H.R.2375 - Rhode Island Fishermen’s Fairness Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2375, the Rhode Island Fishermen's Fairness Act of 2025, proposes amending the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act to include Rhode Island in the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council. This bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on March 26, 2025, and referred to the Committee on Natural Resources.
The primary aim is to ensure Rhode Island's representation in fisheries management decisions affecting the region. This involves modifying Section 302(a)(1)(B) of the existing Act to reflect Rhode Island's inclusion.
Ultimately, the bill seeks to provide Rhode Island fishermen with a greater voice in the regulatory processes governing their industry.
Expected Effects
The bill's passage would directly result in Rhode Island having a seat on the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council. This would allow the state to participate in decisions regarding fishery management plans, regulations, and allocations within the Mid-Atlantic region.
Rhode Island fishermen would likely have increased influence over policies affecting their livelihoods. The change could also lead to adjustments in fishing quotas, conservation measures, and other regulatory actions within the region.
Potential Benefits
- Increased representation for Rhode Island fishermen in regional fisheries management.
- Potential for policies more tailored to the specific needs and concerns of Rhode Island's fishing industry.
- Enhanced ability to advocate for sustainable fishing practices that support local economies.
- Greater opportunity to influence the allocation of fishing quotas and resources.
- Improved collaboration between Rhode Island and other Mid-Atlantic states on fisheries management issues.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased bureaucracy and complexity in the fisheries management process.
- Possible conflicts of interest or disagreements between Rhode Island and other member states of the Council.
- Risk that the inclusion of Rhode Island could lead to shifts in fishing quotas or regulations that negatively impact fishermen in other states.
- Concerns that the change could prioritize local interests over broader regional or national conservation goals.
- Administrative costs associated with adding Rhode Island to the Council.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8, Clause 3) of the U.S. Constitution, which grants Congress the power to regulate interstate commerce, including fisheries management. By amending the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, Congress is exercising its authority to regulate commerce among the states.
Furthermore, the bill does not appear to infringe upon any individual liberties or rights protected by the Constitution or its amendments. It primarily focuses on the structure and composition of a regional fisheries management council.
Therefore, the bill seems constitutionally sound, as it falls within the scope of Congress's enumerated powers and does not violate any constitutional limitations.
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).