Fishing Councils' Paperwork Seeks Public Blessing
Published Date: 5/8/2026
Notice
Summary
NOAA is asking for public feedback on forms used to pick fishery council members and let states regain control over certain fisheries. This helps keep the process smooth and fair, with comments due by July 7, 2026. If you’re involved in fishing or state fishery management, this affects you and keeps things running without extra hassle or cost.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
State/Tribal Nomination Time Burden
State, Territorial, and Tribal governments must submit nominations for Regional Fishery Management Council membership. NOAA estimates 275 respondents, with each nomination taking about 80 hours and each nominee background documentation taking about 16 hours, for a combined estimated total annual burden of 4,607 hours and an estimated total annual cost to the public of $0.00. Responses are mandatory under the Magnuson-Stevens Act and related regulations.
State Reinstatement / Official Designation Burden
States, Territories, and Tribal Governments may submit written requests to reinstate state authority over a managed fishery or designate a principal state fishery official. NOAA estimates each designation or reinstatement request takes about 1 hour to prepare. These submissions follow 50 CFR 600.215 and are mandatory actions under the Magnuson-Stevens Act.
Public Comment Opportunity and Deadline
NOAA invites the general public and other federal agencies to submit comments on this information collection; comments must be received on or before July 7, 2026. The notice provides a 60-day comment period before NOAA submits the collection to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB).
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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