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HR 1917

Great Lakes Mass Marking Program Act of 2025

119th Congress Introduced by Jack Bergman and 6 co-sponsors

HR 1917 establishes a mass marking program for hatchery fish in the Great Lakes, enhancing fish management and supporting native species recovery, benefiting local economies.

Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Environment and Public Works.
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Bill Summary · HR 1917

Summary of HR 1917: Great Lakes Mass Marking Program Act of 2025

Purpose and Intent

The Great Lakes Mass Marking Program Act of 2025 (HR 1917) aims to establish a comprehensive program for the mass marking of hatchery-produced fish in the Great Lakes. This initiative seeks to enhance fisheries management and support the recovery of native fish species in the region, which has been adversely affected by invasive species and ecological changes.

Key Provisions

  1. Establishment of the Program:

    • The bill creates the Great Lakes Mass Marking Program under the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS).
    • The program will facilitate the tagging of hatchery-produced fish to improve data collection and management decisions regarding fish populations.

  2. Authorized Actions:

    • The Director of the USFWS is empowered to:
      • Purchase necessary equipment and fish tags.
      • Hire additional personnel to support tagging and data operations.

  3. Collaboration Requirements:

    • The program mandates collaboration with Federal, State, and Tribal fish management agencies, as well as the Council of Lake Committees of the Great Lakes Fishery Commission.

  4. Data Availability:

    • Data collected through the program will be shared with relevant agencies to:
      • Assess management actions and restoration objectives.
      • Balance predator-prey dynamics.
      • Support the economic viability of Tribal, recreational, and commercial fisheries.

  5. Funding Authorization:

    • The bill authorizes $2.7 million annually for fiscal years 2026 through 2030 to implement the program.

Background and Need for Legislation

The Great Lakes are home to a diverse ecosystem, including 177 fish species, with an economic value exceeding $7 billion annually. However, invasive species such as the Sea Lamprey and various carp species have significantly impacted native fish populations. The mass marking program, which began in 2010 on a limited scale, has proven essential for managing hatchery fish and understanding their impact on wild fish populations.

Impact

The implementation of HR 1917 is expected to:
- Improve the management of fish populations in the Great Lakes.
- Enhance the recovery of native species through better data and collaborative efforts.
- Support the economic stability of fisheries that provide jobs and recreational opportunities in the region.

Legislative Status

  • Introduced: March 6, 2025
  • House Actions: Passed by the House on July 22, 2025, with a vote of 360-57.
  • Senate Actions: Received in the Senate on July 23, 2025, and referred to the Committee on Environment and Public Works.

Conclusion

The Great Lakes Mass Marking Program Act of 2025 represents a significant step towards improving fishery management in one of the United States' most vital ecosystems. By establishing a structured program for mass marking, the bill aims to enhance data collection and support the recovery of native fish species, ultimately benefiting both the environment and the economy.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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