Bill > S2089

This bill amends the Endangered Species Act of 1973 to create specific exemptions for sturgeon held in captivity or controlled environments. Under the proposed changes, sturgeon that are legally held in captivity as of the bill's enactment, as well as their offspring, would be exempt from certain endangered species protections until they are intentionally returned to the wild. To take advantage of this exemption, sturgeon owners must be able to prove the legal status of their sturgeon and maintain detailed records, which they must submit to the Secretary upon request. The documentation requirements are designed to be reasonable and avoid unnecessary duplication of existing regulatory requirements. The bill aims to provide more flexibility for sturgeon farmers and breeding programs while still maintaining oversight to protect the species. By creating these exemptions, the legislation seeks to support sturgeon conservation and sustainability efforts by allowing controlled breeding and farming activities without the full restrictions typically applied to endangered species.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/2089/all-info