Ocean Restoration Research and Development Act

HR 7797 establishes a federal pilot program under the Department of Energy to research ocean iron fertilization and other marine carbon dioxide removal (CDR) techniques, such as ocean alkalinity enhancement and seaweed cultivation. The program requires studying these methods' ability to remove atmospheric carbon, restore marine ecosystems, and support fisheries - while monitoring environmental impacts and avoiding harmful algal blooms. It allocates $33 million annually (2025-2030) for research, demonstration projects with private industry, and data sharing, with strict requirements for ecosystem monitoring and prioritizing open-ocean (pelagic) sites. The bill mandates a congressional report within one year and a scientific symposium within two years to assess findings and guide future policy.