MAWS Act of 2025

The MAWS Act (Mitigation Action and Watermen Support Act of 2025) would create a pilot program running from January 2027 through December 2029 within the Department of Commerce. The program would authorize the Secretary of Commerce to purchase blue catfish caught in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed from watermen and seafood processors, with the dual goals of reducing invasive blue catfish populations in the Bay and providing economic support to fishing communities. The Secretary would determine a minimum price per pound for fish purchased through the program based on market conditions and feedback from watermen.

Under the program, eligible businesses involved in pet food, animal feed, or aquaculture feed production would receive financial awards to purchase blue catfish. The Secretary may use up to 15 percent of appropriated funds to help offset transportation costs for participating businesses. The bill authorizes $2 million annually for the three-year pilot program.

The program includes reporting requirements to Congress on the benefits achieved and potential expansion to other invasive species and watersheds. This bill passed the House in March 2026 with broad bipartisan support and is now under review by the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. If enacted, the program would provide a market-based approach to invasive species management while creating economic opportunities for watermen in the Chesapeake Bay region.