Fisheries Modernization Act of 2025
Summary
The Fisheries Modernization Act of 2025 amends the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act to include certain freshwater fisheries, specifically red swamp crawfish and white river crawfish fisheries, for fishery resource disaster relief. It broadens the definition of disaster events to include infrastructure-related causes, such as failures of flood control systems, spillways, levees, and diversions. This expansion aims to provide financial assistance to fisheries impacted by these events.
Expected Effects
The Act will likely increase the availability of disaster relief funds for freshwater fisheries affected by infrastructure failures and environmental disruptions. This could lead to quicker recovery for affected fishing communities and businesses. The inclusion of specific crawfish species acknowledges their economic importance and vulnerability to environmental changes.
Potential Benefits
- Provides financial assistance to freshwater fisheries impacted by infrastructure failures.
- Expands the definition of fishery resource disaster to include infrastructure-related causes.
- Specifically addresses the needs of red swamp crawfish and white river crawfish fisheries.
- Could lead to more resilient fishing communities.
- Supports the economic stability of regions dependent on freshwater fisheries.
Potential Disadvantages
- May increase the demand on existing disaster relief funds, potentially reducing the amount available for other fisheries.
- Could create bureaucratic challenges in determining eligibility for disaster relief.
- The focus on specific crawfish species might be perceived as preferential treatment.
- Potential for unintended consequences related to infrastructure management and environmental impacts.
- Might not fully address the underlying causes of fishery disasters.
Constitutional Alignment
The Act appears to align with the General Welfare Clause of the Constitution, as it aims to support the economic well-being of communities dependent on freshwater fisheries. Article I, Section 8 grants Congress the power to regulate commerce, which includes fisheries. The Act does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).