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119-hr-2776119th CongressWALLET

Imported Seafood Quality Enforcement Act

Sponsored By: Representative Higgins, Clay [R-LA-3]

Introduced

Summary

Creates a mandatory, risk-based U.S. safety regime that requires exporting countries to prove their seafood programs are equivalent to U.S. standards. It would add a new imported-seafood section that pairs annual foreign-facility inspections with domestic testing and strict enforcement for noncompliance.

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

4 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 2 costs, 1 mixed.

Big fines for false seafood tests

If enacted, people who knowingly lie about tests or misbrand imported seafood could face civil fines. Each violation could cost up to $250,000. After two convictions in three years, total fines for these violations would be capped at $1,100,000.

Tougher safety checks on imported seafood

If enacted, the Secretary would test at least 20% of imported seafood each year and inspect foreign facilities at least once a year. The first 15 shipments from any exporter would be tested; after a failure, testing would continue until 15 in a row pass. If an exporter has more than 3 failures in a year, imports from that exporter would be barred for 1 year and need certification to resume. Seafood could enter only from certified countries and only through ports the Secretary certifies with trained staff; if a country repeatedly fails tests, its seafood would be refused until certified. Failed shipments would be detained or destroyed unless re-exported; refused loads must be labeled 'UNITED STATES: REFUSED ENTRY,' with ports notified within 5 days. A foreign authority could accept a rejected shipment if it notifies within 45 days, unless the shipment could cause significant health risks.

States help inspect imported seafood

If enacted, the Secretary could set up a program for States to inspect, test, and certify imported seafood. State officials would get federal training and be certified as federal agents. States could get grants if they apply and follow federal safety and training rules.

Fees on exporters to fund inspections

If enacted, the Secretary could charge exporters fees to fund seafood inspection services. The money would go to the Treasury and be available to pay for inspectors and equipment. Exporters could pass these costs on to buyers.

Sponsors & CoSponsors

Sponsor

Higgins, Clay [R-LA-3]

LA • R

Cosponsors

  • Rep. Weber, Randy K. Sr. [R-TX-14]

    TX • R

    Sponsored 6/3/2025

Roll Call Votes

No roll call votes available for this bill.

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