Marine Aquaculture Research for America Act of 2025; MARA Act of 2025
Summary
The Marine Aquaculture Research for America Act of 2025 (MARA Act) aims to promote and regulate offshore aquaculture in the United States. It directs the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to establish an assessment program for commercial-scale offshore aquaculture through demonstration projects. The act also establishes Aquaculture Centers of Excellence and supports workforce development and working waterfronts.
Expected Effects
The MARA Act is likely to spur growth in the domestic seafood industry by expanding aquaculture. It will also lead to increased research and development in sustainable aquaculture practices. The act could also create new jobs and support existing ones in the seafood industry.
Potential Benefits
- Increased domestic seafood production, potentially reducing the seafood trade deficit.
- Creation of new jobs in aquaculture and related industries.
- Advancements in sustainable aquaculture technologies and practices.
- Support for working waterfronts and coastal communities.
- Establishment of Aquaculture Centers of Excellence to foster education and research.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential environmental risks associated with offshore aquaculture, such as pollution and impacts on marine ecosystems.
- Possible conflicts with existing uses of the marine environment, including fishing and navigation.
- Regulatory hurdles and permitting challenges for aquaculture operations.
- Potential impacts on wild-capture fisheries markets.
- The Act may lead to unintended consequences if performance standards are not properly developed.
Constitutional Alignment
The MARA Act appears to align with the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8, Clause 3) of the U.S. Constitution, which grants Congress the power to regulate commerce with foreign nations, among the several states, and with Indian tribes. By promoting domestic aquaculture, the act seeks to influence interstate and international commerce in seafood. The Act does not appear to infringe upon any specific individual rights enumerated in the Bill of Rights.
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).