NOAA Trims Dolphin Conservation Paperwork Burden
Published Date: 5/18/2026
Notice
Summary
NOAA is updating how it collects information for the International Dolphin Conservation Program by removing five data collections and renewing sixteen others without changes. This affects fishermen, businesses, and agencies involved in dolphin-safe fishing practices. Comments on these changes are open until July 17, 2026, with no new costs expected.
Analyzed Economic Effects
1 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Mandatory Tuna Reporting Continues
If you fish for tuna, run a tuna-related business, or handle tuna imports, you must continue to submit required paperwork under the International Dolphin Conservation Program. NOAA is renewing 16 existing information collections under OMB Control Number 0648-0387 (and moving 5 collections to OMB Control Number 0648-0335); the collection covers permit applications, notifications, reports, and chain-of-custody records. The rule lists 240 estimated respondents, a total annual burden of 111 hours, an estimated total annual cost to the public of $450, and requires compliance under the IDCPA, DPCIA, and the Tuna Conventions Act.
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