Order Code IB10109
CRS Issue Brief for Congress
Received through the CRS Web
Fishery, Aquaculture, and Marine Mammal
Legislation in the 108th Congress
Updated November 23, 2004
Eugene H. Buck
Resources, Science, and Industry Division
Congressional Research Service ˜ The Library of Congress

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CONTENTS
SUMMARY
MOST RECENT DEVELOPMENTS
BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS
Commercial and Sport Fisheries: Background and Issues
Magnuson-Stevens Act Reauthorization
Pacific Salmon
Miscellaneous Issues
Aquaculture: Background and Issues
Miscellaneous Issues
Marine Mammals: Background and Issues
Marine Mammal Protection Act Reauthorization
Miscellaneous Issues
LEGISLATION

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Fishery, Aquaculture, and Marine Mammal Legislation
in the 108th Congress
SUMMARY
Fish and marine mammals are important
Aquaculture — the farming of fish,
resources in open ocean and nearshore coastal
shellfish, and other aquatic animals and plants
areas. Commercial and sport fishing are
in a controlled environment — is expanding
jointly managed by the federal government
rapidly, both in the United States and abroad.
and individual states. Many laws and regula-
In the United States, important species cul-
tions guide the management of these resources
tured include catfish, salmon, shellfish, and
by federal agencies.
trout. In the 108th Congress, P.L. 108-293
authorized interim assistance to aquaculture
Reauthorization of major legislation —
operators awaiting the recovery of damages
the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation
for oil spill injuries.
and Management Act (MSFCMA) and the
Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) —
Marine mammals are protected under the
will likely be on the agenda of the 108th Con-
MMPA, which authorizes restricted use
gress, since the authorization of appropriations
(“take”) of marine mammals. It addresses
for both laws expired at the end of FY1999.
specific situations of concern, such as dolphin
mortality, which is primarily associated with
In the 108th Congress, P.L. 108-7 created
the eastern tropical Pacific tuna fishery. In the
a West Coast Groundfish Fishing Capacity
108th Congress, P.L. 108-7 directed the De-
Reduction Program, directed NOAA Fisheries
partment of Commerce to evaluate and docu-
to establish a Regional Office for the Pacific
ment foreign compliance with the Interna-
Area, required increased legal and fiscal
tional Dolphin Conservation Program. P.L.
accountability for Pacific salmon recovery,
108-108 modified the MMPA to permit the
and provided $100 million in fishery disaster
importation of polar bears harvested prior to
funding. P.L. 108-11 directed the Secretary of
the enactment of final regulations. P.L. 108-
Agriculture to promulgate regulations allow-
136 modified the MMPA’s definition of
ing wild seafood to be certified or labeled as
harassment and provisions relating to taking
organic. P.L. 108-136 reauthorized the Sikes
marine mammals as they relate to military
Act through FY2008 and authorized certain
readiness activities and federal scientific
vessels for use as artificial reefs. P.L. 108-199
research. P.L. 108-293 required studies of
rationalized certain Alaska crab fisheries and
routing options to reduce vessel strikes on
instituted processor quotas. P.L. 108-219
North Atlantic right whales. Thus far, H.R.
reauthorized the Yukon River Salmon Act
2693 and H.R. 3316 are the only bills intro-
through FY2008. P.L. 108-287 made Depart-
duced to reauthorize and comprehensively
ment of Defense Buy American requirements
amend the MMPA; H.R. 2693 was reported by
permanently inapplicable to the procurement
the House Committee on Resources on April
of fish, shellfish, and seafood. P.L. 108-293
20, 2004.
increased consultation on fishery law enforce-
ment. Thus far, H.R. 4706, S. 482, and S.
2066 have been introduced to reauthorize and
comprehensively amend the MSFCMA.
Congressional Research Service ˜ The Library of Congress

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MOST RECENT DEVELOPMENTS
On November 21, 2004, the Senate passed S. 2488 (amended), proposing to authorize
a NOAA program to address marine debris, with particular emphasis on reducing and
preventing commercial fishing gear loss. On November 20, 2004, the House passed S. 3014,
proposing to amend and reauthorize the Harmful Algal Bloom and Hypoxia Research and
Control Act through FY2008; the Senate passed this measure on November 19, 2004. On
November 19, 2004, the Senate passed S. 2605, proposing to establish a Nez Perce Tribe
Water and Fisheries Fund (§8) and to establish a Salmon and Clearwater River Basins
Habitat Fund to protect and restore ESA-listed fish (§9). On November 19, 2004, the House
Committee on Resources reported H.R. 5104, proposing extensive amendments to the
MMPA and authorizing appropriations for the John H. Prescott Marine Mammal Rescue
Assistance Grant Program through FY2009. (Members and staff may request e-mail
notification of new CRS reports on marine and freshwater fisheries, aquaculture, and marine
mammal issues by contacting Gene Buck at gbuck@crs.loc.gov and requesting to be added
to his notification list.)
BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS
Commercial and Sport Fisheries:
Background and Issues
The Fishery Conservation and Management Act (FCMA) in 1976 (later the Magnuson-
Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act; see [http://www.nmfs.noaa.gov/sfa/
magact/]) ushered in a new era of federal marine fishery management. On March 1, 1977,
marine fishery resources within 200 miles of all U.S. coasts, but outside state jurisdiction,
came under federal jurisdiction, and a new regional management system began allocating
fishing rights, with priority to domestic enterprise. Today, individual states manage marine
fisheries in inshore and coastal waters (generally within 3 miles of the coast). Interstate
coordination occurs through three (Atlantic, Gulf, and Pacific) interstate marine fishery
commissions, created by congressionally-approved compacts. Beyond state waters, out to
200 miles, the federal government manages living resources for which regional councils
develop fishery management plans (FMPs) under the Magnuson-Stevens Act. Individual
states manage fishermen operating state-registered vessels under state regulations consistent
with any existing federal FMP when fishing in inshore state waters and, in the absence of a
federal FMP, wherever they fish. Primary federal management authority was vested in
NOAA Fisheries (formerly the National Marine Fisheries Service; see [http://www.nmfs.
noaa.gov/]) within the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) of the
Department of Commerce. The 200-mile fishery conservation zone was superseded by a
200-mile Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), proclaimed by President Reagan in 1983
(Presidential Proclamation 5030).
Magnuson-Stevens Act Reauthorization
Background. The Magnuson-Stevens Act (MSFCMA) was last reauthorized in 1996
by P.L. 104-297, the Sustainable Fisheries Act; authorization for appropriations expired on
September 30, 1999. The 1996 amendments established fish conservation initiatives
directing NOAA Fisheries and regional councils to protect essential fish habitat, minimize
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incidental fish bycatch, and restore overfished stocks. In addition, a host of modifications
to regional council management procedures and federal management policy were enacted.
Congressional Action. At issue for the 108th Congress will be the terms and
conditions of provisions designed to reauthorize and amend the MSFCMA to address the
concerns of various interests. Thus far, three bills, H.R. 4706, S. 482 and S. 2066, have been
introduced to comprehensively amend and reauthorize the MSFCMA. The Senate
Commerce Subcommittee on Oceans, Fisheries, and Coast Guard held hearings on S. 2066
on June 15 and September 14, 2004.
