PORTLAND, Maine (AP) — A proposal by a Georgia congressman to postpone changes to federal regulations designed to safeguard endangered whales has sparked backlash from environmental groups advocating for urgent protections.

Republican Rep. Buddy Carter's proposal involves a multi-year delay in implementing new vessel speed regulations put forth by the National Marine Fisheries Service. These regulations, which are in the final stages of approval, aim to create extended slow-speed zones along the East Coast and mandate reduced speeds for more ships.

The primary goal of these regulations is to protect the critically endangered North Atlantic right whale, whose population is estimated at fewer than 360 individuals and is highly susceptible to fatal ship strikes. Carter's bill seeks to halt any modifications or updates to the right whale vessel strike reduction rule until December 31, 2030.

Carter argues that the proposed changes would pose significant safety risks for recreational and pilot vessels and cause economic repercussions. His statement also noted that a hearing on the bill took place on June 27.

On Tuesday, various conservation organizations condemned the proposal as myopic, emphasizing the urgent need for protective measures. Gib Brogan, campaign director at Oceana, stated that the whales have long been vulnerable to ship collisions and fishing gear entanglements, and further delays would be detrimental to their survival.