American Fisheries Advisory Committee Act

American Fisheries Advisory Committee Act

This bill directs the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to establish the American Fisheries Advisory Committee to advise on an existing grant program to address the needs of fishing communities, optimize economic benefits by building and maintaining sustainable fisheries, and increase opportunities to keep working waterfronts viable.

NOAA must establish six regions within the committee. The committee must consist of members chosen regionally and across sectors of the fishing industry. Additionally, the committee must (1) identify the needs of the fishing community, (2) develop request for proposals for the grant program, (3) review grant applications, and (4) provide NOAA with grant applications for approval.