FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 16, 2026
CONTACT: Jo Knight, jo@conservefish.org

Arlington, VA – The U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate have agreed on a bipartisan compromise on the FY26 Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies appropriations bill, and it passed both chambers. The bill provides $6.17 billion for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), including $1.12 billion for the National Marine Fisheries Service through September 2026. Tom Sadler, chief executive officer of the Marine Fish Conservation Network, released the following statement:

“Congress’ decision to fund NOAA and the National Marine Fisheries Service at a level that maintains their effectiveness was the right call. NOAA provides the data collection, scientific assessments, weather reports, and management support needed for fishing businesses to operate safely and sustainably. We need the fisheries experts and resources at NOAA doing the hard work of keeping our oceans healthy and our fisheries productive. This investment will support ocean ecosystems, coastal communities, and the American seafood economy.”

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The Marine Fish Conservation Network is a coalition of commercial and recreational fishing associations, regional and national conservation groups, aquaria, and marine science organizations committed to sustaining fish populations, healthy marine ecosystems, and robust fishing communities.