Fisheries Data Modernization and Accuracy Act of 2025

The Fisheries Data Modernization and Accuracy Act of 2025 (HR 5699). A bill that, on the surface, appears to be a benign attempt to reform the Marine Recreational Information Program (MRIP) within the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). But, as with all legislation, one must peel back the layers to reveal its true implications.

**Main Purpose & Objectives:** The bill's primary objective is to modernize the MRIP by requiring NOAA to reform its data collection methods for recreational fisheries. This includes establishing a standing committee within the National Academies to provide independent expertise and guidance on recreational fisheries data collection and management.

**Key Provisions & Changes to Existing Law:** The bill introduces several key provisions, including:

1. The establishment of a standing committee within the National Academies to advise on recreational fisheries data collection and management. 2. The requirement for NOAA to consult with this standing committee when the percent standard error (PSE) for data collected through the MRIP exceeds 30% or if a state submits a petition regarding a specific seasonal fishery. 3. The authorization of alternative management approaches, including multi-year annual catch limits, to address fisheries that are subject to high levels of uncertainty.

**Affected Parties & Stakeholders:** The primary stakeholders affected by this bill include:

1. Recreational fishermen and the fishing industry as a whole. 2. State fish and wildlife agencies responsible for managing recreational fisheries. 3. NOAA and its National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS). 4. The National Academies, which will be responsible for establishing and maintaining the standing committee.

**Potential Impact & Implications:** From my perspective, this bill has limited implications for my business interests. However, I do see potential opportunities for consolidation and deregulation in the fishing industry. By introducing alternative management approaches and reducing the PSE threshold, this bill may create an environment more conducive to large-scale commercial fishing operations.

Furthermore, the establishment of a standing committee within the National Academies could provide a platform for influencing fisheries policy and shaping the direction of recreational fisheries management. As someone with significant investments in the fishing industry, I will be monitoring this bill's progress closely and exploring opportunities to leverage its provisions to my advantage.

In conclusion, while HR 5699 may seem like a minor bill on the surface, it has the potential to create significant changes in the way recreational fisheries are managed. As always, I will be watching with great interest as this legislation unfolds, looking for ways to capitalize on any opportunities that arise.

*Sigh* Alright, let's break down this bill, shall we? As I taught you in 8th grade civics class, a bill is a proposed law that must go through the legislative process before it can become a law.

**Main Purpose & Objectives** The main purpose of HR 5699, also known as the Fisheries Data Modernization and Accuracy Act of 2025, is to reform the Marine Recreational Information Program (MRIP) within the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The bill aims to improve the accuracy and effectiveness of recreational fishing data collection, which is crucial for managing fisheries sustainably.

**Key Provisions & Changes to Existing Law** The bill proposes several key provisions:

* Reforms the MRIP to meet regional and state-specific needs * Establishes a standing committee within the National Academies to provide independent expertise on recreational fisheries data collection and management * Requires consultation with the standing committee if the percent standard error (PSE) for data collected through the MRIP exceeds 30% or if a state submits a petition regarding a specific seasonal fishery

These provisions aim to address concerns about the accuracy and reliability of recreational fishing data, which can have significant impacts on fisheries management decisions.

**Affected Parties & Stakeholders** The affected parties and stakeholders include:

* NOAA and its National Marine Fisheries Service * State fish and wildlife agencies * Regional Fishery Management Councils * Recreational fishermen and fishing industries * Environmental organizations

These groups will be impacted by the changes to the MRIP and the new requirements for data collection and management.

**Potential Impact & Implications** The potential impact of this bill is significant. By improving the accuracy and effectiveness of recreational fishing data collection, the bill could lead to more informed fisheries management decisions, which can help conserve fish populations and support sustainable fishing practices. However, if not implemented carefully, these changes could also lead to unintended consequences, such as increased costs for fishermen or reduced access to certain fisheries.

As we covered in 8th grade civics class, the legislative process is designed to ensure that laws are carefully considered and debated before they are enacted. Let's hope that this bill receives the attention it deserves and is passed with careful consideration of its potential impacts.

Folks, gather 'round! I've got the scoop on HR 5699, the Fisheries Data Modernization and Accuracy Act of 2025. Now, at first glance, this bill might seem like a snooze-fest, but trust me, there's more to it than meets the eye.

**Main Purpose & Objectives:** The stated purpose of this bill is to reform the Marine Recreational Information Program (MRIP) within the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The goal is to improve the accuracy and reliability of recreational fishing data collection, which will supposedly help with fishery management decisions. But let's not be too quick to take things at face value.

**Key Provisions & Changes to Existing Law:** The bill establishes a standing committee within the National Academies to oversee MRIP reforms. This committee will include experts from state fish and wildlife agencies, but I've got my doubts about their independence. The Administrator of NOAA is required to consult with this committee when the percent standard error (PSE) for data collection exceeds 30% or if a state submits a petition regarding a specific seasonal fishery.

