Mike Ezell

Congressman Mike Ezell (MS-04), Chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation, introduced legislation to modernize the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) of 1972, improve regulatory certainty, and ensure federal permitting decisions are based on the best available scientific data. The legislation would update requirements governing the incidental take of marine mammals during otherwise lawful activities, including maritime operations, infrastructure development, and other projects in coastal waters. By clarifying regulatory standards and streamlining the permitting process, the bill seeks to reduce unnecessary delays while maintaining protections for marine mammal populations. “Along the Mississippi Gulf Coast, our maritime industry, ports, shipyards, and coastal communities depend on the ability to carry out critical projects without unnecessary federal red tape,” Ezell said. “We can protect our marine resources while also ensuring that federal regulations are grounded in sound science and common sense. This legislation brings much-needed clarity and predictability to the permitting process, helping support American jobs, strengthen our maritime industry, and keep important projects moving forward.” "On behalf of the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources, I'm pleased to support these proposed modifications, which bring clarity and common sense reform to the Marine Mammal Protection Act without weakening its core function," General Spraggins, Director of the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources, said. "Replacing ambiguity with more explicit and defined standards will positively impact both the resources allocated for conservation related work and the marine resources in our waters." "The introduction of this legislation represents an important step toward ensuring that MMPA implementation is guided by clear statutory standards and the best available science," Dustin Van Liew, EnerGeo Alliance SVP Global Policy, said. "We commend Congressman Ezell for his leadership in introducing language that reflects years of energy industry engagement and policy development aimed at improving regulatory certainty while maintaining robust protections for marine mammals." Specifically, the legislation would: Modernize the definition of harassment: Update the Marine Mammal Protection Act's definition of harassment to focus on actual injury or disturbance rather than the potential for those impacts. Establish clearer scientific standards: Define a “negligible impact” based on whether an activity is reasonably likely to significantly and adversely affect the annual survival rate of a marine mammal species or stock. Streamline incidental take authorizations: Remove certain statutory limitations on the duration and number of marine mammals covered by incidental take authorizations, providing greater flexibility and predictability for project planning. Improve mitigation and monitoring requirements: Direct federal agencies to establish appropriate, practicable, and economically feasible conditions to minimize impacts on marine mammals, along with efficient monitoring and reporting requirements. Prevent unnecessary project disruptions: Ensure conditions imposed through specified incidental take authorizations do not alter the basic design, location, scope, duration, or timing of an otherwise lawful activity. Strengthen science-based decision-making: Require federal determinations under the Marine Mammal Protection Act to rely on the objective application of the best available scientific and commercial data, without precautionary assumptions that could bias those determinations. The Marine Mammal Protection Act plays an important role in conserving marine mammal populations. However, its permitting requirements can also affect maritime construction, port improvements, offshore operations, and other activities important to coastal economies. Ezell's legislation seeks to provide a more predictable regulatory framework that allows these activities to move forward while retaining federal oversight and requirements to minimize impacts on marine mammals. As Chairman of the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee and Vice Chairman of the Natural Resources Subcommittee on Water, Wildlife and Fisheries, Ezell has prioritized policies that support America's maritime capabilities, strengthen coastal economies, and promote responsible management of marine resources. ###

WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, Congressman Mike Ezell (MS-04) and Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01) introduced the bipartisan Regional Ocean Partnerships Reauthorization Act, legislation to strengthen cooperation among coastal states, federal agencies, and local stakeholders to address shared ocean and coastal challenges. Regional Ocean Partnerships bring together states and stakeholders to coordinate efforts involving coastal resilience, marine resources, ocean research, and maritime economic development. These partnerships allow regions to identify shared priorities and develop solutions tailored to their unique coastal environments and economies. “Along the Mississippi Gulf Coast, our economy and way of life depend on healthy coastal waters, strong fisheries, and a thriving maritime industry,” Ezell said. “Regional Ocean Partnerships give states and local stakeholders a seat at the table when it comes to protecting these resources and addressing the challenges facing our coastal communities. I'm proud to work with Congresswoman Bonamici to reauthorize this program, strengthen regional cooperation, and ensure these partnerships remain focused on delivering results without adding unnecessary federal regulations.” "The ocean, coasts, and Great Lakes face complex challenges, and the people who depend on them need tools to respond,” Bonamici said. “Regional Ocean Partnerships – like the West Coast Ocean Alliance – are proven solutions that convene state, tribal, local, and federal leaders to tackle shared problems with the science and resources they need. A healthy ocean and thriving coastal economies rely on collaboration. As Co-Chair of the Bipartisan House Oceans Caucus, I'm pleased to work with Congressman Ezell to strengthen these partnerships and equip the people who live and work along our coasts with what they need to plan for a more resilient future." The Regional Ocean Partnerships Reauthorization Act would extend federal support for these collaborative efforts through fiscal year 2031, helping participating states continue working together on shared coastal and marine priorities. Specifically, the legislation would: Reauthorize Regional Ocean Partnerships through FY2031, providing continued federal support for regional coordination and collaboration. Authorize approximately $10.6 million in FY2028, with incremental increases through FY2031 to support partnership activities. Strengthen accountability by requiring an additional report to Congress five years after enactment. Protect against regulatory overreach by prohibiting partnership funding from being used to develop regulatory proposals, model regulations, or compliance programs. For Mississippi, regional collaboration plays an important role in addressing issues affecting the Gulf of America, including coastal resilience, marine habitats, fisheries, and the maritime economy.

As Tropical Storm Isaias approaches the Gulf Coast, I encourage everyone in South Mississippi to stay alert, make necessary preparations, and closely monitor updates from MEMA and other local officials. While the storm’s track may shift, we know how quickly conditions can change. Please take this storm seriously, stay informed, and put the safety of your family and neighbors first.

I appreciated the opportunity to sit down with enlisted members of the Coast Guard for a firsthand look at what a day in their service looks like and the missions they carry out every day. As Chairman of the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee, hearing directly from the men and women on the front lines is critical to understanding the challenges they face and ensuring they have the resources and support they need. Thank you to everyone who joined us and shared their experiences. I’ll continue working in Congress to support the men and women of the Coast Guard and the important work they do for our nation.

Today, Congressman Mike Ezell (MS-04) announced that his Marine Fisheries Habitat Protection Act (H.R. 5745) passed the House Committee on Natural Resources, advancing the bipartisan legislation toward consideration by the full House. The Marine Fisheries Habitat Protection Act builds upon the existing Rigs to Reefs initiative by establishing a clearer process for converting certain decommissioned offshore oil and gas infrastructure into artificial reefs. The legislation creates procedures and timelines for the reefing process while maintaining safeguards for navigation, human safety, and the marine environment. "Along the Mississippi Gulf Coast, we know the tremendous value healthy fisheries provide to our economy, our communities, and our way of life,” Ezell said. “When offshore infrastructure reaches the end of its useful life, we should have a clear and responsible pathway to preserve the marine habitat that has developed around these structures when it makes sense to do so. This bill strengthens that process while maintaining important safeguards for safety, navigation, and our marine environment. I’m proud to see it advance out of committee and look forward to working with my colleagues to move it through the House.” “Retired offshore energy infrastructure can continue delivering value long after production ends," Chairman Westerman said. "H.R. 5745 formalizes the successful Rigs to Reefs initiative and creates clearer procedures for converting qualifying structures into artificial reefs. These structures provide valuable fish habitat, support marine ecosystems and create new opportunities for anglers and coastal communities. I commend Rep. Ezell for advancing a commonsense solution that strengthens an already successful program, supports American fisheries and puts existing inactive offshore infrastructure to productive use.” “I’m proud to see this bipartisan legislation advance to improve our Gulf ecosystem,”Carter said. “By streamlining the processes that allow retired offshore platforms to be transformed into artificial reefs, the Marine Fisheries Habitat Protection Act preserves critical habitat for Gulf marine life, supports our recreational and commercial fishing, and shows that energy policy and environmental stewardship don’t have to be at odds.” Offshore oil and gas structures can develop into established reef ecosystems that provide habitat for fish and other marine life. The existing Rigs to Reefs initiative allows certain decommissioned energy infrastructure to be converted into artificial reefs rather than completely removed. Ezell’s legislation would formalize and build upon that process in federal law, establish clearer timelines and procedures, recognize the role of state artificial reef programs, and provide greater accountability throughout the process. The bill preserves existing decommissioning options while creating an additional pathway for qualifying structures to be reefed in place. It also directs the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement to provide information on idle structures supporting established reef ecosystems and report on reefing applications and outcomes.

