Whitehouse pushes blue economy bill

WASHINGTON, D.C. (WLNE) — Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse joined colleagues in Washington this week to introduce legislation that calls for more investment in the nation’s ocean economy.

The Ocean Regional Opportunity and Innovation Act would create Ocean Innovation Clusters, which would enhance collaboration, promote innovation, and contribute to the equitable and sustainable growth of the “Blue Economy.”

The bill would create grants for the operations of “ocean clusters” and would provide funding for infrastructure development.

“The Ocean State is a leader in Blue Economy innovation,” Whitehouse said.  “Our bipartisan legislation will support the ocean economy’s continued growth and job creation by investing in coastal communities across the country.”

Whitehouse, who is a co-chair of the Senate Oceans Caucus, was joined by seven other Senators from both parties. Companion legislation was introduced in the House of Representatives.