The act passed to protect marine life along the Pacific Coast is the Marine Mammal Protection Act.

The Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) was enacted in 1972 to protect marine mammals in U.S. waters, including those along the Pacific Coast. This landmark legislation prohibits the "take" (harassment, hunting, capturing, or killing) of marine mammals such as whales, dolphins, and seals without a special permit. The MMPA addresses conservation needs critical to maintaining marine biodiversity, ensuring these species are preserved for ecological health and future generations. By safeguarding habitats and implementing restrictions, the act has played a significant role in the recovery of several marine populations along the Pacific Coast, aligning with environmental and conservation efforts throughout the region.