Sponsors
Sarah Elfreth (D) MD
Cosponsors
Robert Wittman (R) VA, Jennifer Kiggans (R) VA, Steny Hoyer (D) MD
Summary
This bill does not yet have a summary.
Subjects
Chesapeake Bay, Congressional oversight, Delaware, District of Columbia, Fishes, Food industry and services, Food supply, safety, and labeling, Marine and coastal resources, fisheries, Maryland, New York State, Pennsylvania, Seafood, Virginia, Watersheds, West Virginia, Wildlife conservation and habitat protectionPolicy Areas
Public Lands and Natural ResourcesNext Steps
The bill was referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources. The next steps could include committee hearings, markup sessions, and a vote in the full House of Representatives if the committee decides to advance it.Social Impact
The bill could positively impact the Chesapeake Bay watershed's ecology by reducing the blue catfish population which is considered an invasive species. The bill might also improve the livelihood of watermen in the region, and reduce the economic burden of invasive species management. It may also provide new sources of protein, however, potential negative impacts such as unintended consequences to other species within the bay should be considered.Business Impact
If passed, the bill could create new business opportunities for seafood processors and manufacturers of pet food, animal feed, and aquaculture feed in the Chesapeake Bay watershed by providing a market for blue catfish. This may also benefit watermen by providing a guaranteed buyer for their catch. However, the impact on existing businesses is uncertain.Financial Impact
The bill authorizes $2,000,000 annually for a three-year pilot program to purchase blue catfish. This funding could stimulate the local economy and support watermen financially but its overall budgetary impact requires further analysis.Bill History
Monday, July 7, 2025
IntroReferral - Referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources.
Monday, July 7, 2025
IntroReferral - Introduced in House
Monday, July 7, 2025
IntroReferral - Introduced in House
Bill Text
Introduced in House July 7, 2025
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