P.L. 108-7 included provisions creating a West Coast Groundfish Fishing Capacity
Reduction Program, directing NOAA Fisheries to establish a Regional Office for the Pacific
Area, and providing $100 million in fishery disaster funding. Section 801 (Division B) of
P.L. 108-199 directed the Secretary of Commerce to approve the Bering Sea and Aleutian
Islands crab rationalization program, including individual processor quota; §802 established
a Gulf of Alaska rockfish demonstration program; and §803 reopened an Aleutian Islands
pollock fishery. Also included in P.L. 108-199, §105 (Division H) prohibited the spending
of FY2004 funds to implement new regulations to reduce overfishing and rebuild fish stocks
off New England. Section §304 of P.L. 108-219 repealed the P.L. 108-199 prohibition on
FY2004 New England fisheries expenditures; in addition, §401 of P.L. 108-219 amended the
MFCMA to recognize the Pacific Albacore Treaty with Canada. Section 224 of P.L. 108-
293 requires the Coast Guard and NOAA to 1) improve consultations with each other and
with state and local authorities in coordinating fishery law enforcement and 2) submit annual
summary reports on fisheries law enforcement.
S. 2197 and §1825 of H.R. 3550 (as passed by the House (amended) on April 2, 2004)
would clarify the status of certain communities in the western Alaska community
development quota (CDQ) program. On May 19, 2004, the Senate passed H.R. 3550 after
amending it to incorporate the language of S. 1072 (excluding the provision on the CDQ
program); conference committee consideration of H.R. 3550 continues. Section 201 of H.R.
958 would reauthorize the Fisheries Survey Vessel Authorization Act of 2000 through
FY2006. The House Resources Subcommittee on Fisheries Conservation, Wildlife, and
Oceans held a hearing on H.R. 958 on March 27, 2003; the House Committee on Resources
reported this measure (amended) on November 21, 2003 (H.Rept. 108-400). On March 23,
2004, the House passed H.R. 958 (amended). On May 20, 2003, the Senate Commerce
Committee’s Subcommittee on Oceans, Fisheries, and Coast Guard held a hearing on the
North Pacific Fishery Management Council’s crab rationalization program. On October 22,
2003, the Senate Commerce Subcommittee on Oceans, Fisheries, and Coast Guard held an
oversight hearing on the condition of New England groundfish fisheries. On June 16, 2004,
the House Resources Subcommittee on Fisheries Conservation, Wildlife, and Oceans held
an oversight hearing on fishery data collection programs.
H.R. 1024 would establish a pelagic longline highly migratory species bycatch and
mortality reduction research program within NOAA Fisheries. H.R. 1286 would prohibit the
commercial harvesting of Atlantic striped bass in U.S. coastal waters and the EEZ. H.R.
1690 would prohibit certain bottom trawl gear to protect habitat and provide financial
assistance to fishermen for transition to different gear. S. 781 would modify membership of
the Gulf of Mexico Regional Council; H.R. 2679/S. 1463 of the New England Regional
Council; and S. 1624 of the Mid-Atlantic Regional Council. H.R. 2889 would direct the
Secretary of Commerce to study fishery observer data to map migratory patterns and
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delineate wintering and feeding areas of Atlantic striped bass. H.R. 2890, S. 2244, and Title
II of H.R. 4959 would restrict the federal government’s ability to close areas to recreational
fishing under the MSFCMA. S. 1953 would establish management areas to protect specific
deep sea corals. Title I of H.R. 4100 would provide grants to coastal states and counties for
cooperative fishery data collection, habitat conservation, enforcement, management, and
planning. S. 1106 and H.R. 2621 would establish national standards for fishing quota
systems. H.R. 3645 would modify the definition of “essential fish habitat” and modify
MSFCMA measures to rebuild overfished fisheries. For more information on reauthorization
issues likely to be discussed in the 108th Congress, see CRS Report RL30215, The
Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act: Reauthorization Issues.
Pacific Salmon
Background. Five salmon species spawn in Pacific drainages, after which juveniles
migrate to North Pacific ocean waters where they mature. Since these fish may cross several
state and national boundaries during their life span, management is complicated. Threats to
salmon include hydropower dams blocking rivers and creating reservoirs, sport and
commercial harvest, habitat modification by competing resource industries and human
development, and hatcheries seeking to supplement natural production but sometimes
unintentionally causing genetic or developmental concerns. In response to declining salmon
populations in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and California, 27 discrete population units have
been listed as endangered or threatened species under the Endangered Species Act.
Congressional Action. In the 108th Congress, provisions included in P.L. 108-7
required increased legal and fiscal accountability for Pacific salmon recovery. Section 303
of P.L. 108-219 reauthorized the Yukon River Salmon Act through FY2008. Section 4021
of H.R. 2557 would require a feasibility study of fish passage improvements in Oregon; this
measure was reported (amended, with the fish passage language in §4024) by the Committee
on Transportation on September 5, 2003 (H.Rept. 108-265), and passed by the House
(amended, with the fish passage language in §4027) on September 24, 2003. H.R. 1945
would authorize the Secretary of Commerce to financially assist salmon habitat restoration
projects; the House Committee on Resources reported this bill (amended) on September 16,
2003 (H.Rept. 108-272). S. 1308 would authorize the Bureau of Reclamation and NOAA
Fisheries to implement a recent court decision relating to the Savage Rapids Dam, Oregon;
the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources Subcommittee on Water and Power held
a hearing on this bill on October 15, 2003. On June 4, 2003, the Senate Committee on Indian
Affairs held a hearing on the impacts on tribal fish and wildlife management programs in the
Pacific Northwest. On June 24, 2003, the Senate Committee on Environment and Public
Works held a hearing to examine implementation of NOAA Fisheries’ 2000 Biological
Opinion for listed anadromous fish with regard to operation of the Federal Columbia River
Power System.
H.R. 1097 would direct the Secretary of Commerce to seek scientific analysis of federal
efforts to restore Columbia River Basin salmon and steelhead listed under the ESA. H.R.
1604 would increase the funding authorized for temperature control devices at Folsom Dam,
California. H.R. 1760 would establish water conservation and habitat restoration programs
in the Klamath River basin and provide emergency disaster assistance to those who suffered
economic harm from the Klamath Basin fish kill of 2002. H.R. 1753/S. 1438 would
compensate the Spokane Tribe for the loss of salmon fisheries related to the construction of
Grand Coulee Dam; the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs reported S. 1438 (amended) on
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October 8, 2004 (S.Rept. 108-397). Section 103 of S. 1555/H.R. 3327 would designate
“salmon restoration areas” in northern California. Section 9 of S. 2605/H.R. 4981 would
establish a Salmon and Clearwater River Basins Habitat Fund to protect and restore ESA-
listed fish; the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs reported S. 2605 (amended) on October
7, 2004 (S.Rept. 108-389), and the Senate passed this bill on November 19, 2004. S. 2788
would reauthorize and amend the Pacific Salmon Coastal Recovery Fund. For background
on these issues, see CRS Report 98-666 ENR, Pacific Salmon and Anadromous Trout:
Management Under the Endangered Species Act and CRS Report RL31546, The Endangered
Species Act and Science: The Case of Pacific Salmon.
Miscellaneous Issues
Seafood Labeling. Section 2105 of P.L. 108-11 amended the Organic Foods
Production Act of 1990 to direct the Secretary of Agriculture to promulgate regulations
allowing wild seafood to be certified or labeled as organic. H.R. 4576 would amend the
Agricultural Marketing Act to make country-of-origin labeling voluntary; this measure was
ordered reported (amended) by the House Committee on Agriculture on July 22, 2004. On
October 1, 2003, the House Agriculture Subcommittee on Livestock and Horticulture held
an oversight hearing to review mandatory country-of-origin labeling. H.R. 3083 would
modify the country-of-origin labeling requirements for wild and farm-raised fish.
Trade. Section 8118 of P.L. 108-87 made Department of Defense Buy American
requirements inapplicable to the procurement of fish, shellfish, or seafood products during
FY2004; §8118 of P.L. 108-287 made this provision permanent. H.R. 155/H.R. 2406
proposes to modify U.S. subsidies beneficial to certain foreign competitors with the domestic
shrimp industry. Section 3 of S. 1110/S. 1299/H.R. 2308/H.R. 5030 and §102 of S. 1884
would authorize a program for trade adjustment assistance to commercial fishermen, fish
processors, and fishing communities. For background on the current shrimp trade dispute,
see CRS Report RS21776, Shrimp Trade Dispute: Chronology.
Recreational Fishing. Section 1013 of P.L. 108-136 authorized the transfer of
vessels stricken from the Naval Vessel Register for use as artificial reefs. Provisions in P.L.
108-357 reduce the excise tax on fishing tackle boxes from 10% to 3% (§333) and repeal the
excise tax on sonar fish finders (§334).
Section 7501 of H.R. 2088/S. 1072 would extend the current allocation of funding for
the Sport Fish Restoration Program through FY2009; §9007 would extend the transfer of
small-engine fuel taxes to the Sport Fish Restoration Account through FY2011. The
Committee on Environment and Public Works Subcommittee on Transportation and
Infrastructure held a hearing on S. 1072 on May 20, 2003; the Committee on Commerce,
Science, and Transportation’s Subcommittee on Competition, Foreign Commerce, and
Infrastructure held a hearing on this bill on May 22, 2003. On January 9, 2004, S. 1072 was
reported by the Committee on Environment and Public Works (S.Rept. 108-222), amended
to comprehensively amend and reauthorize the Sport Fish Restoration Program in Title IV.
On February 12, 2004, the Senate passed S. 1072 (amended to place the Sport Fish Program
language in Title V, Subtitle E, Part II). Section 9101 of H.R. 3550 (as passed by the House
(amended) on April 2, 2004) would extend the current allocation of funding for the Sport
Fish Restoration Program through FY2009 and extend the transfer of small-engine fuel taxes
to the Sport Fish Restoration Account through FY2011. On May 19, 2004, the Senate passed
H.R. 3550 after amending it to incorporate the language of S. 1072. Conference committee
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consideration of H.R. 3550 continues. S. 1804 and Title V of S. 1978 would
comprehensively amend and reauthorize the Sport Fish Restoration Program through
FY2009; S. 1978 was reported by the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation
on November 25, 2003 (S.Rept. 108-215).
H.Res. 30 would express concern for continued U.S. recreational fishing access to
waters near the Revillagigedo Islands of Mexico; the House Resources Subcommittee on
Fisheries Conservation, Wildlife, and Oceans held a hearing on this bill on May 22, 2003,
and it was reported on July 9, 2003 (H.Rept. 108-194). H.Res. 362/S.Res. 279 would
recognize the importance and contribution of fishing and other outdoor sports to society; the
House passed H.Res. 362 on September 23, 2003.
H.R. 2890, S. 2244, and Title II of H.R. 4959 would limit the federal government’s
ability to close areas to recreational fishing under the MSFCMA. H.R. 3482/S. 1840 would
establish a grant program to encourage private landowners to provide public access for
fishing and other outdoor recreation. H.Con.Res. 382 would affirm that the intent of
Congress was to allow hunting and fishing on public lands within the National Wildlife
Refuge System. Title II of S. 1962 would create a Sport Fish Restoration Trust Fund and
modify the excise tax on certain sport fishing equipment. H.R. 2839 would amend the
Internal Revenue Code to modify the transfer of motor fuel excise taxes attributable to
motorboat and small engine fuels into the Aquatic Resources Trust Fund.
Habitat on Military Lands. Section 311 of P.L. 108-136 reauthorized Title I of the
Sikes Act through FY2008.
Invasive Species. P.L. 108-137 funded the Army Corps of Engineers’ preparation
of an environmental impact statement for introducing non-native oysters into Chesapeake
Bay, with authorization for a scientific advisory body to assist the review. P.L. 108-412 did
not include provisions initially proposed that would have excluded state funding for noxious
aquatic weed control from a noxious weed control program. Section 1006 of H.R. 2557
would direct the Army Corps of Engineers to study several projects to address invasive
aquatic plant situations; this measure was reported (amended) by the Committee on
Transportation on September 5, 2003 (H.Rept. 108-265), and passed by the House (amended)
on September 24, 2003. H.R. 1081 would establish marine and freshwater research,
development, and demonstration programs to prevent, control, and eradicate invasive
species; the House Committee on Science reported this bill (amended) on October 20, 2003
(H.Rept. 108-324, Part I). S. 525 would amend and reauthorize NANPCA through FY2008
and establish marine and freshwater research, development, and demonstration programs;
the Senate Environment and Public Works Subcommittee on Fisheries, Wildlife, and Water
held a hearing on June 17, 2003. On April 29, 2003, the House Resources Subcommittee on
Fisheries Conservation, Wildlife, and Oceans and Subcommittee on National Parks,
Recreation, and Public Lands held a joint oversight hearing on invasive species. On October
14, 2003, the House Resources Subcommittee on Fisheries Conservation, Wildlife, and
Oceans held an oversight field hearing in Annapolis, MD, on efforts to introduce non-native
oysters to Chesapeake Bay.
H.R. 266 and S. 536 propose to authorize the National Invasive Species Council. H.R.
989 would require regulations to assure that vessels entering the Great Lakes have adequate
ballast water treatment. H.R. 1080 would reauthorize the Nonindigenous Aquatic Nuisance
Prevention and Control Act (NANPCA) through FY2008 and amend this act to expand
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programs to address aquatic invasive species concerns. H.R. 2310 would establish an
incentive grant program to control and eradicate invasive species. H.R. 3122 would direct
the Coast Guard to promulgate regulations setting certain ballast water treatment standards
for vessel entry into the Great Lakes. S. 1398 and H.R. 2720 would authorize funding for
invasive species control in the Great Lakes. H.Con.Res. 276/S.Con.Res. 69 would require
that any agreement signed by the United States not preclude measures to combat invasive
species. Section 12 of H.R. 4101/S. 2271 would express the sense of Congress that strong,
mandatory ballast water standards be enacted. Title I of H.R. 4100 would provide grants to
coastal states and counties for invasive species identification and control. S. 2490 would
amend NANPCA to promote the development and adoption of new ballast water treatment
technologies and standards. For additional background on ballast water management, see
CRS Report RL32344, Ballast Water Management to Combat Invasive Species.
Tuna. Section 242 of P.L. 108-188 permits duty-free import of specified amounts of
canned tuna to the United States from the Federated States of Micronesia and the Republic
of the Marshall Islands, while §104(e)(8)(D) requires a report analyzing the effects of this
action on American Samoa’s economy. P.L. 108-219 amends the MFCMA to recognize the
Pacific Albacore Treaty with Canada and modifies the South Pacific Tuna Treaty Act to
provide for longlining. Section 2004(f) of S. 671 and §3604(f) of H.R. 3521 would amend
the Andean Trade Preference Act to modify the definition of “United States vessel” relative
to tuna harvesting. S. 671 was reported by the Committee on Finance on March 20, 2003
(S.Rept. 108-28), while H.R. 3521 was passed by the House on November 20, 2003. On
March 4, 2004, the Senate incorporated the language of S. 671 into H.R. 1047 by amendment
and passed the amended H.R. 1047; the conference agreement (H.Rept. 108-771) included
the modified definition (§2004(e)). On October 30, 2003, the House Resources
Subcommittee on Fisheries Conservation, Wildlife, and Oceans held an oversight hearing
on the upcoming meeting of the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic
Tunas.
H.R. 1424 would extend the American Samoa Possession Tax Credit Act, beneficial to
American Samoan tuna canneries, through January 1, 2016. S. 130 proposes to amend the
labeling requirements for “dolphin-safe tuna” in the Dolphin Protection Consumer
Information Act. S. 1739/S. 1782/H.R. 3620 would modify the duty treatment of tuna to
specifically identify tuna packed in pouches, and would eliminate duties on certain tuna
products imported from cited ASEAN nations.
Indian Claims and Fishing Rights. Title III of P.L. 108-204 established the
Quinault Permanent Fisheries Fund and other accounts to manage funds received from
claims settlement. S. 2301 would modify how Indian fishery resources are managed; the
Senate Committee on Indian Affairs held a hearing on this measure on April 29, 2004. On
July 21, 2004, the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs ordered S. 2301 reported (amended).
On June 4, 2003, the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs held a hearing on the impacts on
tribal fish and wildlife management programs in the Pacific Northwest. Section 201 of H.R.
1661 would modify the treatment of income from the exercise of Indian fishing rights
(detailed in §7873 of the Internal Revenue Code), for purposes of calculating earned income
tax credit. Section 8 of S. 2605/H.R. 4981 would establish a Nez Perce Tribe Water and
Fisheries Fund; the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs reported S. 2605 (amended) on
October 7, 2004 (S.Rept. 108-389), and the Senate passed this measure on November 19,
2004. Section 3(c) of S. 2878 would require the Secretaries of the Interior and Agriculture
to conclude a stewardship agreement with the Yoruk Tribe for management of Klamath
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River basin fisheries; §9 would specify representation of the Yoruk Tribe on the Klamath
Fishery Management Council.
International Fisheries. P.L. 108-219 extends the reimbursement period under the
Fishermen’s Protective Act through FY2008, recognizes the Pacific Albacore Treaty with
Canada in the MFCMA, and modifies the South Pacific Tuna Treaty Act to provide for
longlining. Section 114(4) of H.R. 1950 would authorize $20,043,000 for “International
Fisheries Commissions” for both FY2004 and FY2005; the House Committee on
International Relations reported (amended) H.R. 1950 (H.Rept. 108-105, Part I) on May 16,
2003; the Committee on Armed Services (amended) on June 30, 2003 (H.Rept. 108-105, Part
III); and the Committee on Energy and Commerce (amended) on July 11, 2003 (H.Rept. 108-
105, Part IV). H.R. 1950 passed the House on July 16, 2003. S. 2144 would authorize
$20,800,000 for “International Fisheries Commissions” for FY2005; the Senate Committee
on Foreign Relations reported this bill on March 18, 2004 (S.Rept. 108-248). On April 24,
2003, the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations reported S. 925 (S.Rept. 108-39).
H.Con.Res. 268 would express the sense of the Congress regarding sanctions on nations that
undermine the effectiveness of conservation and management measures for Atlantic highly
migratory species, including marlin; the House Resources Subcommittee on Fisheries
Conservation, Wildlife, and Oceans held a hearing on September 11, 2003. The full
committee reported (H.Rept. 108-327) and the House passed H.Con.Res. 268 on October 28,
2003. On June 12, 2003, the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation
held a hearing on global overfishing and international fishery management.
Section 103(4) of S. 790 and §104(4) of S. 925 would authorize an appropriation of
$20,043,000 for “International Fisheries Commissions” for FY2004. S. 790 would authorize
such sums as may be necessary for “International Fisheries Commissions” for FY2005. S.
1861 would establish a framework for legislative and executive consideration of unilateral
sanctions against foreign nations.
Seafood Safety. P.L. 108-282 includes §203, requiring food labels to identify
products containing fish and crustacean shellfish for their allergen potential. S. 366, S. 485,
and H.R. 999 would amend the Clean Air Act to direct EPA to reduce mercury emissions
from electricity generating facilities. On April 8, 2003, the Senate Environment and Public
Works Subcommittee on Clean Air, Climate Change, and Nuclear Safety held a hearing on
S. 485; additional hearings were held on May 8 and June 5, 2003. S. 1218 would increase
coordination of interagency ocean science programs, including U.S. research and monitoring
programs related to seafood safety and the role of oceans in human health; the Committee
on Commerce, Science, and Transportation reported this bill (amended) on November 19,
2003 (S.Rept. 108-203). The Senate passed S. 1218 (amended) on March 24, 2004.
Section 12 of S. 484 would amend the Clean Air Act to evaluate public advisories
concerning mercury-contaminated fish. S. 1939/H.R. 4762 would require EPA and FDA to
develop joint fish consumption advisories on methylmercury and require that public notice
on the effects of mercury exposure be available at businesses that sell fish and seafood where
the potential for mercury exposure exists. Section 5 of S. 506/H.R. 1551 would require daily
inspection of seafood commodities covered by NOAA Fisheries inspection programs that are
used in Department of Agricultural school food programs. Section 2 of H.R. 1495 would
require labels warning of increased risk of illness from raw or partially cooked fish and
shellfish; §3 of this same bill would require labeling to identify fish and shellfish that have
been frozen. Section 4(c) of H.R. 1624 would amend §308 of the Federal Water Pollution
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Control Act to increase public information requirements for notification of waters where fish
or shellfish contamination is a concern. S. 1844 would promote research to clarify the
contribution of U.S. electricity generation to mercury contamination in fish and seafood.
Section 102 of H.R. 5259/S. 2910 would consolidate all food safety and inspection programs,
including seafood inspection.
Seafood Processing. Section 14006 of P.L. 108-287 makes the numerical limitation
on visas inapplicable to nonimmigrant aliens employed in fish roe processing. Section
203(a)(1) of H.R. 3139 would require the Labor Secretary to prohibit minors from
employment in seafood processing.
Fishing Vessels. Section 418(a) of P.L. 108-293 extends the authorization for the
Commercial Fishing Industry Vessel Safety Advisory Committee through FY2010. H.R.
4319 would complete codification of Title 46, U.S. Code, including fishery endorsements
for vessels and financial assistance; this bill was reported (amended) September 17, 2004,
by the House Committee on Judiciary (H.Rept. 108-690), and passed by the House
(amended) on September 28, 2004.
Oil Spill Damage. Section 708 of P.L. 108-293 amends the Oil Pollution Act of 1990
to authorize interim assistance to fishermen awaiting the recovery of damages for injuries
from oil spills.
Tax Provisions. Section 314 of P.L. 108-357 extends income averaging to
commercial fishermen. Section 108 of S. 256/S. 272/S. 476 would amend the Internal
Revenue Code to provide tax incentives for participation in the Fish and Wildlife Services’
“Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program.” On February 27, 2003, S. 476 was reported,
amended (S.Rept. 108-11); on April 9, 2003, the Senate passed this measure (amended). S.
487/H.R. 2973 would amend the Internal Revenue Code to provide a business credit against
income for the purchase of fishing vessel safety equipment. H.R. 927, §2 of H.R. 5169/S.
665, S. 2456, and §119 of S. 2761 would amend the Internal Revenue Code to allow
commercial fishermen to establish tax-deferred Farm and Ranch Risk Management Accounts
to shelter a portion of fishery income.
Hydropower. Section 102(a)(3)(H) of H.R. 238 and §101(a)(7) of H.R. 1343 would
set a goal for Department of Energy hydropower programs to decrease damage to fish and
aquatic ecosystems; H.R. 238 was reported (amended) by the House Committee on Science
on May 22, 2003 (H.Rept. 108-128, Part 1). H.R. 1013, §13001 of H.R. 6, §3001 of H.R.
1644, §511 of S. 14/S. 1005, and §231 of S. 2095/H.R. 4503 would allow federal
hydropower licensees to propose alternatives to fishways required by the Federal Energy
Regulatory Commission as long as they would not diminish fish passage. On April 8, 2003,
the House Committee on Energy and Commerce reported H.R. 1644, amended (H.Rept. 108-
65, Part I). On April 11, 2003, the House passed H.R. 6, as amended. On May 6, 2003, the
Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources reported S. 1005 (S.Rept. 108-43). On
July 31, 2003, the Senate passed H.R. 6 (amended) with fishway language in §301 and
language to set a goal for Department of Energy hydropower programs to decrease damage
to fish and aquatic ecosystems in §1221(b)(8). The conference report on H.R. 6 (H.Rept.
108-375, November 18, 2003) retained the fishway provisions in §231; the House agreed to
the conference report (November 18, 2003), but the Senate has not taken action. The House
passed H.R. 4503 on June 15, 2004. S. 1307 would authorize the Secretary of the Interior,
acting through the Bureau of Reclamation, to assist in implementing fish passage and
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screening facilities at non-federal water projects; the Senate Energy and Natural Resources
Subcommittee on Water and Power held a hearing on S. 1307 on October 15, 2003; and the
committee reported this measure (amended) on March 29, 2004 (S.Rept. 108-249). On
September 15, 2004, the Senate passed S. 1307 (amended). Section 201 of S. 2188 and
§1011 of S. 2554/S. 2773 would amend the Water Resources Development Act of 1986 to
require full mitigation for aquatic resource losses at Corps of Engineers projects. On June
23, 2004, the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works ordered S. 2554 reported
(amended); this committee reported S. 2773 on August 25, 2004 (S.Rept. 108-314).
Hypoxia and Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs). S. 247, S. 937, and H.R. 1856
would amend and reauthorize the Harmful Algal Bloom and Hypoxia Research and Control
Act through FY2006; S. 3014 would amend and reauthorize this act through FY2008. The
Senate passed S. 3014 on November 19, 2004, and the House passed this measure on
November 20, 2004. On March 13, 2003, the House Science Subcommittee on the
Environment, Technology, and Standards held an oversight hearing on HABs and hypoxia
research. On October 24, 2003, the House Committee on Science reported H.R. 1856,
amended (H.Rept. 108-326, Part I). On February 26, 2004, the House Resources
Subcommittee on Fisheries Conservation, Wildlife, and Oceans held a hearing on H.R. 1856.
The House passed H.R. 1856 (amended) on July 7, 2004. On August 26, 2003, the Senate
Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation reported S. 247 (S.Rept. 108-125);
the Senate passed this measure (amended) on October 28, 2003. S. 1218, as reported by the
Senate Commerce Committee (S.Rept. 108-203), identifies hypoxia and HABs as important
in addressing the role of oceans in human health. The Senate passed S. 1218 (amended) on
March 24, 2004. Section 10 of H.R. 4686 would establish a Gulf hypoxia research,
coordination, and monitoring program for the Mississippi River Basin.
Assistance. On May 1, 2003, the House Committee on Education and the Workforce
reported H.R. 1261 (amended), in which §104(b)(2) would amend the Workforce Investment
Act to identify dislocated fishermen as individuals that states would serve in relation to
employment and training needs (H.Rept. 108-82); this measure was passed (amended) by the
House on May 8, 2003. On November 14, 2003, the Senate amended H.R. 1261 to substitute
the language of S. 1627, which excluded the displaced fishermen provision, and passed the
amended H.R. 1261; a conference has been requested on H.R. 1261. H.R. 4210 would
amend the Farm Credit Act to assist businesses that serve commercial fishermen.
Health Care. Section 2 of H.R. 660/H.R. 4281, §402 of H.R. 3423, S. 545, and §202
of S. 2767 would amend the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 to authorize
fishing industry associations to provide health care plans for association members. On
March 13, 2003, the House Committee on Education’s Subcommittee on Employer-
Employee Relations held a hearing on H.R. 660; this measure was reported (amended) on
June 16, 2003 (H.Rept. 108-156), and passed by the House (amended) on June 19, 2003. On
May 13, 2004, the language of H.R. 4281 was incorporated into H.R. 4279, and H.R. 4279,
as amended, passed the House.
Bankruptcy. H.R. 343, §1007 of H.R. 975, and §8 of S. 2004 would protect family
fishermen under Chapter 12 of bankruptcy laws. The House Judiciary Subcommittee on
Commercial and Administrative Law held a hearing on H.R. 975 on March 4, 2003, and
reported this measure (amended) on March 18, 2003 (H.Rept. 108-40, Part I). On March 19,
2003, the House passed H.R. 975, as amended. On January 28, 2004, the House passed S.
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1920, amended to incorporate the language of House-passed H.R. 975, including the
extension of protection to family fishermen. A conference has been requested on S. 1920.
Great Lakes. On July 16, 2003, the Senate Governmental Affairs Subcommittee on
Oversight of Government Management, the Federal Workforce, and the District of Columbia
held a hearing on Great Lakes restoration. H.R. 2500 would authorize the Great Lakes
Fishery Commission to investigate effects of migratory birds on the productivity of Great
Lakes fish stocks. S. 1398 and H.R. 2720 would provide for coordinated environmental
restoration of the Great Lakes.
Striped Bass. H.R. 3883 would reauthorize the Atlantic Striped Bass Conservation
Act through FY2006; the House Resources Subcommittee on Fisheries Conservation,
Wildlife, and Oceans held hearings on this bill on March 17-18, 2004. H.R. 1286 would
prohibit commercial harvesting of Atlantic striped bass in U.S. coastal waters and the EEZ.
H.R. 2889 would direct the Secretary of Commerce to study fishery observer data to map
migratory patterns and delineate wintering and feeding areas of Atlantic striped bass.
Corals and Coral Reefs. H.R. 1721 would amend the Foreign Assistance Act of
1961 to provide debt relief to developing nations that protect coral reef habitat. S. 1953/H.R.
4897 would establish coral management areas to protect specific deep sea corals. H.R. 4928
would prohibit the export, import, and take of certain coral species.
Irrigation. Section 7 of S. 900/H.R. 2257 would require fish protection devices for the
Lower Yellowstone Irrigation Project. On May 18, 2004, the House Resources
Subcommittee on Water and Power held a hearing on H.R. 2257. On May 19, 2004, the
Senate Energy Subcommittee on Water and Power held a hearing on S. 900.
Gear Loss. S. 2488 would authorize a NOAA program to address marine debris, with
particular emphasis on reducing and preventing commercial fishing gear loss; this measure
was reported by the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation on October 11,
2004 (S.Rept. 108-401), and passed the Senate (amended) on November 21, 2004.
Shellfish Restoration. Section 4311 of S. 2773 would authorize oyster and shellfish
habitat restoration in Long Island Sound; this measure was reported by the Committee on
Environment and Public Works on August 25, 2004 (S.Rept. 108-314).
Renewable Energy. H.R. 1183 would amend the Coastal Zone Management Act to
require that consideration be given to concerns for access restrictions affecting commercial
and recreational fishing when constructing and operating marine renewable energy projects.
Capital Construction Fund. H.R. 2360/S. 1193 would provide for qualified
withdrawals from Capital Construction Fund accounts for fishermen leaving the industry for
rollover into individual retirement plans.
State Cooperative Programs. Title I of H.R. 4100 would provide grants to coastal
states and counties for cooperative fishery data collection, habitat conservation, enforcement,
management, and planning.
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Climate Change. H.R. 4067 would require the Secretary of Commerce to prepare a
report on the observed and projected effects of climate change on marine life, habitat, and
commercial and recreational fisheries.
Graduate Education. H.R. 5145 would provide fellowships for students in advanced
degree programs concerning freshwater/anadromous fish or related resource management,
to provide expertise and to gain policy experience in federal executive agencies or Congress.
National Policy. H.R. 3627 would establish an Office of Oceans and Coastal Policy
in the Executive Office of the President.
Aquaculture: Background and Issues
Aquaculture is the farming or husbandry of fish, shellfish, and other aquatic animals and
plants, usually in a controlled or selected environment. The diversity of aquaculture is
typified by such activities as: fish farming, usually applied to freshwater commercial
aquaculture operations (e.g., catfish and trout farms); shellfish and seaweed culture; net-pen
culture, used by the salmon industry, wherein fish remain captive throughout their lives in
marine pens built from nets; and ocean ranching, used by the Pacific Coast salmon industry
which cultures juveniles, releases them to mature in the open ocean, and catches them when
they return as adults to spawn. With growth, aquaculture operations face increasing scrutiny
for habitat destruction, pollution, and other concerns. The major statute affecting U.S.
aquaculture is the National Aquaculture Act of 1980, as amended (16 U.S.C. 2801 et seq.).
P.L. 108-199 provided FY2004 appropriations for various aquaculture programs.
Miscellaneous Issues
Oil Spill Damage. Section 708 of P.L. 108-293 amends the Oil Pollution Act of 1990
to authorize interim assistance to aquaculture operators awaiting the recovery of damages for
oil spill injuries.
Disaster Relief. P.L. 108-324 provided $9 million for reseeding, rehabilitating, and
restoring hurricane-damaged oyster reefs in Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, and Mississippi.
S. 1309/H.R. 2684/H.R. 4874 would authorize emergency financial assistance for fisheries
crop loss attributable to a disaster.
Business Assistance. Section 316 of P.L. 108-357 modifies cooperative marketing
rules to include feeding products to fish and sale of the cultured fish. H.R. 2802 would
amend the Small Business Act to specifically identify aquaculture operations as qualified
small business concerns; this bill was reported by the Committee on Small Business on
October 21, 2003 (H.Rept. 108-325, Part I). H.R. 4210 would amend the Farm Credit Act
to assist businesses that provide services to aquaculture operators.
Bankruptcy. H.R. 343, §1007 of H.R. 975, and §8 of S. 2004 would extend similar
protection to family fishermen (including aquaculture operations) as currently applies to
family farmers under Chapter 12 of bankruptcy laws. The House Judiciary Subcommittee
on Commercial and Administrative Law held a hearing on H.R. 975 on March 4, 2003, and
reported this measure (amended) on March 18, 2003 (H.Rept. 108-40, Part I). On March 19,
2003, the House passed H.R. 975, as amended. On January 28, 2004, the House passed S.
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1920, amended to incorporate the language of House-passed H.R. 975, including the
extension of protection to family fishermen. A conference has been requested on S. 1920.
Chesapeake Bay. Section 4332 of S. 2554 and §4333 of S. 2773 would authorize
projects to restore native oysters in Chesapeake Bay; on June 23, 2004, the Senate
Committee on Environment and Public Works ordered S. 2554 reported (amended). The
Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works reported S. 2773 on August 25, 2004
(S.Rept. 108-314). Section 6 of S. 831 would authorize grants to support education and
development of Chesapeake Bay aquaculture sciences and technologies.
Research. Section 3(c)(3)(D) of S. 1218 would include “techniques for ... culturing
and aquaculturing marine organisms” in the authorization of an Interagency Oceans and
Human Health Research Program. The Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and
Transportation reported S. 1218 (amended) on November 19, 2003 (S.Rept. 108-203), and
the Senate passed this bill (amended) on March 24, 2004.
Labeling. H.R. 4576 would amend the Agricultural Marketing Act to make country
of origin labeling voluntary; this measure was ordered reported (amended) by the House
Committee on Agriculture on July 22, 2004. H.R. 3083 would modify the country of origin
labeling requirements for wild and farm-raised fish.
Bird Predation. H.R. 3320 would authorize Animal and Plant Health Inspection
Service to manage and control migratory birds. On June 24, 2004, the House Resources
Subcommittee on Fisheries Conservation, Wildlife, and Oceans held a hearing on this bill.
Decommissioned OCS Platforms. H.R. 2654 would amend the Outer Continental
Shelf Lands Act to direct the Secretary of the Interior to authorize the use of decommissioned
offshore oil and gas platforms for culturing marine organisms.
Mitigation Hatcheries. H.R. 4383 would authorize specific activities wherein
National Fish Hatchery production would compensate for the impacts of federal water
development projects on aquatic resources.
Corals. Section 4(a)(3) of H.R. 4928 would exempt certain corals grown in qualified
facilities from prohibitions on import, export, and take for corals generally.
National Policy. S.Res. 160/H.Res. 301/H.Res. 308 would express the sense of the
Congress that the federal government should strengthen the national policy on aquaculture.
Discharge Penalties. Section 2 of H.R. 1184 would amend the Clean Water Act to
increase criminal penalties for certain violations of regulations on aquacultural discharges.
Tax Provisions. Section 2(e) of S. 106 would specifically exclude small businesses
that raise fish from certain provisions modifying income tax on capital gains.
Federal Permits. S. 2859 would prohibit the issuance of permits for marine
aquaculture facilities in federal waters until requirements for such permits are enacted.
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Marine Mammals: Background and Issues
Due in part to dolphin mortality (estimated at more than 400,000 animals per year) in
the eastern tropical Pacific tuna purse-seine fishery, Congress enacted the Marine Mammal
Protection Act (MMPA) in 1972. The MMPA established a moratorium on the “taking” of
marine mammals in U.S. waters and by U.S. nationals on the high seas and a moratorium on
importing marine mammals and products into the United States. This act expressly
authorizes the Secretaries of the Interior and Commerce to issue permits for the “taking” of
marine mammals for certain purposes, such as scientific research and public display. Under
the act, the Secretary of Commerce, acting through NOAA Fisheries, is responsible for the
conservation and management of whales, dolphins, porpoises, seals, and sea lions. The
Secretary of the Interior, acting through the Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), is responsible
for walruses, sea and marine otters, polar bears, manatees, and dugongs. The MMPA
authorizes the taking of marine mammals incidental to commercial fishing operations.
