119th (2025–2027)
H.R. 5471
The Advancing Quality U.S. Aquaculture Act updates federal law to strengthen the U.S. aquaculture industry by establishing a new 14-member advisory committee to help the government develop better policies and provide technical support to fish and shellfish farmers. The bill requires the Department of Agriculture to conduct comprehensive reviews at least every three years and submit annual reports to Congress on the state of aquaculture, including information on federal spending, regulatory barriers, and capital constraints facing the industry. The legislation extends existing aquaculture programs through 2029, giving the government continued authority to support this growing sector. The advisory committee, which must include industry experts and farmers rather than federal employees, will meet at least three times annually to identify obstacles to success and recommend improvements to aquaculture practices and policies.