MARA Act of 2026
The source supplies the latest action, but no lifecycle stage.
Latest action (21 Jul 2026): Referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources.
What this bill does
The MARA Act of 2026, if enacted, would require the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to establish a program to assess the viability of commercial-scale offshore aquaculture through demonstration projects. This program would examine factors like facility designs, operational methods, and the prevention of environmental and navigational impacts. It would also authorize permits for such demonstration projects, with specific eligibility requirements focused on minimizing ecological harm and conflicts with existing ocean uses.
The bill aims to support the development of the aquaculture industry in the United States. It would affect companies seeking to operate offshore aquaculture facilities, requiring them to meet specific environmental and operational standards for demonstration projects. The bill also intends to support workforce development in the seafood industry and reduce the U.S. seafood trade deficit by increasing domestic supply.
This bill has been introduced in the House of Representatives and referred to the Committee on Natural Resources. Its next steps in the legislative process would involve committee review, potential hearings, and consideration for a vote on the House floor. If passed by the House, it would then proceed to the Senate for a similar review process.
Plain-English summary generated by Bill100 AI from the official record. Always verify against the source below.
Timeline
21 Jul 2026
Referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources.
Common questions
- What does H.R. 9802 do?
- The MARA Act of 2026, if enacted, would require the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to establish a program to assess the viability of commercial-scale offshore aquaculture through demonstration projects. This program would examine factors like facility designs, operational methods, and the prevention of environmental and navigational impacts. It would also authorize permits for such demonstration projects, with specific eligibility requirements focused on minimizing ecological harm and conflicts with existing ocean uses. The bill aims to support the development of the aquaculture industry in the United States. It would affect companies seeking to operate offshore aquaculture facilities, requiring them to meet specific environmental and operational standards for demonstration projects. The bill also intends to support workforce development in the seafood industry and reduce the U.S. seafood trade deficit by increasing domestic supply. This bill has been introduced in the House of Representatives and referred to the Committee on Natural Resources. Its next steps in the legislative process would involve committee review, potential hearings, and consideration for a vote on the House floor. If passed by the House, it would then proceed to the Senate for a similar review process.
- Has H.R. 9802 become law?
- The source does not supply a confirmed lifecycle stage for H.R. 9802. Check the latest action and official source below.
- Who sponsored H.R. 9802?
- H.R. 9802 was sponsored by Rep. Ezell, Mike [R-MS-4] (R-MS), with 7 cosponsors.
- What's the latest action on H.R. 9802?
- Referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources. (21 Jul 2026).
Related bills in Public Lands and Natural Resources
Health Forests Incentives Act of 2026
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Reversionary Interest Conveyance Act
Vicksburg National Military Park Boundary Modification Act
More bills from Rep. Ezell, Mike [R-MS-4]
To amend the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972 to change certain requirements regarding certain allowed take of marine mammals, and for other purposes.
Regional Ocean Partnerships Reauthorization Act
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