Congressmen Russell Fry and Mike Levin have introduced the Modernizing Access to Our Public Oceans (MAPOceans) Act, aimed at improving public access to data about U.S. waterways. The legislation seeks to digitize and provide real-time marine data via GPS and smartphone applications. This initiative is intended to enhance recreational experiences for boaters and anglers, ensure safe water activities, and bolster coastal economies.
The MAPOceans Act builds on previous legislation such as the MAPLand Act of 2022 and the MAPWaters Act, which passed in January 2025. The bill mandates the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to standardize and digitize public information about marine waters, making it readily accessible.
Key provisions of the bill include real-time updates on waterway accessibility, restrictions on motorized propulsion, fuel types, fishing regulations, geographic information system (GIS) data on navigation, bathymetric information, and depth charts. It also requires collaboration between the Department of Commerce and non-federal entities to maintain accurate information.
Congressman Fry emphasized that “the MAPOceans Act is a commonsense bill to help Americans enjoy our nation’s waters more safely.” Congressman Levin highlighted its importance for promoting long-term protection of natural resources while ensuring clear access to recreational areas.
In the Senate, Senators Ted Cruz and Angus King reintroduced the bill where it passed a committee vote in March 2025. The legislation has garnered support from various organizations including South Carolina Boating & Fishing Alliance, American Sportfishing Association, Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership among others.
Gettys Brannon from South Carolina Boating & Fishing Alliance stated that “the MAPOceans Act will bring clarity to chaos” by providing a single source for rules governing waterway use. Glenn Hughes from American Sportfishing Association noted that it would ease access to federal fishing regulations through modern tools.
Joel Pedersen from Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership praised the act for simplifying boating information by making regulations readily available. David Kennedy from BoatUS emphasized that accurate charts are essential safety tools for boaters.
Frank Hugelmeyer from NMMA commended Representatives Fry and Levin’s leadership in supporting recreational boating with this act designed to make waterways safer and more accessible.
For updates on Congressman Fry’s work in the Seventh District or his role in committees such as House Energy and Commerce Committee or House Judiciary Committee, constituents can follow his social media pages or visit fry.house.gov.
