BOSTON (AP) – Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick has signed a landmark bill that aims to better protect and manage the state’s ocean resources.

The Oceans Act of 2008 is the first legislation of its kind in the nation. Patrick signed the bill Wednesday at the New England Aquarium.

The legislation comes as the Bay State is dealing with numerous offshore projects, such as proposed liquefied natural gas facilities.

The bill aims to ensure that decisions and permits about development in state-controlled waters – which extend up to three miles from the coast – conform to a single, science-based plan.

Patrick says the law will help balance the protection of traditional natural resources with new ones, such as renewable energy sources.

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