To prohibit the commercial harvesting of Atlantic striped bass in the coastal waters and the exclusive economic zone.

H.R. 1286 proposes a federal ban on the commercial harvesting of Atlantic striped bass within U.S. coastal waters and the Exclusive Economic Zone, which extends 200 nautical miles offshore. Under this legislation, the species would be designated as a recreational-only game fish, effectively ending the sale of wild-caught Atlantic striped bass in markets and restaurants. To ensure compliance, the bill establishes strict penalties for violations, including the potential seizure of fishing vessels and equipment used in illegal commercial harvesting.