Aquaculture and seafood producers would be eligible for federal grants, scientific research opportunities, and agricultural development initiatives under newly introduced bipartisan legislation offered on Aug. 5 by U.S. Rep. Kat Cammack (R-FL).
“America’s national security is closely tied to our food security,” Rep. Cammack said. “As aquaculture continues to advance with new technologies and techniques, it offers the promise of more affordable, sustainable, and safe seafood for American families.”
The congresswoman cosponsored the Supporting Equity for Aquaculture and Seafood (SEAS) Act, H.R. 4898, with bill sponsor U.S. Rep. Frank Pallone (D-NJ) to ensure aquaculture and seafood producers are eligible for key U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) programs, including conservation, research, and technical assistance initiatives.
The bill also would direct the USDA to develop a strategy to integrate aquaculture more fully into its mission, including coordination across agencies.
Additionally, H.R. 4898 would promote equity for coastal and inland aquaculture producers, including those producing fish, shellfish, and other aquatic organisms, and support research and development for innovative, sustainable practices in seafood production, according to a bill summary provided by the lawmakers.
“Aquaculture has enormous potential to strengthen our food system, reduce our seafood trade deficit, and expand access to safe, sustainable American seafood,” said Rep. Pallone. “But for too long, USDA programs have overlooked coastal producers. The SEAS Act fixes that by putting seafood on equal footing with traditional agriculture and making smart investments to help this industry grow.”
H.R. 4898 has been referred to the U.S. House Agriculture Committee for consideration.