Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress House Bill HB7209

Introduced
2/1/24  
Refer
2/1/24  

Caption

Caribbean and Latin America Maritime Security Initiative Act of 2024

Impact

The bill outlines a multi-agency approach involving the Departments of Defense, Homeland Security, and State, aimed at enhancing maritime security and law enforcement capabilities in partner countries. Key objectives include fostering cooperation between U.S. agencies and allies in the Caribbean, improving monitoring and management of fisheries, and increasing the operational capacity of local authorities to effectively combat IUU fishing. Additionally, the legislation proposes the imposition of sanctions against foreign entities and individuals engaged in these illegal fishing practices, thereby strengthening U.S. efforts to curb IUU fishing globally.

Summary

House Bill 7209, titled the 'Caribbean and Latin America Maritime Security Initiative Act of 2024', seeks to establish a comprehensive initiative aimed at combating illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing in Caribbean and Latin American waters. The bill emphasizes the need for a structured response to IUU fishing, which poses significant threats to both economic security and environmental sustainability in these regions. This initiative is in line with existing U.S. commitments to promote a rules-based global order and uphold the sustainable management of living marine resources.

Contention

While the initiative is largely viewed as necessary for environmental protection and regional stability, there are potential points of contention regarding the imposition of sanctions. Critics may argue that these sanctions could disproportionately affect legitimate fishing operations and complicate diplomatic relations with countries involved in maritime activities. Concerns have also been raised about the involvement of larger international players, particularly China, in IUU fishing within these waters, further complicating enforcement and cooperation efforts. As the United States seeks to enhance its partnerships, balancing assertive measures with diplomatic engagement will be crucial.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

US SR92

A resolution expressing concern that illegal, unregulated, and unreported fishing threatens security, prosperity, and biodiversity in Latin America and the Caribbean and facilitates human trafficking, including forced labor, and other inhumane and criminal practices in the region.

US HB1802

Caribbean Basin Security Initiative Authorization Act

US HB9440

SEAS Act of 2024 Securing Enforcement in African Seas Act of 2024

US SB841

Caribbean Basin Security Initiative Authorization Act

US SB820

Caribbean Basin Security Initiative Authorization Act

US HB1704

Latin America and Caribbean Nearshoring Act

US SR142

A resolution expressing concern about environmental crimes and attacks on the human rights of environmental and land defenders in Latin America and the Caribbean.

US HB5105

Las Americas Energy Security Act

US SR273

A resolution promoting stronger economic relations between the United States, Canada, and countries in Latin America and the Caribbean.

US HB5839

Maritime Border Security Technology Improvement Act

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