MARA Act of 2026

The MARA Act of 2026 establishes a new Office of Aquaculture within NOAA to oversee and promote commercial-scale offshore aquaculture projects in U.S. waters. This bill authorizes the issuance of permits for demonstration projects that must use native species, adhere to strict environmental safety standards, and minimize impacts on existing fishing and navigation. To support industry growth, the legislation creates funding for workforce training programs, establishes Aquaculture Centers of Excellence at specific universities, and mandates a unified permitting process to streamline federal approvals. Additionally, the act requires comprehensive studies and reports to assess the long-term environmental viability, economic benefits, and regulatory effectiveness of offshore aquaculture operations.