The National Marine Fisheries Service has received applications from four researchers requesting permits to study marine mammals. These studies involve research on 58 different species, including endangered or threatened whales and seals, under the authority of laws like the Marine Mammal Protection Act and Endangered Species Act. The research activities include surveys, tagging, photo-identification, and biological sampling to understand the animals' behavior, health, and ecological roles. Public comments on these applications can be submitted until March 29, 2021.
Simple Explanation
The government is thinking about letting some scientists study ocean animals like whales and seals to learn about them and help protect them, but some people are worried about how they chose the scientists and if the studies will bother the animals too much.