Legislation Advances Economic Parity for Fishing and Aquaculture Industries

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 31, 2026
CONTACT: Jo Knight, jo@conservefish.org

Arlington, VA – The Marine Fish Conservation Network (MFCN) today commended Senators Lisa Murkowski and Angus King for their bipartisan legislation to strengthen the American seafood industry. The American Seafood Competitiveness Act expands access to USDA loan and grant programs for commercial fishermen, seafood processors, and mariculture businesses, treating the seafood industry with the same economic support as traditional agriculture. The Marine Fish Conservation Network released the following statements:

“Fishermen have long deserved the same financial opportunities available to farmers. The American Seafood Competitiveness Act expands eligibility for farm ownership loans, operating loans, and Farm Credit lending to fishing and seafood enterprises. It also lowers matching-fund barriers for small and rural operators accessing USDA market development programs. This legislation recognizes that people who harvest from the sea play the same vital role in feeding America as those who work the land. It’s good policy and good economics.”

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

“Strengthening access to capital helps working waterfronts remain viable while supporting the fishing jobs and coastal communities that depend on healthy fisheries. The legislation represents a critical step toward economic parity for fishing communities and working waterfronts.”

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.