Illegal Red Snapper and Tuna Enforcement Act

This bill targets illegal fishing and seafood fraud. It tells federal science and ocean agencies to build a quick, standard test to find a seafood’s country of origin, using chemical analysis. The test should be fast, portable (a field kit one person can carry), and work even on prepared foods like sushi or ceviche. They must first pilot it on red snapper and tuna, then report back within two years on how to put it into use or explain if parts aren’t practical and what else could work .

It also lets the Department of Defense, working with the Coast Guard, help other countries fight illegal fishing. This help can include sending observers or shipriders, sharing remote sensing and data analysis, and coordinating operations, including efforts from U.S., partner, or international vessels where appropriate under U.S. law and policy .

• Who is affected: Seafood buyers and sellers; restaurants; law enforcement; coastal communities; foreign maritime forces receiving help
• What changes: A new portable test to verify where seafood came from; pilot focus on red snapper and tuna; U.S. defense and Coast Guard support to other nations against illegal fishing
• When: Agencies must deliver a report on the test within two years of the law taking effect