Bill seeks quick chemical test to trace red snapper and tuna origin
Passed one chamberS. 283Latest action
Sponsor: Ted Cruz · Senator · TX
AIDecoded by AI · checked against the recordRead the official text
Official title: Illegal Red Snapper and Tuna Enforcement Act
119th Congress
Topics: Environment & energy
Introduced:
Read the official bill on Congress.govIn plain words
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S 283 would create a fast chemical test to verify seafood origin and crack down on illegal fishing.
50-second read · 4 questions answered below
What does this do?
S 283 directs NIST and NOAA, with Customs and Border Protection and the Coast Guard, to develop a chemical testing method to quickly identify the country of origin of red snapper and tuna, ideally as a portable field kit usable even on prepared foods like sushi or ceviche. Within two years, officials must report to Congress on how well it works and what it would take to implement. The bill also lets the Department of Defense use existing funds to help foreign navies and coast guards fight illegal fishing through observers, technical experts, data analysis, and intelligence support.
Who does it affect?
Affects seafood importers, restaurants, sellers, and consumers, plus federal agencies and military branches taking on new coordination roles. Also affects commercial fishers and countries or operations engaged in illegal fishing.
Why does it matter?
Better origin-tracking could increase inspections and enforcement against mislabeled or illegally caught seafood at restaurants, markets, and ports, not just docks. Countries or fishing operations involved in illegal fishing would face greater scrutiny.
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Where does it stand?
- IntroducedJan 28, 2025
- Senate committee
- Senate vote
- HouseYou are here · Oct 5, 2026
- The president's desk
Right now: it passed the Senate and now goes to the House. If the House changes it, it goes back to the Senate before reaching the president.
Latest action: — Presented to President.