Supporting the Health of Aquatic systems through Research Knowledge and Enhanced Dialogue Act or the SHARKED Act
This bill establishes requirements to address shark depredation (i.e., consumption of a fishing catch by a shark before it is retrieved by a fisherman). Specifically, the bill directs the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to establish a task force to identify and address critical needs with respect to shark depredation.
When making funds available under its cooperative research and management program, NOAA must also prioritize projects related to understanding shark depredation.
The Secretary of Commerce will establish a task force to address shark depredation
The task force will include representatives from regional fishery management councils, marine fisheries commissions, fish and wildlife agencies of coastal states, and the National Marine Fisheries Service
The task force's responsibilities include improving coordination and communication, identifying research priorities and funding opportunities, developing management strategies, and distributing educational materials
The task force will submit reports to Congress every 2 years and will terminate after 7 years