236 years of standing watch. 🇺🇸⚓ The U.S. Coast Guard has protected our nation, secured our maritime borders, and saved countless lives for more than two centuries. As Chairman of the Coast Guard & Maritime Transportation Subcommittee, I'm proud to support the men and women who proudly serve. Read my latest op-ed: https://t.co/lvDGrNnaan Semper Paratus!

Congressman Mike Ezell (MS-04), Chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation, recently published an opinion piece recognizing the 236th Anniversary of the United States Coast Guard and highlighting the service's enduring role in protecting America's maritime borders, supporting national security, and safeguarding Mississippi's Gulf Coast. In the op-ed, Ezell reflects on the Coast Guard's deep roots in Mississippi—from Coast Guard Air Station Biloxi's anti-submarine operations during World War II to lifesaving search and rescue missions following Hurricane Katrina. He also outlines the Coast Guard's modern missions, including securing the nation's maritime borders, combating illegal drug trafficking, protecting America's fisheries, and defending critical infrastructure. Ezell also discusses recent investments to modernize the Coast Guard, including new cutters, aircraft, facilities, and infrastructure that will strengthen the service for generations to come while supporting Mississippi's shipbuilding industry and workforce. "The Coast Guard has faithfully protected our nation for 236 years, and Mississippi has proudly been part of that legacy. As Chairman of the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee, I remain committed to ensuring these brave men and women have the resources they need to defend our nation, protect our waterways, and save lives. Their mission has never been more important, and neither has our commitment to supporting them." Ezell's full opinion piece, "236 Years of Standing Watch: Honoring the Coast Guard's Past and Investing in Their Future," is available here: Read the full op-ed.

Today, Congressman Mike Ezell (MS-04), Chairman of the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee, released the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Fiscal Year 2027 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), legislation that strengthens America's military, supports service members and their families, revitalizes the defense industrial base, and enhances national security priorities. The bill advances investments in military readiness, defense innovation, and quality of life for those who serve. "The world is more dangerous than it has been in decades, and Congress has a responsibility to ensure our military remains the strongest and most capable fighting force on the planet," Ezell said. "The FY2027 NDAA invests in our servicemembers, strengthens our national defense, rebuilds America's defense industrial base, and delivers the resources needed to deter our adversaries. I'm proud to support legislation that puts our troops first, strengthens military readiness, and helps ensure the United States remains prepared to meet the challenges of today and tomorrow." The FY2027 NDAA authorizes critical investments to strengthen America's defense by expanding domestic production capacity, supporting private sector innovation, and creating thousands of skilled manufacturing jobs. The legislation also advances more than 65 presidential defense priorities, restores critical military capabilities, strengthens nuclear deterrence and missile defense, and provides resources to counter threats from China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea. The legislation also prioritizes the well-being of America's military families by supporting a 5 to 7 percent pay raise for servicemembers while improving access to housing, education, and childcare. Additionally, the bill continues efforts to eliminate waste, fraud, and abuse within the Department of Defense by building on reforms enacted last year and establishing new authorities to improve accountability and achieve a clean audit. As Chairman of the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee, Ezell has consistently advocated for policies that strengthen America's maritime security, modernize the nation's military capabilities, and ensure the United States maintains the world's premier fighting force.

