Cape and Islands Sen. Robert A. O’Leary was recognized with a legislative leadership award by Mass Audubon on Nov. 6 for his role in the passage of the Oceans Act, an ocean management plan to protect fisheries and sensitive marine habitats, as well as promote responsible development of renewable energy.

“Senator O’Leary‘s tenacious leadership in protecting the Bay State’s ocean waters and its critical habitat, as well as encouraging responsible offshore renewable energy, is truly admirable,” said Laura Johnson, president of Mass Audubon. “His steadfast effort will result in invigorating key marine habitats and fisheries.”

Mass Audubon also recognized House Speaker Salvatore F. DiMasi for his leadership for The Green Communities Act and Senate President Therese Murray, Sen. Bruce E. Tarr and Rep. Frank Israel Smizik for their work in passing the Oceans Act.