Sturgeon Conservation and Sustainability Act

S. 2089 would amend the Endangered Species Act to create an exemption for sturgeon raised in captivity or controlled environments in the United States. The bill would allow farmers and aquaculture operators to sell, harvest, and relocate farm-bred sturgeon and their offspring without facing federal penalties, as long as these fish are not intentionally released into the wild. Supporters argue this provides relief for aquaculture businesses that currently care for thousands of long-lived sturgeon with no ability to use them commercially, while still protecting wild sturgeon populations. Opponents contend the bill could undermine conservation efforts for endangered wild sturgeon populations by weakening protections under the Endangered Species Act.