H.R. 8876: Aquatic Invasive Species Control and Prevention Act of 2026

This bill, known as the Aquatic Invasive Species Control and Prevention Act of 2026, aims to address the issues surrounding aquatic invasive species (AIS) in U.S. waters. Here are the main components of the bill:

Definition Updates

The bill updates the definitions related to aquatic invasive species by explicitly including the term "aquatic invasive species" in existing legislation and defining rapid response activities, which are actions taken quickly to eliminate or control an invasive species once detected.

Grant Program for Control and Eradication

The legislation establishes a new grant program intended to finance research, development, demonstration, and verification of environmentally sound and cost-effective techniques to manage and eliminate aquatic invasive species. The aims of this grant program include:

• Supporting federal, state, tribal, and local authorities or organizations involved in combating AIS.
• Increasing access to innovative technologies and methods to control or eradicate these species.
• Demonstrating effective technologies to potential users.
• Ensuring that funded methods meet specified effectiveness and environmental soundness criteria.

Aquatic Nuisance Species Task Force Updates

The bill modifies the structure and functions of the Aquatic Nuisance Species Task Force, including the addition of representatives from regional panels to enhance regional coordination in managing aquatic invasive species.

Monitoring Programs

It mandates the establishment of an interbasin and intrabasin monitoring program to track the movement of AIS through significant waterways and assess the effectiveness of dispersal barriers aimed at preventing their spread.

Watercraft Inspections and Decontaminations

The bill requires the development of a plan for inspecting and decontaminating watercraft to combat the introduction and spread of AIS. The plan will include:

• Deployment of inspection stations at boat launches and road access points.
• Creation of a certification system to standardize inspections across federal agencies.
• Incentives for the manufacturing of watercraft and equipment designed to mitigate the transfer of invasive species.

Rapid Response Activities

A competitive grant program will be established for rapid response activities, allowing eligible entities to implement actions to eradicate or contain invasive species populations effectively.

Appropriations

The bill authorizes funding for several initiatives, including:

• $10 million annually for various programs from 2026 through 2031.
• $20 million annually for state management programs focusing on invasive species.
• Specific funding for technology development grants to encourage new environmentally friendly methods.

Use of Grant Awards for Ballast Water Management Systems

The bill encourages the adoption of ballast water management systems that meet international standards to mitigate the spread of AIS through maritime activities.

Compliance and Reporting

Lastly, the legislation includes provisions for regular reporting on the effectiveness of the initiatives undertaken, ensuring transparency and accountability in the execution of the program.

Relevant Companies

• Danfoss A/S (DAN) - As a company involved in water management and engineering, Danfoss could be affected by new regulations surrounding watercraft and environmental standards.
• Xylem Inc. (XYL) - Xylem provides technologies for water treatment and management, and may benefit from new grant programs aimed at developing innovative solutions for aquatic invasive species control.