Responsible Cormorant Management and Control Act of 2026

The Responsible Cormorant Management and Control Act of 2026 proposes to address concerns regarding the impact of double-crested cormorants on natural resources. If enacted, the legislation would likely provide federal agencies or state governments with expanded authority to manage these bird populations. This could include measures to reduce their numbers in specific areas where they are believed to be damaging local fish stocks, harming aquaculture operations, or disrupting delicate aquatic ecosystems. For everyday citizens, particularly those involved in commercial fishing, recreational angling, or conservation, this bill aims to create a more flexible framework for balancing bird protections with the economic and ecological health of local waterways. Because cormorants are currently protected under federal migratory bird laws, this bill would seek to streamline the permitting process or create specific exemptions to allow for more active population control. The proposal currently sits with the House Committee on Natural Resources for further review.