H. Res. 989, introduced by Rep. Jay Inslee (D-WA) and Rep. Edward Markey (D-MA), called for the U.S. to adopt national policies to prevent ocean acidification, improve research on the impacts of acidifying seas and address the impacts of ocean acidification on marine ecosystems and economies.

 

While increasing carbon dioxide emissions are a key factor in global climate change, these emissions are also the cause of another crisis emerging in our oceans: acidification. As carbon dioxide enters the ocean, it combines with seawater to from carbonic acid, thereby increasing the acidity of the water and reducing the availibility of compounds which are vital to the development of the shells and skeletons of a variety of marine animals.

 

Addressing the causes and effects of ocean acidification is essential to the long term vialbility of ocean ecosystems.  H. Res. 989 encouraged the United States to take action on this critical issue that could have long term impacts on marine ecosystems and the coastal economies. LCV strongly encouraged support for the important resolution.

 

A 2/3 majority of those present and voting (274 in this case) is required for adoption under suspension of the rules. The Motion was rejected 241-170.  YES IS THE PRO-ENVIRONMENT VOTE.