Technical corrections only. The two versions of H.R. 207 are substantively identical, with the only differences being the procedural headers indicating the bill's status (Engrossed in House vs. Referred in Senate) and the attesting clerk. No substantive policy changes were made between v2 and v3.
SHARKED Act of 2025
- Sponsor
- Rep. Wittman, Robert J. [R-VA-1]
- Committees
- Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Jan 22, 2025
Bottom line
This bill creates a federal task force and expands research under existing law to better understand and mitigate shark depredation on fisheries, fostering collaboration between scientists and fishery managers.
What it actually does
This bill directs the Secretary of Commerce to establish a task force to identify and address critical needs related to shark depredation, which refers to sharks consuming fish caught by anglers before they can be landed. The task force will develop research priorities, management strategies, and educational materials. Additionally, the bill amends the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act to explicitly include projects aimed at better understanding and addressing shark depredation.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that the bill addresses a growing problem for the commercial and recreational fishing communities, which face significant economic losses due to shark depredation. They contend that establishing a dedicated task force will promote scientific understanding of shark behavior and ecology, facilitate the development of non-lethal deterrents, and improve coordination among stakeholders to find sustainable solutions.
Opponents contend
Critics might argue that the bill creates another bureaucratic layer without guaranteeing effective solutions, potentially diverting resources from other pressing marine conservation issues. Some may contend that existing federal agencies and research programs are already equipped to handle these concerns, making a new task force redundant or inefficient.
The bill is very short and clearly written, allowing ample time for a thorough evaluation by any interested reader.
Section 2(a)
Establishment of Shark Depredation Task Force
This provision directs the Secretary of Commerce to create a task force specifically focused on identifying and addressing critical needs related to shark depredation. The task force will include representatives from various Regional Fishery Management Councils, Marine Fisheries Commissions, coastal State fish and wildlife agencies, the National Marine Fisheries Service, and experts in highly migratory species, shark management, behavior, and ecology. The task force is mandated to terminate after 7 years.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that a dedicated task force with diverse representation is essential for a holistic approach to shark depredation, ensuring that all relevant perspectives and scientific expertise are brought to bear on this complex issue. This structure will foster better communication and more effective, coordinated solutions.
Critics contend
Some critics might suggest that creating a new task force adds an unnecessary layer of bureaucracy, potentially duplicating efforts that could be managed by existing agencies or through inter-agency working groups. They may question the efficiency of a time-limited task force for a potentially long-term issue.
Tradeoffs
The provision balances the need for focused, collaborative action on shark depredation with the potential for increased administrative overhead. It aims to bring together disparate groups, which can be challenging but also highly beneficial for comprehensive problem-solving.
Section 2(a)(3)
Task Force Responsibilities and Research Priorities
This section details the specific duties of the shark depredation task force. These responsibilities include improving coordination across the fisheries management and shark research communities, identifying key research priorities (such as shark species involved, stock assessments, habituation to humans, angler behavior, non-lethal deterrents, the ecological role of sharks, and climate change impacts), developing recommended management strategies, and coordinating the creation of educational materials for the fishing community to minimize shark interactions.
Section 2(b)
Amendment to Magnuson-Stevens Act for Shark Depredation Research
This provision amends Section 318(c) of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, which governs cooperative research and management programs. The amendment adds 'Projects to better understand shark depredation, including identifying what causes increases in shark depredation and determining how to best address shark depredation' to the list of eligible research projects. This ensures that federal research efforts under this act can explicitly focus on shark depredation.