AI-assisted analysis based on the official CRS summary. Source version: Dec 10, 2025. Analysis updated: Sep 14, 2026.
01 — The Text
What.
- Requires the Department of the Interior to reissue a depredation order allowing the taking (capturing, killing, dispersing, or transporting carcasses) of double-crested cormorants without a permit at aquaculture facilities and fish hatcheries
- Expands the depredation order to cover additional states beyond those in the previous order that was vacated by court in 2016
- Expands eligibility to include private lake and pond managers who are state-licensed, in addition to landowners, operators, tenants, and employees of aquaculture entities
- Requires the Interior Department to renew the depredation order every five years
02 — The Stakes
So what?
- Aquaculture operators and authorized individuals can legally take cormorants threatening harm to fish farms and hatcheries without obtaining individual permits
- The bill does not specify which additional states will be covered or provide quantified projections of cormorant population effects or aquaculture industry impacts
- The previous depredation order was vacated by court order in 2016; the bill authorizes reissuance but does not address the legal grounds that led to the prior vacation
03 — The Path
Now what?
- House passed the bill on December 9, 2025 by voice vote under suspension of rules
- Bill received in Senate on December 10, 2025 and referred to Committee on Environment and Public Works
- Committee on Natural Resources reported an amended version on September 15, 2025
Legislative History
Actions.
- Dec 10, 2025 — Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Environment and Public Works.
- Dec 9, 2025 — Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
- Dec 9, 2025 — On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by voice vote. (text: CR H5076-5077)
- Dec 9, 2025 — Passed/agreed to in House: On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by voice vote. (text: CR H5076-5077)
- Dec 9, 2025 — DEBATE - The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 2293.
- Dec 9, 2025 — Considered under suspension of the rules. (consideration: CR H5076-5077)
- Dec 9, 2025 — Mr. Hurd (CO) moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended.
- Sep 15, 2025 — Placed on the Union Calendar, Calendar No. 241.