33 U.S.C. § 2283c — Technical assistance

(1) In general The Secretary may provide technical assistance to States and local governments to establish third-party mitigation instruments, including mitigation banks and in-lieu fee programs, that will help to target mitigation payments to high-priority ecosystem restoration actions. (2) Requirements In providing technical assistance under this section, the Secretary must give priority to States and local governments that have developed State, regional, or watershed-based plans identifying priority restoration actions. (3) Mitigation instruments The Secretary must seek to ensure any technical assistance provided under this section will support the establishment of mitigation instruments that will result in restoration of high-priority areas identified in the plans under paragraph (2).