S. 2314 · On the floor · Public Lands and Natural Resources

SHARKED Act of 2025

What it does

Requires the Department of Commerce to establish a task force on critical needs related to shark depredation, the removal of a hooked fish by a shark before the line is retrieved.
Directs the task force to improve coordination between fisheries managers and shark researchers, identify research priorities and funding, recommend management strategies, and coordinate educational materials.
Requires representatives of each Regional Fishery Management Council, each Marine Fisheries Commission, coastal state fish and wildlife agencies, the National Marine Fisheries Service, and relevant researchers.
Requires reports to Congress within two years and every two years after, with the task force ending within seven years of its establishment.

Official summary

Supporting the Health of Aquatic systems through Research Knowledge and Enhanced Dialogue Act of 2025 or the SHARKED Act of 2025 This bill requires the Department of Commerce to establish a task force to address and report to Congress about critical needs with respect to shark depredation. (Shark depredation is the partial or complete removal of a hooked fish by a shark directly from a fishing line before the line is retrieved.) The duties of the task force are, among other responsibilities, to (1) develop ways to improve coordination and communication across the fisheries management and shark research communities; (2) identify research priorities and funding opportunities; (3) develop recommended management strategies to address shark depredation; and (4) coordinate the development and distribution of educational materials. The bill specifies that the task force must include representatives of each Regional Fishery Management Council, each Marine Fisheries Commission, the fish and wildlife agencies of coastal states, and the National Marine Fisheries Service. The task force must also include researchers and others with relevant expertise. The task force must report its findings…

Latest action

Mar 4, 2026: Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 349.

Committee: Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation