Bills · HR 6939
IN COMMITTEE· 119TH CONGRESS
House BillHR 6939Public Lands and Natural Resources
Bycatch Reduction and Research Act of 2026
INTRO JAN 6· LAST ACTION JAN 6
READING
11MIN
COSPONSORS
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READER REACTIONS0 TOTAL
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- Introduced only
LEGISLATIVE PROGRESS
STEP 2 / 8Introduced
In Committee
Reported
Passed House
Passed Senate
Conference
To President
Became Law
WHAT THE BILL DOES
AI-writtenVoters should care about this bill because it addresses the critical issue of ocean health and sustainable food sources. Bycatch, the accidental capture of non-target species, is a major problem that can deplete fish populations, harm endangered species, and disrupt marine ecosystems. This bill aims to reduce bycatch and protect sensitive ocean floor habitats, which are crucial for the long-term health of our oceans and the fish we eat.
If this bill becomes law, it could lead to more accurate data on fish populations, new technologies that make fishing more environmentally friendly, and financial support for fishermen to adopt these practices. This could mean healthier oceans, more stable fish stocks for future generations, and more sustainable jobs in the fishing industry. If it doesn't pass, current levels of bycatch and habitat damage might continue, potentially leading to further decline in marine life and instability in fishing communities.
KEY PROVISIONS
5AI-extractedPROVISION 01
Reconstitutes and renames the Alaska Salmon Research Task Force to the "Bycatch Reduction and Research Task Force" and adds two academic experts.
This refocuses a key advisory group on the critical issue of bycatch and adds scientific expertise to guide research and policy.
PROVISION 02
Directs NOAA to form partnerships for salmon tagging research and create a grant program for faster genetic testing of salmon.
This provision aims to improve understanding of salmon migration and allow for real-time identification of salmon stocks, which is crucial for conservation and bycatch avoidance.
PROVISION 03
Requires NOAA to conduct research on the impact of trawl fishing gear on ocean floor habitats and review ecosystem changes affecting marine species.
This ensures a scientific basis for understanding and mitigating the environmental impact of fishing, which is essential for protecting vulnerable marine habitats and species.
PROVISION 04
Calls for the advancement and streamlining of electronic monitoring and reporting systems across U.S. fisheries.
This could improve transparency and accuracy in catch data, leading to better management decisions and enforcement of fishing regulations.
PROVISION 05
Establishes a fund to provide financial assistance for fishermen to purchase gear and technology that reduces bycatch and contact with marine benthic habitats.
This incentivizes the adoption of more sustainable fishing practices by directly supporting fishermen in acquiring necessary equipment.
SPONSORSHIP
1 + 0
R· Alaska
YRS IN OFFICE
1
BILLS LED
41
ACTION TIMELINE
2 EVENTSJAN 6
Introduced in House
JAN 6
Referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources.
BILL INFO
TypeHouse Bill
NumberHR 6939
Congress119th
StatusIn Committee
IntroducedJan 6, 2026
Last actionJan 6, 2026
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IN COMMITTEE· 119TH CONGRESS · NATURAL RESOURCES COMMITTEE · INTRODUCED JAN 6, 2026
House BillHR 6939Public Lands and Natural Resources
Bycatch Reduction and Research Act of 2026
INTRODUCED JAN 6, 2026· LAST ACTION JAN 6, 2026
PASSAGE CHANCES
—%
READING
11 min
COSPONSORS
0
COMPLEXITY
Moderate
