The bill establishes the Alabama Seagrass Restoration Task Force, aimed at addressing the loss of seagrass in state marine waters and its ecological and economic impacts. The task force will consist of various members, including representatives from the Dauphin Island Sea Lab, the University of South Alabama, the House of Representatives, the Commissioner of Conservation and Natural Resources, and other appointed members from local commissions and environmental organizations. The task force is tasked with developing a 10-year Alabama Seagrass and Sea Oats Restoration Plan, which will recommend tools and technologies for restoring coastal seagrass ecosystems.
Additionally, the bill outlines the operational structure of the task force, including provisions for member appointments, compensation, and meeting schedules. The Dauphin Island Sea Lab will serve as the fiscal agent for the task force, managing appropriated funds and facilitating engagement with other marine science organizations. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2026, and includes provisions for the task force to report its progress annually to key state officials. The bill also includes the insertion of specific dates related to the legislative process, indicating when the Senate amended and passed the bill and when the House concurred with the Senate amendment.