Supporting Equity for Aquaculture and Seafood Act
Supporting Equity for Aquaculture and Seafood Act
Plain Language Summary
# Supporting Equity for Aquaculture and Seafood Act (SEAS Act) - Summary **What the Bill Does:** The SEAS Act would require the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to increase support for aquaculture—the farming of fish, shellfish, and sea vegetables—to match the support given to traditional animal agriculture. The bill directs USDA to ensure aquaculture producers receive fair funding levels across existing USDA programs and competitive grants. It also calls for staff training on aquaculture practices and funding for research into cleaner, more efficient seafood farming technologies that reduce pollution and fuel consumption. **Who It Affects:** The bill primarily benefits aquaculture producers and farmers who raise seafood commercially.
It also supports research organizations, nonprofits, and regional aquaculture centers that would compete for grants to develop new farming technologies. Consumers could potentially benefit from more sustainable seafood production methods and increased domestic seafood supply. **Current Status:** HR 4898 is currently in committee and has not yet been voted on by Congress. The bill was introduced by Representative Frank Pallone (D-NJ) in the 119th Congress.
CRS Official Summary
Supporting Equity for Aquaculture and Seafood Act or the SEAS ActThis bill directs the Department of Agriculture (USDA) to increase support for aquaculture grants and assistance. Aquaculture is the controlled breeding, rearing, and harvesting of fish, shellfish, and sea vegetables.Specifically, the bill directs USDA to give aquaculture producers the same consideration as animal agriculture producers in awarding grants or other assistance. Further, USDA must ensure adequate and fair funding levels are provided to aquaculture producers under USDA programs. USDA must also provide its staff with specific education and trainings on aquaculture.USDA must make competitive grants (e.g., to regional aquaculture centers or nonprofit organizations) to develop next generation technology to reduce pollution and fuel usage in the seafood and aquaculture industries. Further, Agriculture and Food Research Initiative program grants must address methods of increasing the survival rate and adaptability of shellfish, including resistance to heat, disease, salinity, and acidification.In addition, the federal crop insurance program (FCIP) must research and develop a policy to insure aquaculture products. Further, the Federal Crop Insurance Corporation (the agency that finances FCIP operations) must establish a policy to insure aquaculture products.USDA must submit to Congress (1) an annual report that includes information on USDA seafood and aquaculture purchases and grants, and (2) a report on USDA's role in supporting aquaculture and the seafood industry.
Latest Action
Referred to the House Committee on Agriculture.