North Pacific Fishery Management Council Representation Enhancement Act of 2026

This bill changes federal fishery law to set membership rules for the North Pacific Fishery Management Council, which manages fisheries off Alaska. Of the 5 voting members from Alaska appointed by the Secretary, at least 1 would have to represent each of four groups: non-industrial commercial fishing, recreational fishing, rural subsistence users, and urban subsistence users. The bill defines these groups, including defining non-industrial commercial fishing as owner-operated operations using only vessels under 160 feet. The Governor of Alaska would have to note which group, if any, each nominee represents. The rules would apply to appointments made 1 year or more after the bill becomes law.

Full text and official record on Congress.gov

Sponsors

• Nicholas J. Begich III Republican sponsor
• 0 cosponsors