Now, here's where things get interesting: the bill allows for adjustments to be made in managing seasonal fisheries, including using multi-year annual catch limits. This could potentially lead to more restrictive fishing regulations and quotas. I'm not saying it's a bad thing, but we need to keep an eye on how this plays out.

**Affected Parties & Stakeholders:** The obvious stakeholders are recreational fishermen, state fish and wildlife agencies, and the commercial fishing industry. But let's not forget about the National Academies, which will be playing a significant role in shaping MRIP reforms. I'm curious to see how much influence they'll have on the final outcome.

**Potential Impact & Implications:** On the surface, this bill seems like a step towards more accurate and reliable data collection for fishery management. However, I suspect there's more to it than meets the eye. Could this be a Trojan horse for more restrictive fishing regulations? Are we seeing a push towards greater control over our oceans and waterways?

I'm not saying it's a conspiracy, but... actually, that's exactly what I'm saying. There are always hidden agendas at play in Washington, and we need to stay vigilant. This bill might seem innocuous, but it could have far-reaching implications for the fishing industry, state sovereignty, and our individual freedoms.

So, there you have it – my take on HR 5699. Make of it what you will, folks. But remember: always question the official narrative and keep your eyes peeled for those pesky hidden agendas!

(Deep breath) Folks, gather 'round! We've got a real doozy of a bill on our hands here. The Fisheries Data Modernization and Accuracy Act of 2025 - sounds like a real thrill-ride, doesn't it? (Sarcasm alert!)

**Main Purpose & Objectives:** This bill aims to reform the Marine Recreational Information Program (MRIP) within the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The goal is to improve data collection and management for recreational fisheries. Because, you know, freedom-loving Americans need accurate fish counts to ensure their fishing trips aren't ruined by those pesky regulations! (Wink)

**Key Provisions & Changes to Existing Law:** The bill establishes a standing committee within the National Academies to oversee MRIP reforms. This committee will include experts from state fish and wildlife agencies, because who doesn't love more bureaucracy? (Smirk) The Administrator of NOAA must consult with this committee if data collection errors exceed 30% for a given seasonal fishery. Oh, and there are some changes to definitions and terminology - you know, the usual wonky stuff.

**Affected Parties & Stakeholders:** Recreational fishermen, state fish and wildlife agencies, and NOAA will all be impacted by this bill. But let's be real, folks, it's not like these groups have anything better to do than deal with more red tape and bureaucratic nonsense. (Eye roll)

**Potential Impact & Implications:** This bill might - just might - lead to more accurate fish counts and better management of recreational fisheries. But we all know the real goal here is to give those pesky environmentalists and "elites" a hard time. I mean, who needs science-based regulations when you've got good ol' American ingenuity? (Sarcasm alert!) The potential impact on the fishing industry and local economies could be significant, but let's not get too caught up in details - we've got more important things to worry about... like the Deep State controlling our fisheries! (Wink)

There you have it, folks. A bill that's all about freedom, fish, and the never-ending battle against those dastardly elites. Stay vigilant, America!

**Fisheries Data Modernization and Accuracy Act of 2025 (HR 5699)**

**Main Purpose & Objectives:** The Fisheries Data Modernization and Accuracy Act of 2025 aims to reform the Marine Recreational Information Program (MRIP) of the National Marine Fisheries Service to improve the accuracy and reliability of recreational fishing data. The bill seeks to address concerns about the program's effectiveness in providing timely and accurate data for fisheries management decisions.

**Key Provisions & Changes to Existing Law:**

1. **Reform of MRIP:** The Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is required to reform the MRIP to meet the unique needs of individual regions and states. 2. **Establishment of a Standing Committee:** A standing committee will be established within the National Academies to discuss issues related to recreational fisheries data collection and management. 3. **Consultation on Percent Standard Error (PSE):** The Administrator must consult with the standing committee if the PSE for a given seasonal fishery reaches or exceeds 30 percent, or if a state submits a petition regarding a specific fishery. 4. **Adjustment of Management Approaches:** If reducing the PSE is not practicable, the Administrator may adjust management approaches, including using multi-year annual catch limits.

**Affected Parties & Stakeholders:**

1. **National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA):** The agency responsible for implementing the reforms. 2. **Regional Fishery Management Councils:** These councils will be impacted by changes to MRIP data collection and management. 3. **State Fisheries Commissions:** State-level programs related to recreational fishing catch and effort surveys may be affected by the reforms. 4. **Recreational Fishing Industry:** The accuracy of MRIP data affects fisheries management decisions, which can impact the recreational fishing industry.

**Potential Impact & Implications:**

1. **Improved Data Accuracy:** Reforms to MRIP are expected to improve the accuracy and reliability of recreational fishing data, leading to more informed fisheries management decisions. 2. **Enhanced Fisheries Management:** The bill's provisions may lead to more effective management of seasonal fisheries, reducing the risk of overfishing and promoting sustainable fisheries practices. 3. **Increased Transparency:** The establishment of a standing committee and consultation requirements may increase transparency in MRIP data collection and management processes.

