The Alaska State Legislature has passed a resolution supporting efforts at federal, state, and local levels to address the issue of marine debris affecting the state's extensive shorelines. Recognizing the critical importance of a clean ocean and shoreline for the health of local economies and communities, the resolution highlights the adverse effects of marine debris, including harm to wildlife, habitat destruction, and interference with fishing and tourism. It emphasizes that many coastal communities lack the resources necessary to manage debris effectively, despite significant cleanup efforts that have already removed millions of pounds of debris.

The resolution calls on the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to provide additional funding and to eliminate barriers that prevent tribes and rural communities from accessing these funds. It also urges the Alaska Congressional delegation to advocate for increased federal support for marine debris prevention, cleanup, and education initiatives. Furthermore, the resolution encourages collaboration among state agencies, coastal communities, tribes, nonprofit organizations, and the private sector to tackle the challenges posed by marine debris on Alaska's shorelines.