S. 2586: Marine Aquaculture Research for America Act of 2025

The Marine Aquaculture Research for America Act of 2025 is designed to oversee and enhance offshore aquaculture (fish farming) in the United States. The primary goals of the bill include:

Regulation and Promotion

• Establishing an assessment program to monitor offshore aquaculture activities.
• Creating Aquaculture Centers of Excellence to facilitate research and development in aquaculture practices.
• Supporting workforce development initiatives to ensure a skilled labor force in the aquaculture sector.
• Aiming to decrease the seafood trade deficit by promoting domestic seafood production.
• Ensuring the sustainability of aquaculture practices to protect marine environments.

Permit Application Process

• The bill stipulates that there will be an application process for obtaining permits for offshore aquaculture operations.
• All applications must include public notice and allow for public comments.
• Priority will be given to projects that benefit communities impacted by natural disasters.
• The bill requires the Administrator to assess permit applications for compliance with existing laws.
• It mandates the collection of socioeconomic data and emergency reporting related to aquaculture projects.

Environmental Protections

• Measures are to be implemented that focus on minimizing the environmental impacts of offshore aquaculture.
• This includes responsible choices for locations where aquaculture can occur (informed siting), as well as sourcing feed in a responsible manner.
• Analyses of potential negative impacts on marine ecosystems will be required.
• The bill emphasizes the need for regulatory frameworks that foster community involvement and consider sustainable practices.
• Overall, it seeks a balance between the growth of aquaculture and the protection of environmental and social interests.

Workforce Development and Outreach

• Support for initiatives aimed at developing a knowledgeable workforce that can engage with and support aquaculture efforts.
• Outreach programs to educate communities about the benefits and practices of sustainable aquaculture.

Community Involvement

• The legislation highlights the importance of involving local communities in the decision-making processes related to offshore aquaculture.
• Encouraging public feedback seeks to create a more transparent and inclusive approach to aquaculture development.

Economic and Social Impact

• The intended outcomes of the bill include economic growth through increased local seafood production, job creation in the aquaculture sector, and enhanced food security.
• Furthermore, it aims to strengthen resilience in coastal communities against environmental and economic disruptions.

Relevant Companies

• TSN (Tyson Foods, Inc.) - Tyson Foods may expand its operations into aquaculture to enhance its seafood offerings.
• AQUA (AquaBounty Technologies, Inc.) - As a leader in aquaculture technology, the company could directly benefit from new regulatory frameworks that promote sustainable practices.
• CART (Carver Bancorp, Inc.) - This bank focuses on community development and could see an increase in investment opportunities in aquaculture as a result of the bill.