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# Summary of H.R. 9802 — Marine Aquaculture Research for America Act of 2026 This bill directs the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to establish a new office and permitting system for commercial-scale offshore fish farming in federal waters. The legislation creates an assessment program to study the environmental and operational viability of offshore aquaculture through demonstration projects, with a focus on understanding how different farm designs can prevent fish escapes, protect marine wildlife, and coexist with existing commercial and recreational fishing. NOAA will issue permits for these demonstration projects, which can operate for up to 10 years with potential renewal, provided they meet strict environmental and safety standards including the use of native fish species and minimal reliance on wild-caught fish for feed. The bill establishes an Office of Aquaculture within NOAA's National Marine Fisheries Service with staff in each regional office to coordinate implementation, provide technical assistance to operators, and develop best management practices. It prioritizes applications from individuals negatively affected by the COVID-19 pandemic or natural disasters. Within five years, NOAA must publish a public report on the assessment program's findings, and the bill requires independent studies by the National Academies of Sciences and the Government Accountability Office to examine the environmental, economic, and regulatory aspects of offshore aquaculture. The legislation also mandates a coordinated federal permitting process across multiple agencies to streamline approvals while maintaining compliance with existing environmental and marine protection laws, with the goal of completing reviews within 240 days of application submission.

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