Last weekend, Congressman Mike Ezell (MS-04) joined U.S. Navy leaders, HII executives, the Neal family, and shipbuilders at Ingalls Shipbuilding on Saturday to celebrate the christening of the future USS George M. Neal (DDG 131), the fourth Flight III Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer to be built at Ingalls. The future USS George M. Neal is named in honor of Aviation Machinist's Mate Third Class George M. Neal, a Korean War veteran and recipient of the Navy Cross. Neal displayed extraordinary courage during a 1951 rescue mission after surviving a helicopter crash behind enemy lines, evading capture for nine days before becoming a prisoner of war. He was released in 1952 after enduring more than a year in captivity. “The christening of the future USS George M. Neal is a proud moment for Mississippi and our nation,” Ezell said. “George M. Neal’s courage, sacrifice, and service represent the very best of America, and it is fitting that this warship will carry his legacy for generations to come. I’m grateful to the hardworking men and women of Ingalls Shipbuilding whose craftsmanship strengthens our Navy, supports our Gulf Coast economy, and helps keep our nation safe.” “The future USS George M. Neal honors a legacy of extraordinary courage and sacrifice,” Under-Secretary of the Navy William Toti said. “As we christen this ship, we mark another step toward building the Navy our nation needs. Flight III destroyers are critical to our nation’s security, and we are proud to accept each one built by the skilled workforce at Ingalls." “As a company, HII does a lot of amazing things, but only people — human beings — build ships. They build ships with their hands, their minds and toughness. The people of Ingalls Shipbuilding are among the finest craftsmen and craftswomen on the face of the Earth,” Kastner said. “When she is delivered, DDG 131 will be the most powerful surface combatant in the world. She will be ready. She’ll be ready because the United States of America makes a conscious choice, generation after generation for now 250 years, to invest in U.S. Navy ships, built by Americans, in America.” “On behalf of my family, I express my deepest gratitude to the United States Navy, to the incredible honor, for this magnificent destroyer after my father, George Milton Neal,” Gray said. “We are forever grateful that his life of service, sacrifice and courage will be remembered through a ship that will one day defend our nation and carry his legacy throughout the world.” The traditional christening ceremony featured remarks from senior Navy officials, HII leadership, and the ship's sponsor, Kelley Neal Gray, daughter of the ship's namesake, who performed the ceremonial bottle-breaking against the ship's bow. As a member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and Chairman of the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee, Rep. Ezell emphasized the importance of Mississippi's shipbuilding industry to both the nation's defense and the Gulf Coast economy. DDG 131 is one of several Flight III Arleigh Burke-class destroyers currently under construction at Ingalls Shipbuilding. These next-generation warships feature the advanced AN/SPY-6(V)1 Air and Missile Defense Radar and the Aegis Baseline 10 Combat System, significantly enhancing the Navy's ability to counter evolving threats and maintain maritime dominance. Ingalls Shipbuilding has delivered 36 Arleigh Burke-class destroyers to the U.S. Navy and continues to play a critical role in building the future fleet that protects America's interests around the world.

Today, Congressman Mike Ezell (MS-04) announced that more than $27 million in Federal Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) grants have been awarded to two critical infrastructure projects in Mississippi's Fourth Congressional District. The grants include $22.1 million for the Mississippi Department of Transportation to expand truck parking and improve freight technology along the Interstate 10 corridor in Hancock County, as well as $5 million for the City of D'Iberville to improve the Mallett Road Multimodal Corridor in Harrison County. "These investments are a major win for South Mississippi and will strengthen our transportation infrastructure, improve public safety, and support continued economic growth across the Fourth District," Ezell said. "As a member of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, I understand the importance of keeping goods moving efficiently through our ports, highways, and freight corridors. These projects will help reduce congestion, improve safety for commercial drivers and the traveling public, and ensure our communities are well-positioned for future growth." The $22.1 million BUILD grant awarded to the Mississippi Department of Transportation will fund the Mississippi I-10 Freight Corridor TPAS and Truck Parking Expansion project at the Hancock County Welcome Center. The project will increase truck parking capacity from 20 spaces to approximately 74 while deploying advanced Truck Parking Availability System (TPAS) technology, dynamic parking availability signs, and fiber-optic infrastructure to improve freight movement and driver safety along one of the Gulf Coast's busiest transportation corridors. The $5 million BUILD grant awarded to the City of D'Iberville will support the Mallett Road Multimodal Corridor Improvements project. The project includes widening Mallett Road, improving intersections, enhancing traffic flow, upgrading utilities and traffic signals, constructing new turn lanes, and adding a six-foot sidewalk to improve mobility and safety for both motorists and pedestrians. "Mississippi's Gulf Coast continues to experience tremendous growth, and these investments will help ensure our infrastructure keeps pace with that progress," Ezell continued. "I appreciate the work of the Mississippi Department of Transportation, the City of D'Iberville, and our local leaders who helped make these projects possible. I will continue working to secure federal resources that improve the quality of life for our communities while strengthening Mississippi's economy." The BUILD Grant Program supports investments in surface transportation infrastructure that improve safety, mobility, economic competitiveness, and quality of life in communities across the country.

