Us Congress Senate Bill SB2870

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 9/20/23
• Refer: 9/20/23

Caption

Sturgeon Conservation and Sustainability Act

Impact

The passage of SB2870 is expected to have significant effects on state laws surrounding the management and regulation of sturgeon. By providing exemptions from some of the stringent protections in the Endangered Species Act for farmed sturgeons, the bill aims to encourage the growth of aquaculture for species that are often critically endangered. Proponents envision that this will not only bolster the economy through sustainable fish farming but will also aid in the recovery of wild sturgeon populations by allowing controlled breeding practices.

Summary

SB2870, known as the Sturgeon Conservation and Sustainability Act, proposes amendments to the Endangered Species Act of 1973 specifically aimed at sturgeon conservation. The bill allows for certain activities to be legally conducted regarding sturgeon that are held in captivity or within controlled environments in the United States. It specifies that provisions in the original act will not apply to sturgeons that are farmed or their progeny until such time as they are intentionally returned to the wild. This legislative proposal presents both an opportunity for sustainable aquaculture and a mechanism for regulated sturgeon farming operations.

Contention

However, the bill is not without its controversies. The introduction of provisions that relax regulations on sturgeons held in captivity has faced criticism from environmental groups and some lawmakers who believe it could undermine conservation efforts for this threatened species. Opponents argue that these amendments could lead to less rigorous oversight of sturgeon farming and raise concerns about the overall health of sturgeon populations in natural habitats. There is a fear that easing protections might lead to mismanagement and exploitation under the guise of sustainability.