To reauthorize the Young Fishermen's Development Act.
Summary
H.R. 3692 would reauthorize the Young Fishermen's Development Grant Program, extending its authorization through fiscal year 2031. This program provides federal funding to support local and regional initiatives that offer training, education, outreach, and technical assistance specifically designed for young people entering the fishing industry.
The bill would help address workforce development in the fishing sector by funding programs that teach young fishermen essential skills, business practices, and sustainable fishing techniques. These grants support vocational and technical education opportunities that can help new entrants establish careers in commercial and recreational fisheries, which are important to coastal communities and the broader marine economy.
The legislation passed the House and is currently under review in the Senate. If enacted, the program would continue providing resources to fishing communities, educational institutions, and nonprofit organizations working to train and support the next generation of fishermen through 2031.