Bolstering Ecosystems Against Coastal Harm Act

The Bolstering Ecosystems Against Coastal Harm Act (HR 5490) expands the John H. Chafee Coastal Barrier Resources System by updating its map boundaries to include new coastal areas across 16 states, including Massachusetts, Rhode Island, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, and others. The bill requires property owners to disclose when a property is within the System to prospective buyers, creates exceptions for certain aquaculture operations and emergency actions, and mandates a report evaluating coastal ecosystem dynamics. It improves federal agency compliance with the Act and authorizes $1.962 million annually for fiscal years 2025-2031. This legislation directly affects coastal property owners, developers, and federal agencies involved in coastal management and funding decisions.