; (2) $24,150,000 for fiscal year 2021; (3) $25,357,500 for fiscal year 2022; (4) $26,625,375 for fiscal year 2023; and (5) $27,956,644 for fiscal year 2024. . 9. Methane hydrate research amendments (a) In general Section 4(b) of the Methane Hydrate Research and Development Act of 2000 ( 30 U.S.C. 2003(b) ) is amended to read as follows: (b) Grants, contracts, cooperative agreements, interagency funds transfer agreements, and field work proposals (1) Assistance and coordination In carrying out the program of methane hydrate research and development authorized by this section, the Secretary may award grants, or enter into contracts or cooperative agreements to— (A) conduct research to identify the environmental, health, and safety impacts of methane hydrate development; (B) assess and develop technologies to mitigate environmental impacts of the exploration and commercial development of methane hydrates as an energy resource, including the use of seismic testing, and to reduce the public health and safety risks of drilling through methane hydrates; (C) conduct research to assess and mitigate the environmental impact of hydrate degassing (including natural degassing and degassing associated with commercial development)