S.1078 - Mississippi River Basin Fishery Commission Act (119th Congress)
Summary
S.1078, the Mississippi River Basin Fishery Commission Act, aims to establish a commission to manage and protect the fishery resources within the Mississippi River Basin. This involves collaboration among 31 states, federal agencies, and Canadian provinces to address the complex challenges facing the basin's ecosystem. The act outlines the commission's governance, duties, grant program, and reporting requirements to Congress.
Expected Effects
The establishment of the Mississippi River Basin Fishery Commission is intended to improve the sustainability and management of interjurisdictional fisheries. This will be achieved through coordinated efforts to control aquatic invasive species and implement management plans across the basin. The commission will also provide grants to support eligible projects and research related to fishery resources.
Potential Benefits
- Improved management of interjurisdictional fishery resources.
- Enhanced control of aquatic invasive species, particularly invasive carp.
- Increased collaboration among states, federal agencies, and tribes.
- Grant funding for research and projects related to fishery management.
- Long-term biologic and economic sustainability of the Mississippi River Basin.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for bureaucratic inefficiencies with a new commission.
- Possible conflicts between state and federal management objectives.
- Financial burden on taxpayers through appropriations for the commission and grant programs.
- Non-binding authority may limit the commission's effectiveness.
- Risk of political influence affecting the commission's decisions.
Constitutional Alignment
The establishment of the Mississippi River Basin Fishery Commission aligns with the General Welfare Clause (Article I, Section 8) of the U.S. Constitution, which allows Congress to enact laws that promote the well-being of the nation. The Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8) also supports federal regulation of activities that affect interstate commerce, including fisheries management. The Tenth Amendment reserves powers not delegated to the federal government to the states, but this act seeks cooperation rather than direct federal control, which is consistent with the intent of federalism.
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).