Happy Independence Day, America! 🇺🇸 Today, as we celebrate our nation's 250th birthday, we honor the courage of our Founding Fathers, the sacrifices of those who have defended our freedoms, and the enduring values that make America the greatest nation on Earth. May we never take for granted the blessings of liberty or forget that freedom is preserved through the service and sacrifice of generations of Americans. From the Gulf Coast to the Pine Belt, I wish you and your family a safe, joyful, and blessed Fourth of July. Happy Birthday, America! God bless Mississippi, and God bless the United States of America. 🇺🇸🎆

It was an honor to join folks from across the country on the National Mall for the Great American State Fair as we celebrate America’s 250th birthday. This milestone is a reminder of the courage, sacrifice, and enduring spirit that have made our nation the greatest in the world. As we look ahead to the next 250 years, may we continue to protect the freedoms and values that define the American dream. Happy 250th, America! 🇺🇸

Today, Congressman Mike Ezell (R-MS4) announced that 7 students from Mississippi’s Fourth Congressional District have accepted their appointments to one of the U.S. Military Service Academies. The students were nominated by Ezell and have received offers of appointment for the Class of 2030 at their respective academies. “It was a privilege to nominate these outstanding students from Mississippi’s Fourth District to attend our nation’s prestigious U.S. Service Academies,” Ezell said. “This year’s applicant pool was exceptionally competitive, reflecting the talent, character, and commitment of young people across Mississippi. I am proud to have played a small role in helping these students pursue their dreams of serving our country. As they begin this next chapter, I have no doubt they will represent Mississippi with honor and distinction, and I wish each of them continued success in the years ahead.” The following students received appointments and will start their collegiate careers very soon: U.S. Air Force Academy, Colorado Springs, Colorado Peton Broom Eli Hodges Kooper Kinsey Joshua Mayhue U.S. Military Academy, West Point, New York Brian Skrmetti U.S. Naval Academy, Annapolis, Maryland Morgan Ann McWilliams John Pierre Haydel

Today, Prime Minister @narendramodi made history in India as he now is the longest serving Prime Minister of India. Here on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, we recognize India as a key democratic partner and thank the Indian-American community for their contributions to our hospitals, universities, and businesses.

Mississippi deserves the same opportunity as Texas and Florida to manage the resources off our coast. This week, I spoke at @NatResources in support of my Offshore Parity Act, which would extend Mississippi’s offshore boundary from 3 nautical miles to 9 nautical miles and give our state greater authority over marine and fishery resources. This is about fairness, local control, and supporting the fishermen, coastal communities, and industries that depend on the Gulf of America.

Today, we honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. As we gather with family and friends this Memorial Day, let us never forget the heroes who gave their lives defending the freedoms we cherish every day. We remember them. We honor them. 🇺🇸 https://t.co/KqmrEJgA5N

Honored to stand alongside colleagues who, like me, once wore the badge and served on the front lines. During National Police Week, we remember the fallen and stand with the men and women who continue to protect our communities every day. Once you wear the badge, you never stop carrying that responsibility.

