Today, the Subcommittee on Water, Wildlife and Fisheries held a legislative hearing to discuss six bills and a discussion draft aimed at improving species management and reforming the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA). Subcommittee Chair Harriet Hageman emphasized the importance of these efforts: “Today’s hearing underscores our commitment to ensuring that federal environmental laws work for the American people. These bills reflect a much-needed shift toward transparency, flexibility and common sense in how we manage our natural resources. I am proud to support legislative solutions that prioritize both conservation and responsible use.”
The discussion draft of H.R. ____, introduced by U.S. Rep. Nick Begich, aims to make significant reforms to the MMPA. The proposed changes are intended to reduce regulatory uncertainty and streamline the permitting process.
H.R. 180, introduced by U.S. Rep. Tom McClintock, seeks to amend the Endangered Species Act (ESA) by requiring more transparency in data used for listing decisions and capping attorneys’ fees in ESA lawsuits.
H.R. 3706, known as the SUSHI Act, introduced by U.S. Rep. Brian Babin, targets illegal fishing practices by directing NOAA to develop methods for identifying seafood origins.
H.R. 3831, introduced by U.S. Rep. Daniel Webster, focuses on aligning state and federal laws regarding shark feeding near Florida’s coast.
H.R. 4033, introduced by U.S. Rep. Randy Fine, proposes an exemption for farm-raised sturgeon from certain ESA prohibitions.
H.R. 4293, introduced by U.S. Rep. Juan Ciscomani, would allow military installations greater flexibility in conserving natural resources.
Lastly, H.R. 4294, introduced by U.S. Rep Sarah Elfreth as the MAWS Act of 2025, plans a pilot program targeting invasive blue catfish removal in Chesapeake Bay.
