A Senate panel approved a bipartisan bill last week that would create a federal program designed to protect coastal ecosystems that face intense pressure from development.

The Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee approved the measure (S 1142) by voice vote and without debate April 25.

It would direct the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to award grants to states to acquire and protect ecologically sensitive land near coastal areas and estuaries.

The bill, which was sponsored by Judd Gregg, R-N.H., and Frank R. Lautenberg, D-N.J., would authorize total spending of $210 million over five years. The federal government would be responsible for providing 75 percent of the total cost of each state grant.

Congress repeatedly has provided money to acquire and protect the lands, and the Bush administration has requested $15 million in the agency’s fiscal 2008 budget to preserve “high priority” coastal lands with historical, ecological or aesthetic value.

Supporters say the bill is needed to officially create a program that helps restore habitat for sea life, maintain water quality, provide nesting for coastal birds and make it easier to implement flood-control measures.

More money is needed, they argue, because development pressures within watershed areas have grown so intense and critical areas are being destroyed.

But it is unclear whether the supporters will be able to appease fiscal conservatives.

Last Congress, Republican Tom Coburn of Oklahoma thwarted Senate action on the bill when he objected to its matching requirements for federal funds.

Coburn’s aides said he is not ruling out blocking the bill again this year.