Grants for pilot projects and research on coastal natural infrastructure in cold climates

(a) In general During fiscal years 2026 and 2027, the Administrator shall award grants through the national sea grant college program, on a competitive basis, to eligible entities to support— (1) the implementation of coastal natural infrastructure pilot projects in cold climates, including the Arctic region of the United States, that will protect the coastline from storm surges, hazards caused by climate change, erosion, and permafrost melt; and (2) research on how effective coastal natural infrastructure projects can be in protecting coastlines in cold climates, including the Arctic region. (b) Eligibility To be eligible to receive a grant under subsection (a), an entity shall be a— (1) a State or local government; (2) an Indian Tribe; (3) an academic institution; (4) a nonprofit organization; or (5) a combination of entities described in paragraphs (1) through (4). (c) Authorization of appropriations There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $3,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2026 and 2027. (d) National sea grant college program defined In this section, the term national sea grant college program means the national sea grant college program maintained under section 204 of the National Sea Grant College Program Act (33 U.S.C. 1123).