Whale CHARTS Act of 2024

The Whale CHARTS Act of 2024 requires the U.S. Commerce Secretary (via NOAA) to create detailed, high-resolution maps showing where baleen whales and sperm whales live, feed, calve, and migrate in U.S. waters. These maps must include current and future habitat data, using tools like satellite imagery and drones, and be made available in formats that integrate with ship navigation systems to help vessels avoid whale areas. The bill also mandates regular surveys of understudied whale populations and requires annual reports to Congress on progress. It authorizes $2 million yearly for mapping and $1 million for surveys through 2029, with funding to support research on knowledge gaps. The law directly affects commercial and recreational vessels through navigation system updates and marine researchers through data collection requirements.