Marine Mammal Protection Act Reauthorization
Background. The MMPA was reauthorized in 1994 by P.L. 103-238, the MMPA
Amendments of 1994; the authorization for appropriations expired on September 30, 1999.
The 1994 amendments indefinitely authorized the taking of marine mammals incidental to
commercial fishing operations and provided for assessment of marine mammal stocks in U.S.
waters, for the development and implementation of take reduction plans for stocks that may
be reduced or are being maintained below their optimum sustainable population levels due
to interactions with commercial fisheries, and for studies of pinniped-fishery interactions.
Congressional Action. At issue for Congress are the terms and conditions of
provisions designed to reauthorize and amend the MMPA to address the concerns of various
interests. Section 626 of P.L. 108-293 requires studies of routing options for reducing vessel
strikes on North Atlantic right whales. H.R. 2693 and H.R. 3316 would amend and
reauthorize the MMPA through FY2008. The House Resources Subcommittee on Fisheries
Conservation, Wildlife, and Oceans held a hearing on H.R. 2693 on July 24, 2003; on April
20, 2004, the House Committee on Resources reported (amended) this bill (H.Rept. 108-
464). On July 16, 2003, the Senate Commerce Subcommittee on Oceans, Fisheries, and
Coast Guard held a hearing on MMPA reauthorization issues. On August 19, 2003, the
House Resources Subcommittee on Fisheries Conservation, Wildlife, and Oceans held an
oversight field hearing in San Diego, California, on the increasing frequency of interactions
between marine mammals and humans. H.R. 5104 proposes extensive amendments to the
MMPA and would authorize appropriations for the John H. Prescott Marine Mammal Rescue
Assistance Grant Program through FY2009; this measure was reported by the House
Committee on Resources on November 19, 2004 (H.Rept. 108-787).
H.R. 2142 would amend the MMPA to repeal the goal for reducing the incidental
mortality and serious injury of marine mammals in commercial fishing operations to zero and
to modify the goal of take reduction plans for reducing such takings. Title I of H.R. 4100
would provide grants to coastal states and counties for cooperative marine mammal data
collection, habitat conservation, enforcement, management, and planning. H.R. 4869 would
amend the MMPA to authorize appropriations for the John H. Prescott Marine Mammal
Rescue Assistance Grant Program through FY2009. Section 305 of H.R. 4900 would
transfer management of all marine mammals to NOAA. For additional information on
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potential reauthorization issues in the 108th Congress, see CRS Report RL30120, Marine
Mammal Protection Act: Reauthorization Issues.
Miscellaneous Issues
Tuna-Dolphin. P.L. 108-7 included provisions directing the Department of
Commerce to evaluate and document foreign compliance with the International Dolphin
Conservation Program. S. 130 would amend the labeling requirements for “dolphin-safe
tuna” in the Dolphin Protection Consumer Information Act. S. 1861 would establish a
framework for consideration of unilateral sanctions against foreign nations.
Polar Bears. Section 149 of P.L. 108-108 modified §104(c)(5)(D) of the MMPA to
permit the importation of polar bears harvested prior to the enactment of final regulations.
On June 17, 2003, the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations held a hearing on the 2001
Agreement between the United States and Russia on the conservation and management of
the Alaska-Chukotka polar bear population.
Military Readiness. Section 319 of P.L. 108-136 amended the MMPA to modify the
definition of harassment and provisions relating to taking marine mammals as they relate to
military readiness activities and federal scientific research. On March 13, 2003, the House
Armed Services Subcommittee on Readiness held a hearing on potential amendments to the
MMPA to address military readiness concerns. For additional information, see “Military
Readiness and Environmental Exemptions” in CRS Report RL32183, Defense Cleanup and
Environmental Programs: Authorization and Appropriations for FY2004.
Subsistence Whaling. Section 335 of P.L. 108-357 amends the Internal Revenue
Code to provide a charitable deduction for certain whaling expenses incurred in Native
Alaskan subsistence bowhead whaling.
International Whaling. Section 434 of H.R. 1950, §4 of H.R. 1590, and §103 of
H.R. 4053 would require the Secretary of State of annually send a high-level delegation to
consult with key foreign governments in every region to promote the U.S. agenda at the
International Whaling Commission. H.R. 1950 was reported (amended) on May 16, 2003,
by the Committee on International Relations (H.Rept. 108-105, Part I); on June 30, 2003, by
the Committee on Armed Services (H.Rept. 108-105, Part III); and on July 11, 2003, by the
Committee on Energy and Commerce (H.Rept. 108-105, Part IV); and it passed the House
on July 16, 2003. On June 23, 2004, the House passed H.R. 4053. H.Con.Res. 216/H.Res.
727/S.Con.Res. 55/S.Con.Res. 122 would express the sense of the Congress regarding U.S.
policy at the annual meeting of the International Whaling Commission.
Ocean Health. S. 1218 would increase support and coordination of interagency ocean
science programs, including U.S. research and monitoring programs related to the role of
oceans in human health; the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation reported
this bill (amended) on November 19, 2003 (S.Rept. 108-203). The Senate passed S. 1218
(amended) on March 24, 2004.
Renewable Energy. H.R. 1183 would amend the Coastal Zone Management Act of
1972 to require that consideration be given to concerns for marine mammals and their critical
habitat when constructing and operating marine renewable energy projects.
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Southern Sea Otter. H.R. 3545 would direct the Interior Secretary to implement
recovery and research programs for the southern sea otter.
Canadian Sealing. S.Res. 269 would urge Canada to end commercial seal hunting.
LEGISLATION
Fisheries
P.L. 108-7 (H.J.Res. 2); P.L. 108-11 (H.R. 1559); P.L. 108-87 (H.R. 2658); P.L. 108-
108 (H.R. 2691); P.L. 108-136 (H.R. 1588); P.L. 108-137 (H.R. 2754); P.L. 108-188
(H.J.Res. 63); P.L. 108-199 (H.R. 2673); P.L. 108-204 (S. 523); P.L. 108-219 (H.R. 2584);
P.L. 108-282 (S. 741); P.L. 108-287 (H.R. 4613); P.L. 108-293 (H.R. 2443); P.L. 108-311
(H.R. 1308); P.L. 108-357 (H.R. 4520); and P.L. 108-412 (S. 144).
H.Res. 30 (Cunningham); H.Res. 362 (Walsh); H.Con.Res. 268 (Saxton); H.Con.Res.
276 (Brown of Ohio); H.Con.Res. 382 (Vitter); H.R. 6 (Tauzin); H.R. 155 (Paul); H.R. 238
(Boehlert); H.R. 266 (Ehlers); H.R. 343 (Baldwin); H.R. 660 (Fletcher); H.R. 878 (Thomas);
H.R. 927 (Hulshof); H.R. 958 (Young of Alaska); H.R. 975 (Sensenbrenner); H.R. 989
(Hoekstra); H.R. 999 (Barton); H.R. 1013 (Radanovich); H.R. 1024 (Saxton); H.R. 1047
(Crane); H.R. 1080 (Gilchrest); H.R. 1081 (Ehlers); H.R. 1097 (McDermott); H.R. 1183
(Delahunt); H.R. 1261 (McKeon); H.R. 1286 (Pallone); H.R. 1343 (Woolsey); H.R. 1424
(Faleomavaega); H.R. 1495 (Pallone); H.R. 1497 (Pombo); H.R. 1551 (Schakowsky); H.R.
