Establishing Sustainable Offshore Aquaculture and Streamlining Federal Permitting.
This Act establishes a clear federal regulatory framework for sustainable marine aquaculture in US federal waters, aiming to boost domestic seafood production and create jobs. It mandates the designation of specific Aquaculture Opportunity Areas (AOAs) and requires strict environmental and operational standards for all permitted facilities. Citizens benefit from increased domestic seafood supply, potential job growth, and assurance that new operations adhere to strong environmental safeguards.
Key points
New Regulatory System: Creates a unified federal system for permitting and managing offshore fish farming operations far from shore, replacing fragmented regulations.
Environmental Standards: Requires all operations to meet national sustainability standards, including using feed sourced from sustainably managed fisheries and implementing contingency plans for disease and fish escapes.
Economic Growth: Supports the industry through research grants, workforce training, and simplified permitting coordination among multiple federal agencies (NOAA, EPA, Coast Guard, etc.).
Designated Zones: Mandates the identification and establishment of specific "Aquaculture Opportunity Areas" (AOAs) to concentrate and manage farming activities efficiently.
Expired
Citizen Poll