American Seafood Competitiveness Act of 2026
- Sponsor
- Sen. Murkowski, Lisa [R-AK]
- Committees
- Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Mar 26, 2026
Bottom line
The American Seafood Competitiveness Act of 2026 extends USDA and Farm Credit System financial support to the commercial fishing and fish processing sectors, aiming to bolster the domestic seafood industry.
What it actually does
This bill expands eligibility for various Department of Agriculture (USDA) loan and grant programs to include commercial fishing and fish processing businesses. It redefines "farming" to encompass these activities and allows Farm Credit System institutions to provide financial services to businesses that support aquatic product producers and harvesters. The bill aims to integrate the seafood industry into existing federal financial support structures traditionally focused on land-based agriculture.
Proponents argue
Proponents argue that this bill levels the playing field for the commercial fishing and fish processing industries, providing them with access to crucial financial tools that have long been available to traditional agricultural sectors. They contend it will strengthen the domestic seafood supply chain, enhance food security, promote economic development in coastal and rural communities, and support American jobs by making capital more accessible for permits, vessels, facilities, and operations.
Opponents contend
While no explicit organized opposition has been identified, potential critics might argue that expanding USDA's mandate to include commercial fishing could strain the agency's resources, require new expertise in a distinct industry, and potentially divert funds or attention from traditional agricultural borrowers. Concerns could also be raised about the Farm Credit System expanding its scope beyond its core agricultural focus, potentially introducing different risk profiles.
The bill is concise and its core provisions are clearly articulated, making it accessible for an informed reader to understand its implications within a reasonable timeframe.
Section 2(a)
Expanding Definitions for USDA Programs
This provision amends the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act to redefine "farming" to explicitly include "commercial fishing" and "fish processing." It also adds new definitions for terms such as "commercial fishing," "commercial fishing vessel," "fish," "fish processing," and "fish processing facility." This foundational change makes these industries eligible for various USDA programs by bringing them under the umbrella of activities considered "farming."
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that this definitional expansion rectifies an outdated framework, ensuring that a vital food production sector receives the same federal support as land-based agriculture. This change is seen as crucial for providing financial access to a key rural and coastal industry.
Critics contend
No specific opposition is typically raised against definitional expansions that broaden access to existing programs, assuming the underlying programs are sound and the agency can adapt. However, some might express concern about the potential for mission creep for USDA.
Tradeoffs
The primary tension involves balancing USDA's historical focus on traditional agriculture with the needs of a distinct, albeit related, industry like commercial fishing. It requires adapting existing frameworks to new contexts.
Section 2(b)
Expanding Farm Ownership Loan Eligibility
This section amends the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act to make individuals and entities engaged in commercial fishing or fish processing eligible for direct and guaranteed farm ownership loans. Commercial fishers can use these loans to acquire fishing permits, commercial fishing vessels, or make capital improvements to vessels. Fish processors can use them for acquiring or improving fish processing facilities.
Section 2(c)
Expanding Farm Operating Loan Eligibility
This provision amends the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act to extend eligibility for direct and guaranteed farm operating loans to commercial fishers and fish processors. Commercial fishers can use these loans for the costs associated with operating and maintaining a commercial fishing vessel, while fish processors can use them for the costs associated with operating and maintaining a fish processing facility.
Section 2(d)
Including Seafood in Local Agriculture Market Program and Waiving Matching Funds
This section amends the Agricultural Marketing Act of 1946 to include wild-caught fish as an eligible agricultural commodity for the Farmers' Markets and Local Food Promotion Program, explicitly allowing for domestic seafood marketing. Additionally, it grants the Secretary of Agriculture the authority to waive or reduce matching fund requirements for commercial fishing or fish processing grant recipients under this program, aiming to reduce financial barriers for these businesses.
Section 2(e)
Mandated Implementation and Interagency Coordination
This section mandates that, within one year of enactment, the Secretary of Agriculture must take necessary actions to ensure the successful integration of the commercial fishing industry into all newly eligible USDA programs. This includes providing outreach and technical assistance to the industry, offering guidance and training to relevant USDA personnel, and coordinating with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and other federal and state agencies.
Section 3(a)
Expanding Farm Credit Bank Eligibility
This provision amends the Farm Credit Act of 1971 to allow Farm Credit Banks to provide credit and financial services to "persons furnishing to producers or harvesters of aquatic products services directly related to their operating needs." This expands the client base of Farm Credit Banks beyond direct producers to include businesses that support the commercial fishing and aquaculture industries.
Section 3(b)
Expanding Production Credit Associations Eligibility
This provision amends the Farm Credit Act of 1971 to allow Production Credit Associations (PCAs) to provide credit to "persons furnishing to producers or harvesters of aquatic products services directly related to their operating needs." This mirrors the expansion for Farm Credit Banks, allowing PCAs to support businesses that provide essential services to the commercial fishing and aquaculture sectors.