Continuation of Management Measures to Reduce Reef Fish Release Mortality

The Direct Enhancement of Snapper Conservation and the Economy through Novel Devices Act (DESCEND) Act of 2020 (HR 5126 2020) became effective on January 13, 2022, and NMFS implemented a final rule clarifying the definitions of a venting tool and descending device on February 14, 2022 (87 FR 2355). The DESCEND Act implemented a requirement for commercial and recreational vessels to possess a venting tool or descending device that is rigged and ready for use when fishing for reef fish in the Gulf of America (Gulf). This section of the DESCEND Act and the NMFS regulations expired in January 2026. This proposed framework action would continue the descending device and venting tool requirements for all vessels harvesting reef fish established under the DESCEND Act.