Reintroduction of the Sea Turtle Rescue Assistance and Rehabilitation Act

We applaud the reintroduction of the bicameral, bipartisan Sea Turtle Rescue Assistance and Rehabilitation Act (H.R. 347 & S. 843). We are committed to sea turtle conservation and educating the public about challenges facing these iconic threatened and endangered species. The National Aquarium is proud to be part of the nationwide network of organizations working with local, state and federal government partners to meet their responsibilities under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). This work ensures the timely response to sick, injured, or deceased stranded sea turtles while defraying federal government costs and limiting negative impacts to tourism and human health.

Sea turtle strandings are on the rise, as are expenses related to rescuing and caring for stranded individuals and releasing them back to their ocean home. The level of voluntary contribution from stranding network partners is not sustainable. We thank the bipartisan champions in the House and Senate for their leadership toward creating much-needed federal investment to support this important work.