Congressman Mike Ezell (MS-04) recognized the outstanding artistic talent of students from across Mississippi’s Fourth District during this year’s Congressional Art Competition Reception, celebrating the creativity and hard work of local high school students. The annual competition provides students with an opportunity to showcase their artistic abilities, with the first-place winner’s artwork displayed in the U.S. Capitol for one year. “Mississippi is home to incredible talent, and this year’s competition once again proved that,” Ezell said. “It was an honor to recognize these students and celebrate their creativity, dedication, and hard work. Their artwork reflects not only their talent but also the unique perspectives and stories of our communities. I’m grateful to every student who submitted their work and to the families and educators who help foster that creativity. Investing in the arts is an investment in the next generation, and I look forward to seeing what these talented students accomplish in the future.” The 2026 Congressional Art Competition winners are: 1st Place: Zoey Margrave, Petal High School 2nd Place: Alicia Chavez, Petal High School 3rd Place: Kendyll King, Ocean Springs High School Background: Each spring, the Congressional Institute sponsors a nationwide high school art competition to recognize the artistic talents of the nation’s youth. The Congressional Art Competition began in 1982 and has had more than 650,000 high school students participate in the competition. ###

Congressman Mike Ezell (MS-04) welcomed the U.S. Navy’s announcement of a $283 million contract award to HII’s Ingalls Shipbuilding Division in Pascagoula, Mississippi, to support the development of the Navy’s next-generation guided missile frigate program. The contract will fund long-lead time material procurement, continued design adaptation work from the U.S. Coast Guard’s Legend-class National Security Cutter to the Navy’s FF(X) platform, and initial pre-construction activities for the first ship. “This is a major win for Mississippi and for our nation’s maritime strength,” Ezell said. “Ingalls Shipbuilding has long been a cornerstone of our shipbuilding industrial base, and this investment reinforces its critical role in delivering the next generation of naval capability. It also means good-paying jobs and continued economic growth for our region. Ensuring our Navy has the ships it needs to meet evolving threats starts with a strong industrial base. This program will not only strengthen our national defense, but it will also expand shipbuilding capacity across the country through a competitive, distributed approach.” The award represents a key step in accelerating the Navy’s frigate program, with plans to move forward with full construction of the first two ships later this year, pending congressional authorization and appropriations. The Navy has indicated it intends to transition to a competitive procurement process for future frigate orders, leveraging Ingalls’ leadership as a “lead yard” to deliver a build-ready design and support production across the broader industrial base.

Proud to see my legislation, H.R. 6995, pass the House today to designate the U.S. Post Office in Beaumont, Mississippi, in honor of Deputy Malone. I was honored to speak in support of this bill on the House floor ahead of its vote. Deputy Malone made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty, and this is a small way to ensure his service, bravery, and legacy are never forgotten.

America’s maritime comeback starts with rebuilding our industrial base. As Chairman of the Coast Guard & Maritime Transportation Subcommittee, I’m fighting to strengthen shipbuilding, grow our workforce, and keep the U.S. competitive. The Gulf Coast is ready to lead. https://t.co/kFgGx3sQGm

Great to be in Vancleave this weekend for Opening Day of Vancleave Youth Baseball. ⚾️ It was an honor to throw out the first pitch and spend some time with the players, families, coaches, and volunteers who make youth sports possible in our communities. Youth baseball teaches teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship — lessons that last a lifetime. Wishing all these young athletes a great season. Play ball!

Great to see @williamcareyu and the @UMMCnews recognized among the medical schools expanding nutrition training for future doctors. Strengthening nutrition education means better prevention, better care, and healthier communities. Proud to see Mississippi institutions helping lead the way. https://t.co/hQZxGO1590

My full statement on the U.S. and Israel's decisive action on the Iranian Regime: https://t.co/yl5MYLXpz3

Unlocking the full potential of aquaculture in American waters is a conversation we SHOULD be having. Expanding responsible aquaculture can strengthen our domestic seafood supply, reduce reliance on imports, and create jobs in coastal communities like those along Mississippi’s Gulf Coast. Smart policies that streamline permitting while protecting our marine resources can position the U.S. as a global leader in sustainable seafood production. Read more in my op-ed with @RepEdCase in @thehill ⬇️ https://t.co/h5MJbF85ZB