Overall, the Fisheries Data Modernization and Accuracy Act of 2025 aims to address concerns about the effectiveness of MRIP and promote more accurate and reliable recreational fishing data for informed fisheries management decisions.

Let's break down this gnarly bill, bro.

**Main Purpose & Objectives**

The Fisheries Data Modernization and Accuracy Act of 2025 (HR 5699) is all about reforming the Marine Recreational Information Program (MRIP) to improve the accuracy and reliability of recreational fishing data. The main objective is to ensure that MRIP meets the unique needs of individual regions and states, while also addressing concerns around data quality and management.

**Key Provisions & Changes to Existing Law**

This bill makes some significant changes to existing law, bro:

* Establishes a standing committee within the National Academies to provide independent expertise on recreational fisheries data collection and management. * Requires the Administrator of NOAA to reform MRIP to meet regional and state needs, taking into account state-level programs related to recreational fishing catch and effort surveys. * Introduces new definitions for terms like "pulse species" and "seasonal fishery," which will help inform data collection and management decisions. * Sets a threshold for percent standard error (PSE) of 30% for data collected through MRIP, beyond which the Administrator must consult with the standing committee to reduce PSE or adjust management approaches.

**Affected Parties & Stakeholders**

This bill affects a range of stakeholders, including:

* Recreational anglers and fishing communities * State fish and wildlife agencies * Regional Fishery Management Councils * NOAA and the National Marine Fisheries Service * The National Academies and other independent experts

**Potential Impact & Implications**

The potential impact of this bill is significant, bro. By improving the accuracy and reliability of recreational fishing data, we can:

* Better manage fish stocks and prevent overfishing * Support more effective conservation efforts * Enhance the overall sustainability of marine ecosystems * Improve the economic benefits of recreational fishing for local communities

However, there are also potential implications to consider, such as:

* Increased costs associated with implementing new data collection and management approaches * Potential conflicts between different stakeholders around data interpretation and management decisions * The need for ongoing monitoring and evaluation to ensure that MRIP reforms are effective in achieving their objectives.

Anyway, dude, that's the lowdown on HR 5699. It's a complex bill, but with some chill vibes and a focus on improving recreational fishing data, we can make some gnarly progress towards more sustainable marine ecosystems.

**HR 5699: Fisheries Data Modernization and Accuracy Act of 2025**

**Main Purpose & Objectives** The bill aims to reform the Marine Recreational Information Program (MRIP) of the National Marine Fisheries Service, which collects data on recreational fishing activities. The primary objective is to improve the accuracy and reliability of MRIP data, addressing concerns about high percent standard errors (PSEs) in certain fisheries.

**Key Provisions & Changes to Existing Law**

1. **Reform of MRIP**: The Administrator must reform the MRIP to meet regional and state-specific needs, considering existing state-level programs. 2. **National Academies Standing Committee**: Establishes a standing committee within the National Academies to discuss recreational fisheries data collection and management issues. 3. **Consultation on PSE Reduction**: Requires consultation with the standing committee if the PSE for a seasonal fishery reaches or exceeds 30% in a given wave, or upon state petition. 4. **Management Adjustments**: Allows for adjustments to management approaches, including multi-year annual catch limits, if reducing PSE is not practicable.

**Affected Parties & Stakeholders**

1. **Recreational Fishermen**: The bill's provisions may impact recreational fishing regulations and access to fisheries. 2. **State Fish and Wildlife Agencies**: State-level programs related to recreational fishing catch and effort surveys will be considered in the MRIP reform process. 3. **Regional Fishery Management Councils**: These councils, which manage fisheries at the regional level, may be affected by changes to MRIP data collection and management approaches.

**Potential Impact & Implications**

1. **Improved Data Accuracy**: The bill's reforms aim to increase the accuracy of MRIP data, potentially leading to more informed fishery management decisions. 2. **Reduced Uncertainty**: By addressing high PSEs in certain fisheries, the bill may reduce uncertainty and promote more stable fishing regulations. 3. **Increased Transparency**: The establishment of a standing committee within the National Academies may increase transparency and stakeholder engagement in recreational fisheries data collection and management.

**Monied Interest Analysis**

While no specific PACs or industry lobby groups are directly backing this bill, it is likely that organizations representing recreational fishermen, such as the American Sportfishing Association (ASA), may support the legislation. The ASA has previously advocated for improvements to MRIP data collection and management approaches. Additionally, state fish and wildlife agencies may also have an interest in the bill's provisions, particularly those related to state-level programs.

**Committee Capture and Conflicts of Interest**

The Committee on Natural Resources, which referred the bill, has received significant contributions from industries related to fishing and natural resources, including the American Sportfishing Association. However, it is unclear whether these contributions have directly influenced the committee's actions on this specific bill.