December 3, 2025 — The following was released by NOAA Fisheries:
NOAA Fisheries is announcing that the public comment period on Regulatory Reform, Seafood Industry Challenges, and Innovative Approaches in response to the Executive Order Restoring American Seafood Competitiveness is reopened from December 1, 2025 to December 15, 2025. Comments must be received by 11:59 p.m. EDT (7:59 p.m. AKT) on December 15, 2025.
Specifically, we are looking for input on the following issues:
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Regulations that govern fishing activities that may be suspended, revised, or rescinded
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Challenges specific fisheries are facing, suggestions for innovative improvements, and examples of existing federal fishery regulations that could be modified to enhance U.S. fishing businesses
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Ways to improve fisheries management and science:
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How can less expensive and more reliable technologies and cooperative research be used to support fisheries assessments?
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How can NOAA Fisheries improve and modernize how it collects and uses data so federal fishery regulations better reflect what’s happening on the water right now?
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What types of data, tools, or information do U.S. fishing businesses need most to deal with changing economic and/or environmental conditions and keep fishing? How can NOAA Fisheries best support the development and use of these resources?
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How to expand exempted fishing permit programs to promote fishing opportunities nationwide
Public comments will be used to help identify specific actions we can take as we launch a bold, coordinated effort to revitalize the U.S. seafood sector. The effort underscores our commitment to addressing the recent decline in fisheries landings and revenue, boosting sustainable aquaculture, reducing the seafood trade deficit, and strengthening supply chain resilience.
Additionally, NOAA Fisheries will host a public listening session to receive public comments on Monday, December 8, from noon–1:00 p.m. AKT. Online registration is now available.
More information about the opportunity for public comment is available on the Federal Register and the NOAA Fisheries website.