New Coastal Legislation Aims to Strengthen Resilience Against Climate Threats: Key Insights for Leaders in Environment and Energy

Marybeth Collins

A new law, the Resilient Coasts and Estuaries Act of 2025, has been introduced in Congress. This bipartisan effort, led by Rep. Mike Levin (D-CA-49) and including support from both Republicans and Democrats, aims to protect U.S. coastlines and estuaries facing serious threats from climate change and severe weather. The bill focuses on expanding conservation efforts, restoring damaged lands, and helping communities increase their resilience to environmental challenges.

The act would update the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, creating a dedicated program within the Department of Commerce to safeguard important cultural, recreational, and ecological areas from development and climate change. As extreme weather events grow in frequency, the urgency for such legislation intensifies. Recent floods and erosion along the U.S. coast illustrate the need for action. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reports that coastal flooding incidents have increased fivefold since 2000, with sea levels expected to rise by about 10 to 12 inches by 2050.

Key Features of the Act

• Land Protection and Restoration: The program prioritizes lands that offer critical ecological benefits and can act as natural buffers against storms.
• Support for Low-Income Communities: The act aims to help disadvantaged communities prepare for and recover from coastal hazards.
• Expanded Research: It establishes long-term monitoring programs to track changes in estuarine systems due to climate change.
• New Research Reserves: The bill plans to add at least five new reserves over the next eight years to increase geographic diversity across coastal states.

The Resilient Coasts and Estuaries Act responds to growing concerns about the economic and environmental burdens of coastal vulnerabilities. NOAA’s 2024 report on high-tide flooding revealed a record 180 high-tide flooding days last year, causing significant disruptions in transportation and local economies. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) also emphasizes that nature-based solutions, such as restoring wetlands, are among the most effective methods for adapting to climate change.

Rep. Levin stated, "Healthy estuarine and coastal ecosystems are frontline defenses against the growing threats posed by climate change. This legislation not only protects vital habitats but also helps safeguard the livelihoods of millions of Americans who live, work, and recreate along our shores."

Looking Ahead

As of April 2025, there’s wide bipartisan backing for the H.R. 2786 bill, with no documented opposition. Various environmental organizations, including the Coastal States Organization and the National Audubon Society, support it. However, some legislators have proposed budget cuts to coastal resilience funding, raising concerns. For instance, Rep. Bruce Westerman’s recent bill aims to rescind $700 million allocated to NOAA for resilience efforts.

Despite potential challenges, the diverse backing suggests the bill has a strong chance in a divided Congress. If passed, it would significantly enhance coastal protection policies, aligning efforts to preserve the environment with economic needs, all while addressing critical issues for U.S. coastal regions.

For more information, you can refer to NOAA’s reports on coastal flooding here.

Check out this related article: Explore Drammen’s Vision for a Zero-Emission Future by 2030: A Climate KIC Initiative

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