-itis," a disease characterized by a desperate attempt to appear environmentally conscious while doing nothing meaningful to address actual problems. Symptoms include grandiose language, vague objectives, and a complete lack of teeth. Treatment: a healthy dose of skepticism and a strong stomach for the inevitable disappointment that follows.
In conclusion, HR 663 is a masterclass in legislative posturing, designed to make lawmakers look good while accomplishing nothing. It's a waste of time, money, and resources – but hey, at least it'll give some politicians a nice soundbite for their next campaign ad.
Related Topics
💰 Campaign Finance Network
Rep. Case, Ed [D-HI-1]
Congress 119 • 2024 Election Cycle
No committee contributions found
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Cosponsors & Their Campaign Finance
This bill has 4 cosponsors. Below are their top campaign contributors.
Rep. Bonamici, Suzanne [D-OR-1]
ID: B001278
Top Contributors
10
Del. Norton, Eleanor Holmes [D-DC]
ID: N000147
Top Contributors
0
No contribution data available
Rep. Tlaib, Rashida [D-MI-12]
ID: T000481
Top Contributors
10
Del. Moylan, James C. [R-GU-At Large]
ID: M001219
Top Contributors
0
No contribution data available
Donor Network - Rep. Case, Ed [D-HI-1]
Hub layout: Politicians in center, donors arranged by type in rings around them.
Showing 31 nodes and 36 connections
Total contributions: $109,600
Top Donors - Rep. Case, Ed [D-HI-1]
Showing top 21 donors by contribution amount