Congress·In Progress·H.R. 3831

Shark Feeding: Ban in Florida Federal Waters

Florida Safe Seas Act of 2025

Legislative Progress

House

Senate

President

Law

This bill would make it illegal to feed sharks in federal waters off the coast of Florida. It updates a major fishing law to include Florida in a ban that already exists for Hawaii.
This affects tour boat operators, divers, and fishers who use food to attract sharks for tourism or photography. People caught feeding sharks in these areas could face federal penalties or fines.
Supporters of these bans usually argue that feeding sharks changes their natural behavior and makes them associate humans with food. This can lead to more dangerous encounters between sharks and people in popular swimming or diving areas.
The ban applies to the "exclusive economic zone," which generally starts several miles offshore and extends out to 200 miles. Florida already has state laws against shark feeding closer to shore, so this would close the gap in federal waters.

4 milestones7 actions

Mar 5, 2026House

Ordered to be Reported by Unanimous Consent.

Mar 5, 2026House

Committee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held

Mar 5, 2026House

Subcommittee on Water, Wildlife and Fisheries Discharged

Jul 22, 2025House

Subcommittee Hearings Held

Jul 16, 2025House

Referred to the Subcommittee on Water, Wildlife and Fisheries.

Document Type

Congressional Bill

Official Title

Florida Safe Seas Act of 2025

Bill NumberHR 3831

Congress119th Congress

ChamberHouse of Representatives

Latest ActionOrdered to be Reported by Unanimous Consent.

Congress.gov

Official legislative information

(5)

D: 1R: 4

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