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HR 1514

Mississippi River Basin Fishery Commission Act of 2025

119th Congress Introduced by Mike Bost and 9 co-sponsors

The Mississippi River Basin Fishery Commission Act of 2025 creates a commission to manage fishery resources, ensuring healthier ecosystems and boosting local economies.

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Bill Summary · HR 1514

Summary of HR 1514: Mississippi River Basin Fishery Commission Act of 2025

Overview

The Mississippi River Basin Fishery Commission Act of 2025 (HR 1514) aims to establish a dedicated commission to oversee and manage fishery resources within the Mississippi River Basin. This legislation is designed to enhance the sustainability and health of fish populations and their habitats in this vital ecosystem.

Key Provisions

The bill includes several important sections that outline its structure and intended functions:

  1. Short Title and Table of Contents: The Act is officially titled the Mississippi River Basin Fishery Commission Act of 2025.

  2. Findings: This section presents the rationale for the establishment of the commission, likely addressing the ecological and economic importance of the Mississippi River Basin fisheries.

  3. Definitions: Key terms used throughout the Act are defined to ensure clarity and consistency in interpretation.

  4. Establishment of the Commission: The bill proposes the creation of the Mississippi River Basin Fishery Commission, which will be responsible for managing fishery resources in the basin.

  5. Commission Governance: This section outlines the governance structure of the commission, including membership and leadership roles.

  6. Commission Management Duties: The commission will have specific responsibilities related to the management and conservation of fishery resources, including setting regulations and guidelines.

  7. Commission Grant Program: The Act establishes a grant program to support projects that enhance fishery management and conservation efforts within the basin.

  8. Nonbinding Authority: The commission will have nonbinding authority, suggesting that its recommendations may guide but not mandate actions by other entities.

  9. Withdrawal from the Commission: Procedures for member states or entities to withdraw from the commission are outlined.

  10. Report to Congress: The commission will be required to submit periodic reports to Congress detailing its activities and the status of fishery resources.

  11. Appropriations: This section addresses the funding necessary for the commission to operate effectively.

Impact

The establishment of the Mississippi River Basin Fishery Commission is expected to have several impacts:

  • Environmental: Improved management of fishery resources could lead to healthier fish populations and ecosystems in the Mississippi River Basin.

  • Economic: Sustainable fisheries can enhance local economies that rely on fishing and related industries.

  • Collaboration: The commission may foster collaboration among states and stakeholders, promoting a unified approach to fishery management.

Legislative Status

  • Introduced: February 24, 2025
  • Referred to House Committee on Natural Resources: February 24, 2025
  • Referred to Subcommittee on Water, Wildlife and Fisheries: November 12, 2025

Sponsors

The bill is sponsored by Mike Ezell and has several cosponsors, including:
- Troy A. Carter
- CLEO FIELDS
- Bennie G. Thompson
- Steve Cohen
- Mike Bost
- Clay Higgins

Related Legislation

HR 1514 has a companion bill, S 1078, which is likely to address similar issues in the Senate.

This summary provides a comprehensive overview of HR 1514, highlighting its purpose, key provisions, and potential impacts on fishery management in the Mississippi River Basin.

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

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