Save Great Lakes Fish Act of 2025; SGLF Act of 2025
Summary
The Save Great Lakes Fish Act of 2025 (SGLF Act of 2025) aims to combat invasive mussel species in the Great Lakes. It amends the Great Lakes Fishery Act of 1956, authorizing the Great Lakes Fishery Commission to develop strategies in coordination with federal, state, tribal, and local entities. The Act allocates $500 million from 2026 to 2035 for these efforts, supplementing existing appropriations.
Expected Effects
The Act will likely lead to increased efforts to control invasive mussel populations in the Great Lakes. This could result in improved ecosystem health and reduced economic impacts associated with these invasive species. Federal agencies like the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and NOAA would provide assistance.
Potential Benefits
- Improved Great Lakes ecosystem health.
- Protection of native fish populations.
- Potential reduction in costs associated with managing invasive mussels (e.g., water infrastructure maintenance).
- Enhanced collaboration among federal, state, tribal, and local entities.
- Potential for new technologies and strategies in invasive species management.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- The $500 million appropriation could increase the federal budget deficit.
- The effectiveness of the strategies developed may vary.
- Potential for unintended consequences from invasive species management efforts.
- The Act focuses solely on mussels, potentially neglecting other invasive species.
- The Act's success depends on effective coordination among various governmental and non-governmental bodies.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The Act aligns with the General Welfare Clause (Article I, Section 8) by promoting the health of a vital natural resource. Congress has the power to regulate commerce, and the Great Lakes are a significant waterway for interstate and international commerce. The necessary and proper clause allows congress to enact laws to carry out foregoing powers.
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).