S.1152 - Rhode Island Fishermen's Fairness Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
The Rhode Island Fishermen's Fairness Act of 2025 (S.1152) proposes to amend the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act by adding Rhode Island to the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council. This change aims to ensure Rhode Island's interests are better represented in federal fisheries management decisions. The bill also adjusts the council's membership numbers to reflect the addition of Rhode Island.
Expected Effects
If enacted, Rhode Island will gain a direct voice in the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council, potentially leading to policies more favorable to its fishing industry. The council's composition will change, with an increase in the total number of members. This could affect the balance of power and decision-making processes within the council.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced representation for Rhode Island's fishing industry in federal fisheries management.
- Potential for policies that better reflect the specific needs and concerns of Rhode Island fishermen.
- Increased opportunity for Rhode Island to influence regional fisheries management decisions.
- Could lead to more sustainable fishing practices tailored to Rhode Island's coastal environment.
- May foster greater collaboration between Rhode Island and other Mid-Atlantic states on fisheries issues.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased bureaucracy and complexity within the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council.
- Possible conflicts of interest or disagreements between Rhode Island and other member states.
- Concerns from other states about the shift in power dynamics within the council.
- Risk that the addition of Rhode Island could lead to policies that are detrimental to fisheries in other states.
- May not fully address all the challenges faced by Rhode Island fishermen.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8, Clause 3) of the U.S. Constitution, which grants Congress the power to regulate commerce with foreign nations, among the several states, and with Indian tribes. Fisheries management falls under the purview of interstate commerce, justifying federal regulation. The act does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or 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).