Pacific Highly Migratory Species Conservation Act of 2002

H.R. 4618, the Pacific Highly Migratory Species Conservation Act of 2002, proposed a federal ban on pelagic longline fishing within the United States exclusive economic zone off the coasts of California, Oregon, and Washington. This method of fishing involves using a single main fishing line, often miles long, with hundreds of baited hooks attached at intervals to catch species like swordfish and tuna.

The bill was designed to protect marine ecosystems by reducing "bycatch," which occurs when non-targeted animals—such as sea turtles, sharks, and marine mammals—are accidentally caught and injured or killed by the longline hooks. For citizens, this legislation aimed to prioritize the long-term health of Pacific coastal waters and the conservation of protected species over specific commercial fishing practices in that region. Although introduced in 2002, the bill did not advance past the committee stage to become law.