The MARITIME Act directs the Secretary of State to report to Congress on U.S. efforts to help countries preserve their statehood and maritime zones as sea levels rise due to climate change. Rising oceans threaten Pacific Island nations and other low-lying coastal countries that depend on exclusive maritime rights for fishing, resources, and economic survival, potentially causing them to lose international standing if their territory becomes submerged. The bill establishes U.S. policy supporting the preservation of maritime zones established under international law, even as coastlines change, and commits the U.S. to promoting this approach with other nations through bilateral and multilateral channels. Within 120 days of enactment, the State Department must submit a comprehensive report assessing current U.S. diplomatic initiatives, identifying barriers to adoption of these policies, and listing countries and organizations that have already embraced similar measures. The legislation does not authorize new funding, but rather requires coordination among federal agencies to advance this diplomatic goal with Congress.
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