Press Releases

WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Monday, U.S. Congressman Mike Waltz (FL-6) introduced the Sturgeon Conservation and Sustainability Act to amend the Endangered Species Act (ESA) to allow American farmers to continue their sturgeon operations while also ensuring the longevity of the species across the globe.

In September, Senators Marco Rubio (R-FL) and Rick Scott (R-FL) introduced companion legislation in the Senate. Co-sponsoring this legislation in the House were Representatives Kat Cammack (FL-3), Scott Franklin (FL-15), and Neal Dunn (FL-2).

“Thanks to the Biden Administration’s decision to place non-native and hybrid sturgeon on the endangered species list, farmers in Florida and across the country are now being forced to care for thousands of fish without any hope of selling, harvesting, or relocating them,” said Waltz. “These fish can live upwards of 100 years and will cost farmers thousands of dollars to keep alive. We must protect these fish and the livelihoods of Florida’s farmers. That’s why I am proud to introduce legislation in the House to allow the continuation of sustainable fishery practices for farmed sturgeon.”