US Ocean Regulator Faces Criticism Over Right Whale Protection Rule Changes

Proposed changes to longstanding vessel speed rules aim to reduce 'regulatory and economic burdens' despite concerns from environmental groups

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) plans to propose changes to rules designed to protect the endangered North Atlantic right whale, drawing criticism from environmental groups who cite the recent death of a young female whale. The proposed 'deregulatory-focused action' aims to 'reduce unnecessary regulatory and economic burdens' on industries like shipping, but conservationists argue the whales need more protections, not fewer.

Why it matters

The North Atlantic right whale is one of the most endangered large whale species, with fewer than 400 remaining. Collisions with ships and entanglement in fishing gear are leading causes of death for the whales. Environmental groups argue that weakening vessel speed rules could further endanger the species at a critical time.

The details

NOAA says the proposed rule changes will 'modernize' right whale protections by implementing new technologies and engineering approaches. However, details about the specific changes have not been released. The Biden administration had previously planned to expand slow zones and the classes of boats required to slow down to protect the whales, but withdrew the proposal due to the volume of public comments.

  • On February 10, 2026, a 3-year-old female right whale was confirmed dead off the coast of Virginia.
  • In the final days of the Biden administration, federal officials withdrew a proposal to expand right whale protections due to the scope and volume of public comments.

The players

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)

The U.S. government agency responsible for the management of the nation's oceans, major waterways, and atmosphere.

Defenders of Wildlife

A conservation group that has criticized NOAA's proposed changes to right whale protection rules.

National Marine Manufacturers Association

An industry group that has advocated for technology-based solutions over vessel speed restrictions to protect right whales.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

A notice of rulemaking about the proposed changes to the right whale protection rules has been listed on the U.S. Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs website, but no details have been released yet. NOAA has stated that more information about the new rules will be forthcoming.

The takeaway

This proposed rollback of right whale protections comes at a critical time for the endangered species, with the recent death of a young female whale highlighting the ongoing threats they face. Environmental groups argue that the whales need stronger safeguards, not weaker ones, to ensure their survival. The debate over balancing conservation and industry interests will likely continue as NOAA finalizes its new rules.