California’s shoreline and beaches are under threat, and they need your help. The Trump administration is attacking California’s Coastal Management Program – the state law that gives California the ability to weigh in on federal projects like offshore drilling, pipelines, and undersea cables. Please submit a comment supporting California’s coastal protections and telling the Trump administration to keep their hands off our coast!
What’s Happening
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has been directed by the Trump administration to conduct a review of California’s Coastal Management Plan (CCMP), which allows the state to weigh in on federal projects around offshore oil drilling, pipeline work, and spaceport infrastructure. It’s important to note that NOAA conducted a review of the CCMP in 2024 and concluded that the program was being effectively implemented, with no significant issues identified.
Why It Matters
This year marked the 50th anniversary of the California Coastal Act – fifty years during which California has established a multibillion dollar coastal economy while still prioritizing the protection of our coastline. Our booming coastal economy balanced with consistent coastal land protection is a clear indication that the current CCMP is working. It has provided a clear framework that strengthens federal-state collaboration and promotes transparency throughout the process. NOAA has already conducted its review and found no significant issues. The decision to initiate another review so soon raises serious concerns that it could be used to weaken existing coastal protections and undermine the Coastal Commission’s authority over offshore infrastructure.
In our own region, San Mateo County has a long history of opposing offshore drilling along its coastline and prioritizing the protection of its sensitive coastal environments. In 1986, San Mateo County voters passed Measure A, which established a local ban on onshore oil facilities associated with offshore oil drilling unless voters approve. In more recent years, the Board of Supervisors has repeatedly objected to offshore drilling and advocated against it. After decades of voicing concern, our community now faces yet another challenge that could place our coastline at risk, calling on us to renew our commitment to prohibiting offshore drilling and protecting the coast’s valuable resources.
What You Can Do
Use the form below to email NOAA telling them that you support California’s current coastal protections and oppose offshore oil drilling!
