Source: POLITICO'S MORNING AGRICULTURE, 6/6/22

A majority of voters support expanding seafood farming in federal waters, according to a survey commissioned by Stronger America Through Seafood , an advocacy group that represents the aquaculture industry. The topic is at the center of a heated political debate, with some lawmakers arguing the move threatens commercial fishing jobs and local ecosystems.

“The lack of a clear and predictable policy framework for permitting offshore aquaculture hinders growth of an American industry,” Sarah Brenholt, campaign manager of SATS, said in a statement.

The U.S. imports about 85 percent of its seafood, and the nation’s aquaculture industry accounts for only 0.6 percent of the world market, according to SATS.

Background: In 2020, former President Donald Trump issued an executive order to promote American Seafood Competitiveness and Economic Growth. Since then, the bipartisan AQUAA Act is awaiting committee hearings in the House and in the Senate, as Hannah previously reported.

It’s not all smooth sailing. The late Rep. Don Young (R-Alaska) introduced the Keep Finfish Free Act . The bill, which has yet to pass, also has bipartisan support and aims to keep aquaculture farms out of federal waters.