COASTAL ZONE MANAGEMENT ACT (CZMA)

A 1972 federal law, amended in 1980, that provides guidance and financial assistance to voluntary state and local coastal management programs. Goals of the program include the protection of natural resources and the management of land development in coastal areas, along shorelines, and on shorelands (extending inland as far as a strong influence on the shore is expected). The state programs established under the CZMA vary widely in their approach and application.