Origin & Functions

Formed in 1970, the Coastal States Organization was created to represent state governors in oceanic and coastal affairs. The Organization expresses the states' shared interests and concerns in interstate and federal marine resource programs and policies. It helps coastal states develop and implement national coastal policy and resolve national coastal issues, especially those related to climate change, coastal zone management, and funding. The Organization provides a nonpartisan forum for debate, discussion, and resolution of national coastal issues and problems. As an information clearinghouse, it also supplies coastal research and data analysis to Congress, member states, the media, and the general public.

Presently, the Organization consists of delegates appointed by the governors of thirty coastal states and five territories. Member states include Alabama, Alaska, California, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Texas, Virginia, Washington, and Wisconsin. Maryland has been a member since 1970.

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