Us Congress House Bill HB1894

Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/6/25
• Refer: 3/6/25

Caption

FISH Act of 2025 Federally Integrated Species Health Act of 2025

Impact

The implications of HB 1894 are wide-ranging. By consolidating the functions regarding anadromous and catadromous species, the bill aims to foster a more cohesive approach to fisheries management. The Secretary of the Interior would gain comprehensive authority to oversee these species, which may lead to improved conservation strategies and policies tailored for migratory fish that rely on both fresh and saltwater ecosystems. Furthermore, this shift could influence how existing regulations are applied and how administrative decisions regarding these species are made.

Summary

House Bill 1894, known as the Federally Integrated Species Health Act of 2025 (the FISH Act), seeks to amend the Endangered Species Act of 1973. The primary goal of this bill is to transfer certain responsibilities associated with anadromous and catadromous fish species from the Secretary of Commerce to the Secretary of the Interior. This change is significant as it centralizes the management of these species under one federal authority, potentially streamlining regulatory processes related to fisheries and habitat conservation.

Contention

Despite the objective of creating a more integrated system for managing fish species, the bill has generated discussions around its capacity to effectively address ecological complexities. Critics may argue that transferring jurisdiction could lead to bureaucratic delays or a lack of local responsiveness in conservation efforts. Moreover, stakeholders in the fishing industry and environmental advocacy groups may express concerns over how this centralization of authority could affect local fisheries management practices and species health assessments.

Congress_id

119-HR-1894

Introduced_date

2025-03-06