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The MMPA was initially introduced more than 50 years ago to conserve and protect marine mammals and other endangered species. Since its enactment, there have been limited updates to the MMPA, inhibiting it from keeping pace with advancements across the marine industry. The National Marine Manufacturers’ Association (NMMA) and our members fully support the statutes and objectives of conservation and species protection but also see a critical need to reform the Act.

The proposed Discussion Draft aims to make long-overdue reforms and modernize the MMPA to ensure balanced, science-based, and economically considerate implementation in line with today’s environmental, technological, and economic realities. The amendments would reduce regulatory uncertainty, ensure more effective implementation, and address issues including clearly defining key terms, eliminating subjective interpretations, and mandating more inclusive and scientifically balanced rulemaking processes.

During the hearing, Rep. Nick Begich (R-AK) underscored the Discussion Draft as an important first step in a bipartisan discussion. “The MMPA has been in place for over 50 years and during that time, it’s served an important role in conserving marine mammals and protecting our oceans. As the decades have passed, we’ve seen how its implementation, particularly in the use of vague or overly precautionary standards, has led to confusion, delay and unintended harm,” Begich stated. “This draft aims to bring clarity, objectivity, and balance back into the implementation of the MMPA.”

Justin Shirley, Principal Deputy Director and Acting Director for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, noted, “The Service appreciates the sponsor’s work on marine mammal issues and intent to modernize the MMPA. We would welcome the opportunity to work with the Subcommittee to help address implementation challenges with the draft legislation.”

Other members of the Committee emphasized the importance of these reforms, including reducing regulatory ambiguity, bolstering the effectiveness of the statute, and reinforcing science-backed decision-making.

Additional bills discussed during the hearing included:

NMMA strongly supports the proposal to amend the MMPA and thanks the Subcommittee for its ongoing commitment to address these critical issues. We welcome the opportunity to work together to ensure that the intent of the statutes are clarified and implemented in a manner that both protects sensitive species and supports economic activity.