Referred to the Committee on Natural Resources, and in addition to the Committee on Education and the Workforce, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
# Summary
The SEAfood Act (Science-based Equitable Aquaculture Food Act) establishes a federal framework to develop and test offshore fish farming in U.S. waters. The legislation directs the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to commission an independent scientific study on whether offshore aquaculture is viable and safe, then create a demonstration program to evaluate up to four commercial-scale farm projects. These pilot projects must use native species, minimize escape risks and pollution, comply with environmental laws protecting endangered species and marine mammals, and report detailed data on their operations and environmental impacts. The bill prioritizes projects owned by veterans, members of underserved communities, and those that benefit people hurt by the pandemic or natural disasters. Additionally, the law authorizes $25 million annually from 2024 through 2027 to help minority-serving institutions, historically Black colleges, and Tribal colleges establish aquaculture education programs. The Government Accountability Office must also examine the current state of offshore aquaculture regulation and provide recommendations for future development. Overall, the legislation aims to advance U.S. seafood production while protecting marine ecosystems, ensuring equitable participation in the industry, and gathering scientific evidence to guide future policy.
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