S.1369 - Protecting Global Fisheries Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
S.1369, the Protecting Global Fisheries Act of 2025, aims to combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing and trade in endangered species. The bill authorizes the President to impose sanctions on foreign persons and vessels involved in these activities. It also mandates international collaboration and reporting to Congress on the implementation of sanctions and global IUU fishing patterns.
The Act prioritizes collaboration with friendly countries and international institutions to address IUU fishing, particularly focusing on the actions of the People's Republic of China. It directs the Secretary of State to utilize the United States' influence in international forums to ensure the deployment of cutting-edge technology for maritime law enforcement and to hold accountable those involved in IUU fishing.
Sanctions may include blocking property, denying access to US ports, restricting loans from US financial institutions, and prohibiting foreign exchange transactions. The bill includes exceptions for authorized intelligence activities, compliance with international agreements, safety of vessels and crew, and humanitarian assistance (excluding food obtained through IUU fishing).
Expected Effects
The Act will likely lead to increased enforcement against IUU fishing and trade in endangered species by empowering the President to impose economic sanctions. This could deter foreign entities from engaging in these activities. It will also likely increase diplomatic pressure on countries that are not adequately addressing IUU fishing, particularly China.
Furthermore, the Act could lead to improved international collaboration in maritime law enforcement and resource management. The required reports and briefings will increase congressional oversight of these issues.
However, the effectiveness of the Act will depend on the President's willingness to use the authorized sanctions and the extent of international cooperation achieved.
Potential Benefits
- Protection of Endangered Species: The Act directly addresses the illegal trade in endangered species, contributing to their conservation.
- Promotion of Sustainable Fishing Practices: By targeting IUU fishing, the Act supports sustainable fisheries management and protects marine ecosystems.
- Enhanced International Cooperation: The Act encourages collaboration with allies and partners to combat IUU fishing, strengthening international relationships.
- Economic Benefits for US Fishermen: By leveling the playing field and reducing unfair competition from IUU fishing, the Act can benefit US fishermen and the seafood industry.
- Increased Transparency and Accountability: The reporting requirements ensure congressional oversight and public awareness of IUU fishing activities and enforcement efforts.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for Economic Retaliation: Sanctions imposed under the Act could lead to retaliatory measures from other countries, harming US businesses and consumers.
- Implementation Challenges: Enforcing sanctions and monitoring IUU fishing activities can be complex and resource-intensive.
- Risk of Unintended Consequences: Broadly applied sanctions could harm legitimate businesses or individuals indirectly involved in IUU fishing.
- National Interest Waivers: The President's ability to waive sanctions based on national interest could weaken the Act's effectiveness if used excessively.
- Increased diplomatic tensions: Focusing on one country (China) may increase diplomatic tensions.
Constitutional Alignment
The Act appears to align with the US Constitution, particularly Article I, Section 8, which grants Congress the power to regulate commerce with foreign nations. The Act's provisions for international collaboration and the imposition of sanctions fall under the purview of foreign policy, which is generally considered an executive branch responsibility, but is subject to congressional oversight and authorization.
The Act's focus on protecting endangered species and promoting sustainable fishing practices could be argued to fall under the General Welfare Clause of the Preamble, which aims to "promote the general Welfare." The Act does not appear to infringe on any specific individual rights or liberties protected by the Bill of Rights.
However, the broad delegation of authority to the President to impose sanctions could raise concerns about the separation of powers. The national interest waiver provision also grants the President significant discretion, which could be subject to judicial review if challenged.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).