S.Amdt. 5950

The amendment, titled the Protecting Global Fisheries Act of 2026, aims to add a new subtitle to bill S. 4784 to combat illegal, unreported, or unregulated (IUU) fishing and the trade of endangered species.

Its purpose is to establish a framework for international collaboration, accountability, and the use of sanctions to stop these activities.

Key additions to the bill include:

• International Collaboration: It sets a policy for the United States to work with allies, partners, and international institutions. It authorizes the Secretaries of State, Commerce, and Homeland Security to use U.S. influence to deploy technology and hold those responsible for IUU fishing accountable, with a specific focus on the People's Republic of China. It also allows the President to urge the United Nations to take more action.

• Sanctions Authority: The amendment allows the President to impose sanctions on foreign persons or vessels involved in IUU fishing or the illegal trade of endangered species. These sanctions can include:

  • Blocking property and interests in property within the U.S.
  • Making individuals ineligible for visas or revoking existing ones.
  • Prohibiting U.S. financial institutions from providing loans or credits.
  • Prohibiting foreign exchange transactions under U.S. jurisdiction.

• Reporting and Oversight: The President must submit an annual report on the imposition of sanctions. Additionally, the Secretary of State must provide an annual report for four years focusing on maritime law enforcement agreements, the patterns and resources of the People's Republic of China regarding IUU fishing, and the effectiveness of global forums.