Lutnick pledges to ensure NOAA meets biological-opinion deadlines, senators press on fisheries rules
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Summary
Senators asked the nominee whether he would ensure NOAA meets court-ordered deadlines to reissue biological opinions for offshore work and whether NOAA should be reorganized; the nominee said he would work to meet deadlines and had no interest in splitting NOAA's core functions.
Senators raised the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and its responsibilities under environmental review and species protections, including a court decision that vacated a NOAA biological opinion for offshore work in the Gulf and a May 21 deadline for a reissued opinion.
Why this matters: NOAA handles fisheries, weather, and ocean science programs that affect coastal economies, navigation and environmental protections. Delays or changes in biological opinions can have near-term impacts on offshore energy operations and fisheries management.
Sen. Ted Cruz and others described an issued court decision in Maryland that vacated a prior NOAA biological opinion and pressed the nominee to ensure NOAA would meet the May 21 deadline for reissuing a new biological opinion affecting Gulf operations. Lutnick said: "I will work hard to make sure they meet that deadline, and we do our job on time, rigorously, and thoughtfully, and we will, if I have anything to do with it, get it in."
Sen. Maria Cantwell asked whether Lutnick would keep NOAA intact and not transfer functions to other departments. Lutnick said he had "no interest in separating it" and supported maintaining NOAA's responsibilities within Commerce. Senators also raised vessel speed restrictions and other measures that NOAA might implement; Lutnick said such measures "need to be studied" and must balance protections and economic effects on fishermen.
Members from fishing states asked for consultation before NOAA took action affecting regional fisheries. Lutnick committed to consult with members' offices on matters "that matter to you" and to work to support commercial and subsistence fisheries while carrying out statutory responsibilities.