MFCN Applauds Inclusion of Fishing, Seafood Industries in House Farm Bill

Inclusion Advances Economic Parity for Fishermen and Seafood Processors

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 30, 2026
CONTACT: Jo Knight, jo@conservefish.org

Arlington, VA – The U.S. House of Representatives today passed its version of the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026 (H.R. 7567), which included measures to establish the USDA’s Office of Seafood and extend USDA grants, loans and credits to fishing and seafood industries. The Marine Fish Conservation Network released the following statements:

“The House of Representatives has formally acknowledged what we have long known to be true: People who bring food from the ocean to our tables are just as essential to feeding our nation as those who grow crops on land. By including the Office of Seafood and other fishing-related measures in the Farm, Food, and National Security Act, lawmakers have opened a pathway for fishermen and seafood processors to access the financial support systems that farmers have always had access to. We urge the Senate to follow the House’s lead to create fairness in our food system and support American fishing and seafood businesses.”

— Tom Sadler, chief executive officer of the Marine Fish Conservation Network

“Federal investment in fishermen and working waterfronts provides economic prosperity for coastal communities and food security for Americans nationwide. By giving the fishing and seafood businesses access to USDA programs, the House farm bill has taken a meaningful step toward creating a brighter and more secure future for our industry. We thank the House Representatives who pushed for fair treatment for all food producers in this bill.”

— Linda Behnken, commercial fisherman and executive director of the Alaska Longline Fishermen’s Association

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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.