1. H.R. 6546 Introduced on December 1, 2023.
2. World Sturgeon Conservation Society Letter to Chairman Bentz and Ranking Member Huffman (May 6, 2024)
3. Rep. Bentz Letter to House Appropriations Committee (May 15, 2024)
4. H.R. 8998, FY 2025 Interior Appropriations Bill
5. Full Committee Markup July 11, 2024

House Passage July 24, 2024.

(54 Amendments Considered) Passed 210-205

Sec. 134:“None of the funds made available by this or any other Act may be used by the Secretary of the Interior pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.) to implement, administer, or enforce a proposed or final rule with regard to a fish legally held in captivity or in a controlled environment in a manner that maintains physical separation of such fish from any wild population of the same species.”

What are our prospects after the election:

Legislative Scenarios

1. 12 Individual Appropriations Bills - Unlikely to pass on the Senate like this
2. Continuing Resolution – Current CR - Congress may or may not allow for further modifications, it is unclear until election results are in - Expires on December 20, 2024
3. Omnibus/Minibus - Could be beneficial to our Bills
4. Combination of the Above - Senate would not pass individual bills. Here is where the Appropriations bill falls in.

Possible Election Outcomes:

1. Senate R, House R, White House R (favorable)
2. Senate R, House D, White House R (favorable)
3. Senate R, House D, White House D (favorable with additional work)
4. Senate R, House R, White House D (not favorable)

Partner Appreciation Note for Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck

Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck stands out in the legal landscape for its deep expertise in natural resources, particularly in sectors like energy, water, and environmental law, which are central to the goals of the Sturgeon Industry Alliance of America (SIAA). The firm’s multidisciplinary team combines decades of experience navigating the complex regulatory and environmental frameworks that impact the sturgeon industry, including federal and state laws related to endangered species, sustainable resource management, and trade regulations. Brownstein Hyatt is particularly adept at fostering collaboration across diverse stakeholder groups, from government agencies to private industry players, ensuring innovative solutions that advance environmental stewardship while supporting economic growth.

Clients working within the sturgeon industry would benefit from the firm’s comprehensive approach, which integrates regulatory compliance, strategic government relations, and litigation capabilities to protect and promote their interests. The firm’s commitment to innovation is also evident in its progressive billing practices, including flexible fee structures that align with clients' business objectives, and its use of cutting-edge legal technology to streamline case management and improve efficiency. Additionally, Brownstein Hyatt's emphasis on diversity and inclusion within its team ensures that clients have access to a wide range of perspectives, contributing to more holistic and effective problem-solving in addressing the unique challenges facing the sturgeon industry. Compared to other firms, Brownstein Hyatt offers an unparalleled combination of industry knowledge, legal acumen, and client-centric service tailored to advancing the goals of the SIAA and supporting the sustainable development of the sturgeon sector.