1604 (Doolittle); H.R. 1624 (Pallone); H.R. 1644 (Barton); H.R. 1661 (Rangel); H.R. 1690
(Hefley); H.R. 1721 (Kirk); H.R. 1753 (Nethercutt); H.R. 1760 (Thompson of California);
H.R. 1856 (Ehlers); H.R. 1945 (Thompson of California); H.R. 1950 (Hyde); H.R. 2048
(Gilchrest); H.R. 2088 (Young of Alaska); H.R. 2257 (Rehberg); H.R. 2308 (Levin); H.R.
2310 (Rahall); H.R. 2360 (Capps); H.R. 2406 (Paul); H.R. 2425 (Dicks); H.R. 2500
(Stupak); H.R. 2557 (Young of Alaska); H.R. 2621 (Allen); H.R. 2679 (Israel); H.R. 2720
(Emanuel); H.R. 2799 (Wolf); H.R. 2839 (Shaw); H.R. 2889 (Saxton); H.R. 2890 (Saxton);
H.R. 2973 (Simmons); H.R. 3083 (Peterson of Minnesota); H.R. 3122 (Miller of Michigan);
H.R. 3139 (Lantos); H.R. 3327 (Thompson of California); H.R. 3482 (Pomeroy); H.R. 3521
(Thomas); H.R. 3550 (Young of Alaska); H.R. 3620 (Neal); H.R. 3627 (Saxton); H.R. 3645
(Young of Alaska); H.R. 3684 (Lowey); H.R. 3783 (Young of Alaska); H.R. 3883
(Gilchrest); H.R. 4067 (Gilchrest); H.R. 4100 (George Miller); H.R. 4101 (Farr); H.R. 4210
(LoBiondo); H.R. 4251 (Young of Alaska); H.R. 4279 (McCrery); H.R. 4281 (Sam
Johnson); H.R. 4319 (Sensenbrenner); H.R. 4503 (Barton); H.R. 4576 (Goodlatte); H.R.
4686 (Kind); H.R. 4706 (Rahall); H.R. 4754 (Wolf); H.R. 4762 (Pallone); H.R. 4897
(Greenwood); H.R. 4928 (Case); H.R. 4959 (John); H.R. 4981 (Otter); H.R. 5030 (Michaud);
H.R. 5145 (Pallone); H.R. 5169 (Nussle); H.R. 5259 (DeLauro); S.Res. 279 (Coleman);
S.J.Res. 16 (Domenici); S.Con.Res. 69 (Feingold); S. 14 (Domenici); S. 130 (Boxer); S. 247
(Snowe); S. 256 (Grassley); S. 272 (Santorum); S. 366 (Jeffords); S. 370 (Smith); S. 476
(Grassley); S. 482 (Collins); S. 484 (Leahy); S. 485 (Inhofe); S. 487 (Collins); S. 506
(Durbin); S. 525 (Levin); S. 545 (Snowe); S. 665 (Grassley); S. 671 (Grassley); S. 733
(Snowe); S. 747 (Warner); S. 762 (Stevens); S. 781 (Lott); S. 790 (Lugar); S. 842 (Kerry);
S. 900 (Burns); S. 910 (Akaka); S. 925 (Lugar); S. 937 (Voinovich); S. 1005 (Domenici); S.
1047 (Warner); S. 1072 (Inhofe); S. 1106 (Snowe); S. 1110 (Bingaman); S. 1193 (Wyden);
S. 1218 (Hollings); S. 1299 (Snowe); S. 1307 (Smith); S. 1308 (Wyden); S. 1382 (Stevens);
S. 1391 (Burns); S. 1398 (DeWine); S. 1401 (McCain); S. 1438 (Cantwell); S. 1463
(Clinton); S. 1555 (Boxer); S. 1585 (Gregg); S. 1624 (Reed); S. 1640 (Inhofe); S. 1669
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(Inhofe); S. 1739 (Kerry); S. 1782 (Kerry); S. 1804 (Breaux); S. 1831 (Smith); S. 1840
(Conrad); S. 1844 (Inhofe); S. 1861 (Lugar); S. 1884 (Kerry); S. 1920 (Grassley); S. 1939
(Leahy); S. 1953 (Lautenberg); S. 1962 (Grassley); S. 1978 (McCain); S. 2004 (Grassley);
S. 2066 (Snowe); S. 2095 (Domenici); S. 2110 (Grassley); S. 2144 (Lugar); S. 2188
(Feingold); S. 2197 (Murkowski); S. 2244 (Hutchison); S. 2271 (Durbin); S. 2301 (Inouye);
S. 2456 (Baucus); S. 2488 (Inouye); S. 2490 (Inouye); S. 2554 (Inhofe); S. 2559 (Stevens);
S. 2605 (Craig); S. 2761 (Grassley); S. 2767 (Specter); S. 2773 (Inhofe); S. 2788 (Crapo);
S. 2878 (Campbell); and S. 2910 (Durbin).
Aquaculture
P.L. 108-7 (H.J.Res. 2); P.L. 108-199 (H.R. 2673); P.L. 108-293 (H.R. 2443); P.L. 108-
324 (H.R. 4837); and P.L. 108-357 (H.R. 4520).
H.Res. 301 (Abercrombie); H.Res. 308 (McIntyre); H.R. 343 (Baldwin); H.R. 975
(Sensenbrenner); H.R. 1184 (Dingell); H.R. 2654 (Vitter); H.R. 2684 (Ross); H.R. 2802
(Manzullo); H.R. 3083 (Peterson of Minnesota); H.R. 3320 (Ross); H.R. 4210 (LoBiondo);
H.R. 4383 (Deal); H.R. 4576 (Goodlatte); H.R. 4874 (Ross); H.R. 4928 (Case); S.Res. 160
(Akaka); S. 106 (Collins); S. 370 (Smith), S. 733 (Snowe); S. 831 (Sarbanes); S. 1218
(Hollings); S. 1309 (Lincoln); S. 1427 (Bennett); S. 1637 (Frist); S. 1920 (Grassley); S. 2004
(Grassley); S. 2554 (Inhofe); S. 2761 (Grassley); S. 2773 (Inhofe); and S. 2859 (Murkowski).
Marine Mammals
P.L. 108-7 (H.J.Res. 2); P.L. 108-108 (H.R. 2691); P.L. 108-136 (H.R. 1588); P.L. 108-
199 (H.R. 2673); P.L. 108-293 (H.R. 2443); and P.L. 108-357 (H.R. 4520).
H.Con.Res. 216 (Delahunt); H.Res. 727 (Delahunt); H.R. 952 (Young of Alaska); H.R.
1183 (Delahunt); H.R. 1590 (Lantos); H.R. 1835 (Gallegly); H.R. 1950 (Hyde); H.R. 2142
(Young of Alaska); H.R. 2693 (Gilchrest); H.R. 2799 (Wolf); H.R. 3316 (Pallone); H.R.
3545 (Farr); H.R. 4053 (Lantos); H.R. 4100 (George Miller); H.R. 4754 (Wolf); H.R. 4869
(Gilchrest); H.R. 4900 (Greenwood); H.R. 5104 (Gilchrest); S.Con.Res. 55 (Snowe);
S.Con.Res. 122 (Snowe); S.Res. 269 (Levin); S. 130 (Boxer); S. 293 (Murkowski); S. 747
(Warner); S. 927 (Warner); S. 1218 (Hollings); S. 1391 (Burns); S. 1401 (McCain); S. 1585
(Gregg); and S. 1861 (Lugar).
CRS-16

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