S.1947 - Opposing the Cultivation and Trade of Octopus Produced through Unethical Strategies Act of 2025; OCTOPUS Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
S.1947, the OCTOPUS Act of 2025, aims to prohibit commercial octopus aquaculture within the United States, its exclusive economic zone, and its waters. It also prohibits the importation and re-export of commercially farmed octopus. The bill outlines definitions, exceptions for research and public display, and penalties for violations.
Expected Effects
The bill, if enacted, would prevent the establishment of octopus farms in the US and restrict the trade of farmed octopus. This could impact seafood markets and potentially protect wild octopus populations. It mandates reporting of harvest methods for imported octopus.
Potential Benefits 4/5
- Protects wild octopus populations from potential overfishing due to aquaculture demand.
- Ensures ethical treatment of octopuses by preventing potentially inhumane farming practices.
- Maintains the integrity of marine ecosystems by avoiding potential pollution and disease spread from octopus farms.
- Provides consumers with assurance that imported octopus are harvested through sustainable methods.
- Supports the image of the US as a leader in ethical and sustainable seafood practices.
Potential Disadvantages
- May limit the availability of octopus as a food source, potentially increasing prices.
- Could hinder the development of a new aquaculture industry within the US.
- May negatively impact businesses that rely on the import or re-export of octopus.
- Enforcement of the import ban could be challenging and costly.
- Potential trade disputes with countries that engage in octopus aquaculture.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment 4/5
The bill aligns with the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8, Clause 3) by regulating interstate and international commerce related to octopus. It does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or freedoms. The Act empowers the Secretary of Commerce and Secretary of Interior to enact rules and regulations, which is consistent with the delegation of authority from Congress to the executive branch.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to citizens. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).