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Sustaining Healthy Ecosystems, Livelihoods, and Local Seafood Act
12/7/2023, 5:05 PM
Summary of Bill S 2211
The main objectives of the bill include:
1. Promoting sustainable fisheries management by requiring the establishment of science-based catch limits and accountability measures to prevent overfishing and ensure the long-term health of fish stocks. 2. Supporting local seafood industries by providing funding for research and development, marketing, and infrastructure improvements to help small-scale fishermen and seafood businesses compete in the marketplace. 3. Protecting marine ecosystems by implementing measures to reduce bycatch, protect essential fish habitats, and promote ecosystem-based fisheries management. 4. Enhancing transparency and accountability in fisheries management by requiring regular reporting on the status of fish stocks, the effectiveness of management measures, and the economic impact of fishing activities. Overall, the Sustaining Healthy Ecosystems, Livelihoods, and Local Seafood Act aims to balance the needs of fishermen, seafood consumers, and the environment by promoting sustainable fishing practices, supporting local seafood industries, and protecting marine ecosystems for future generations.
Congressional Summary of S 2211
Sustaining Healthy Ecosystems, Livelihoods, and Local Seafood Act or the SHELLS Act
This bill directs the Department of Agriculture (USDA) to establish an Office of Aquaculture and an Aquaculture Advisory Committee. The term aquaculture means the propagation and rearing of aquatic species in controlled or selected environments, including ocean ranching (with exclusions).
Specifically, the Office of Aquaculture must encourage and promote aquaculture operations that promote U.S. food security and limit adverse environmental effects.
USDA must also establish a 14-member Aquaculture Advisory Committee to advise USDA on (1) developing policies and outreach relating to sustainable aquaculture practices; and (2) the history, use, and preservation of indigenous and traditional aquaculture practices and ecological knowledge.
