Fisheries Data Modernization and Accuracy Act of 2025
Sponsored By: Representative Rutherford
In Committee
Summary
Rebuild recreational fishery data to make management more scientific and transparent. This bill would remake the Marine Recreational Information Program (MRIP), create a new state data program and grants, require independent fishery surveys, and embed National Academies oversight to cut data uncertainty and improve stock assessments.
Show full summary
- States and local programs would get a standardized State Recreational Fishery Catch and Effort Data Collection program with a three-year calibration framework and a grant program that must start within 180 days and run with program direction through 2031.
- Science and stock assessment processes would be strengthened by a codified stock assessment plan that must be issued within two years, expanded use of alternative data from fishermen and universities, and a new Fishery-Independent Surveys program with competitive contracts and annual reporting.
- Transparency and independent oversight would increase through a National Academies standing committee, a one-year National Academies report on red snapper and survey use, and requirements for webcasts, recordings, searchable transcripts, and a public archive available within 30 days of meetings.
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Bill Overview
Analyzed Economic Effects
5 provisions identified: 4 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.
Grants for state-run fishing data
If enacted, NOAA would start a grants program within 180 days to help States run or improve recreational catch data. The bill would authorize $15 million each year for 2026–2031. NOAA would set universal standards and approve State programs that collect and report data in State and Federal waters. Three years after a State first reports, NOAA would use that State’s data without calibrating to MRIP and use it to calibrate old MRIP estimates; MRIP funds to that State would continue. NOAA would report to Congress every two years on which States participate, how the data are used, and accuracy gains.
Independent fish surveys used in management
If enacted, NOAA would hire independent groups through competitive contracts to estimate absolute fish abundance for key stocks. Survey results would be peer‑reviewed and, after consultation, could be used in management; NOAA would report to Congress each year on use. The National Academies, with the Harte Research Institute, would release a public report within 1 year on how the 2021 Red Snapper study has been used and how to use new survey data.
Regular stock assessments with clear schedules
If enacted, the Secretary of Commerce would publish the first national stock assessment plan within 2 years. For most priority stocks, the plan would target updates about every 5 years; for unassessed priority stocks, an initial assessment within 3 years of plan publication, unless justified otherwise and subject to funding. The plan would list data that could reduce uncertainty, including data from fishermen, communities, and research groups. The bill would also add a clear legal definition of “stock assessment.”
Reforms to cut errors in angler data
If enacted, NOAA would reform its recreational fishing data program to better fit regional and State needs and not weaken strong State surveys. When error rates hit 30% in a season wave or a State flags major problems, NOAA would consult an independent National Academies committee and publish a plain‑language report within 6 months on how to cut error or adjust management. If cutting error below 30% is not practical, NOAA could use validated alternative data methods for that seasonal fishery. The standing committee would meet regularly and include experts and State agency members. These steps could change catch limits or seasons in some regions.
More open fishery council meetings and advice
If enacted, Regional Fishery Management Councils would webcast non‑closed meetings when practical and post a recording or searchable transcript within 30 days. The Secretary would keep a public archive. Scientific and statistical committees would have to develop advice in a transparent way and allow public involvement.
Sponsors & CoSponsors
Sponsor
Rutherford
FL • R
Cosponsors
Haridopolos
FL • R
Sponsored 11/17/2025
Soto
FL • D
Sponsored 11/17/2025
Rep. Ezell, Mike [R-MS-4]
MS • R
Sponsored 11/17/2025
Rep. Moskowitz, Jared [D-FL-23]
FL • D
Sponsored 11/17/2025
Webster (FL)
FL • R
Sponsored 11/17/2025
Rep. Carter, Troy A. [D-LA-2]
LA • D
Sponsored 11/17/2025
Rep. Carter, Earl L. "Buddy" [R-GA-1]
GA • R
Sponsored 11/17/2025
Rep. Fry, Russell [R-SC-7]
SC • R
Sponsored 11/17/2025
Bilirakis
FL • R
Sponsored 11/17/2025
Buchanan
FL • R
Sponsored 11/17/2025
Rep. Weber, Randy K. Sr. [R-TX-14]
TX • R
Sponsored 12/5/2025
Davis (NC)
NC • D
Sponsored 12/17/2025
McDowell
NC • R
Sponsored 1/21/2026
Roll Call Votes
No roll call votes available for this bill.
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