QUAHOGS Act of 2026
- Sponsor
- Rep. Amo, Gabe [D-RI-1]
- Committees
- Natural Resources Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Oct 22, 2026
Bottom line
This bill creates a task force to coordinate research and strategy for the conservation and sustainable management of East Coast bivalve populations, addressing declines and supporting the industry.
What it actually does
This bill establishes an East Coast Bivalve Research Task Force to review existing research, identify scientific gaps, and develop solutions for the increased variability and declining harvests of bivalve species, particularly quahogs (hard clams), in East Coast States. The task force is mandated to support sustainable bivalve fisheries and aquaculture operations, and to evaluate their economic impacts.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that the bill addresses a critical need to understand and reverse the decline in commercially and culturally important bivalve species, such as quahogs, along the East Coast. They emphasize the importance of coordinated scientific research, collaboration among diverse stakeholders, and the economic and ecological benefits of healthy bivalve populations and sustainable aquaculture.
Opponents contend
Potential critics might argue that establishing another task force adds bureaucratic layers without guaranteeing tangible results, or that existing agencies and research initiatives are sufficient to address these issues. They might also raise concerns about the potential cost of the task force, even with a vague 'such sums as may be necessary' authorization, or question the specific composition or focus areas.
The bill is concise and clearly structured, making it accessible for a quick but thorough understanding of its provisions.
Section 4(a)
Establishment of the East Coast Bivalve Research Task Force
This provision mandates the Secretary of Commerce, in consultation with regional fishery management councils and the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission, to convene a Research Task Force within 90 days of the Act's enactment. The task force is charged with reviewing existing bivalve research, identifying research needs related to declining harvests, and supporting sustainable bivalve fisheries and aquaculture, while also evaluating economic impacts.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that a dedicated task force is essential to bring together diverse expertise and coordinate efforts to address complex challenges facing East Coast bivalve populations, ensuring a holistic approach to research and management.
Critics contend
Critics might contend that existing federal and state agencies already have mandates and resources for marine research, and a new task force could duplicate efforts or add unnecessary bureaucracy without clear added value.
Tradeoffs
The tension lies between the perceived need for focused, coordinated research and the potential for creating another layer of government oversight that might overlap with existing responsibilities.
Section 4(b)
Task Force Composition and Appointment
This section details the composition of the Research Task Force, specifying it will have 16 to 21 members appointed by the Secretary of Commerce. Members will include representatives from NOAA, EPA, USDA, regional Fishery Management Councils, State fish and wildlife agencies, Indian Tribes, the bivalve fishing industry (commercial, recreational, tribal, processors, aquaculture), and academic experts in bivalve biology, ecology, restoration, aquaculture, and economics. The NOAA representative will chair the task force.
Section 4(c)
Task Force Review, Research Gaps, and Reporting Requirements
This section outlines the core duties of the Research Task Force, including conducting a comprehensive review of bivalve science, identifying research gaps, and proposing solutions. The review must cover traditional ecological knowledge, habitat requirements, impacts of erosion, climate change effects (warming, acidification, sea level rise), restoration techniques, mitigation strategies, culture and breeding, life cycle dynamics, disease prevalence, management strategies, and economic value of aquaculture. The task force is required to submit an interim progress report within one year and a final report with recommendations within two years to Congress and relevant Secretaries.
Section 4(d)
Establishment of Work Groups and Administrative Support
This provision mandates the establishment of two specific work groups within 30 days: one focused on quahog (hard clam) populations in Rhode Island and across the East Coast, and another on climate change impacts on East Coast bivalves. Additional regional or stock-focused work groups can be established. Work groups must consist of at least 5 knowledgeable individuals, including at least one task force member, and be balanced in stakeholder representation. Work groups are to submit findings to the main task force within two years. Members of the task force and work groups serve without compensation but are reimbursed for travel expenses. The Secretary of Commerce provides administrative support.