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May 28, 2008

Mass. governor signs landmark ocean resources bill

BOSTON -- Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick has signed a landmark bill that aims to better protect and manage the state's ocean resources.

The Oceans Act of 2008 is the first legislation of its kind in the nation. Patrick signed the bill today at the New England Aquarium.

The legislation comes as the state deals with numerous offshore projects, such as proposed liquified natural gas facilities.

The bill aims to ensure that decisions and permits about development in state-controlled waters -- which extend up to 3 miles from the coast -- conform to a single, science-based plan.

Patrick says the law will help balance the protection of traditional natural resources with new ones, such as renewable energy sources.

A 17-member Ocean Advisory Commission will draw up the plan, which must be in place by December 2009.

-- The Associated Press

Posted by Mike McKinney  at 4:52 PM | Permalink

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