South Pacific Fisheries Convention Implementation Act

(This measure has not been amended since it was introduced. The summary has been expanded because action occurred on the measure.)

South Pacific Fisheries Convention Implementation Act

This bill authorizes the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to promulgate regulations to implement U.S. participation in the South Pacific Fisheries Convention. The convention is designed to ensure the long-term conservation and sustainable use of fishery resources and marine ecosystems in the South Pacific Ocean.

(Sec. 3) The United States must be represented by no more than three commissioners on the Commission of the South Pacific Regional Fisheries Management Organisation.

In addition, a permanent advisory committee is established, which shall be comprised of seven members. Advisory committee members shall represent groups concerned with fishery resources covered by the South Pacific Fisheries Convention.

NOAA must develop a memorandum of understanding with the Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council describing the role of the council with respect to:

• participation of the United States in consulting with international fishery organizations in the Pacific Ocean,
• providing recommendations to NOAA and the Department of State regarding domestic and foreign fishing vessels,
• coordinating with the United States on presentations the council makes to international fishery organizations, and
• recommending domestic fishing regulations that are consistent with the actions of the international fishery organizations.

(Sec. 4) The State Department has the authority to receive and transmit various communications concerning the South Pacific commission, and can approve or disapprove bylaws and rules adopted by the commission.

(Sec. 5) This bill details NOAA's authority in implementing this bill and measures adopted by the commission.

(Sec. 6) NOAA and the U.S. Coast Guard are required to administer and enforce this bill.

(Sec. 7) This bill lists 16 fishing and shipping activities that are prohibited in the South Pacific Ocean.

(Sec. 8) NOAA may cooperate with public and private institutions in the United States and abroad to carry out this bill. Federal agencies are authorized to cooperate with NOAA in conducting research and providing facilities and personnel to assist the commission.

(Sec. 9) The State Department must ensure that American Samoa, Guam, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands participate with the commission in the same manner as territories of other nations.

(Sec. 10) Operators of commercial fishing vessels that do not carry vessel monitoring systems capable of communicating with U.S. enforcement authorities must:

• notify the U.S. Coast Guard prior to or within a reasonable time after entering the exclusive economic zone of the convention area;
• ensure that all fishing gear is stowed below deck and not readily available for fishing; and
• if requested, proceed to a specified location so that a vessel inspection can be conducted.