What does Preamble of Stop Illegal Fishing Act do?

This bill aims to require the imposition of sanctions against foreign persons and foreign vessels. The bill addresses illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing activities. The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on December 1, 2025, by Mr. Meeks and Mrs. Kim.

What does SHORT TITLE. of Stop Illegal Fishing Act do?

This bill is formally titled the Stop Illegal Fishing Act.

What does SENSE OF CONGRESS. of Stop Illegal Fishing Act do?

This section expresses the Sense of Congress regarding illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing. Congress identifies IUU fishing as a rising and harmful global trend. The People's Republic of China is identified as the primary perpetrator of IUU fishing and the largest exploiter of global fisheries. IUU fishing is described as a driver of overfishing, damaging marine ecosystems and inhibiting conservation. The section states that IUU fishing violates international law, undermines the rules-based order, and exploits finite resources. IUU fishing is linked to poor working conditions for crews, including forced labor and human trafficking. The section highlights the negative impact of IUU fishing on coastal communities in poor and developing nations. Congress asserts that IUU fishing undermines the economic and maritime security of the United States. The section suggests the United States Government should utilize sanctions to deter and prevent IUU fishing.

What does SANCTIONS. of Stop Illegal Fishing Act do?

This section establishes sanctions against foreign persons and vessels engaged in illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing. The President is required to impose sanctions, as described in subsection (e), on individuals or entities owning, captaining, operating, or managing vessels involved in IUU fishing. Sanctions include asset blocking and restrictions on visas and entry into the United States. The President must create an IUU fishing sanctions program to implement these measures. The President must submit a report to Congress within 180 days of enactment and annually for five years, detailing efforts to carry out the sanctions and listing sanctioned entities. Exceptions exist for compliance with international obligations, humanitarian assistance, intelligence/law enforcement activities, and ensuring the safety of vessels and crew. The President has the authority to waive sanctions if deemed important to U.S. national security interests.

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Stop Illegal Fishing Act

Last updated: 12/3/2025 · Introduced: 12/1/2025

Author: Gregory Meeks (D-NY)

TL;DR (AI)

This bill mandates sanctions, including asset blocking and visa restrictions, against foreign individuals and vessels involved in illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing.
The President is required to establish an IUU fishing sanctions program and report annually to Congress on its implementation and sanctioned entities.
The bill identifies the People's Republic of China as a primary perpetrator of IUU fishing and highlights its negative impacts on marine ecosystems, coastal communities, and U.S. security.

119th Congressin committeeOfficial page

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Other Sections

Includes provisions on preamble, short title., and 2 more.

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