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Stanford experts examine potential unintended implications of new National Ocean Policy

The federal government rescinded the Obama-era National Ocean Policy and replaced it with new policies intended to promote jobs and national security. Stanford experts examine potential unintended implications.

Fishing boats on the ocean
Nearly three-quarters of the 3 million ocean-related jobs in the United States are based in recreation and tourism – industries dependent on healthy seas. New federal ocean policies may have negative implications for these sectors.

A recreational sailboat in front of the Statue of Liberty, with signs of industry in the background.

Nearly three-quarters of the 3 million ocean-related jobs in the United States are based in recreation and tourism – industries dependent on healthy seas. New federal ocean policies may have negative implications for these sectors. (Image credit: Harvey Spears/Marine Photobank)

President Donald Trump recently rescinded the Obama-era National Ocean Policy, a comprehensive management strategy put in place in 2011 after the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. The repeal, which reversed restrictions on oil and gas drilling, was met with enthusiasm from oil and gas companies interested in offshore drilling, and from industry groups like the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. 

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