Strengthening Access to Actionable Science for Lawmakers

Building on two decades of success in providing science advice to California’s government agencies, in early 2021, OST launched a new program to bring science directly to California lawmakers, expanding the impact of our work towards a healthy and productive coast and ocean.

Filling a Critical Gap

In the first year OST has established a reputation as an objective broker of science information and advice supporting representatives, committees, and their staff. We provided both proactive information delivery on issues the research community identified as critical, such as the kelp loss crisis, and engagement responsive to emerging policy priorities, such as offshore wind and blue carbon. Key to our success in building a vibrant relationship between science and lawmaking is providing policy-relevant and solution-focused advice.

Our services include:

• Rapid response to science topic requests from legislative staff and members, including science summary memos and connections to experts.
• Formal briefings, small-group briefings, and informal events on topics of interest.
• Technical feedback on bill ideas
• Proactive science delivery on issues reflecting the nexus between legislative priorities, emerging science, and actively unfolding executive policy issues.

If you are a member or staff with a question about ocean and coastal science, please contact Kevin Travis.