U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, & Transportation

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Commerce Committee Chairman Daniel K. Inouye (D-Hawaii) and Vice Chairman Ted Stevens (R-Alaska) introduced today, by request of the Administration, the National Offshore Aquaculture Act. Chairman Inouye simultaneously introduced three amendments, and cosponsored a fourth amendment introduced by Vice Chairman Stevens, that bolster environmental safeguards and protect native fish species.

“Mr. President. I rise today to introduce, by request of the Administration, the National Offshore Aquaculture Act of 2007. I am joined by Senator Stevens, the Vice Chairman of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee. This bill would authorize the Secretary of Commerce to establish and implement a regulatory system for offshore aquaculture in the U.S. Exclusive Economic Zone. While Senator Stevens and I understand this is a top priority for the Administration, we continue to have concerns with the Administration’s bill as drafted, particularly with regard to the need for clearer safeguards for the environment and native fish stocks. Therefore, we are also filing several amendments that would address these concerns. The three amendments that I am filing, and which Senator Stevens is cosponsoring, would strengthen requirements to address potential environmental risks from offshore aquaculture, including to native species; require a more comprehensive research and development program for offshore aquaculture; and ensure that offshore aquaculture permits could only be provided to citizens, residents, or business entities of the United States. Senator Stevens is also filing an amendment, which I am cosponsoring, that would prohibit offshore aquaculture of finfish in the Exclusive Economic Zone off the coast of Alaska. I intend to introduce later this year a comprehensive bill that would address additional concerns with the Administration’s proposed legislation.”