NOAAFinal Rule
Regulations Governing the Taking and Importing of Marine Mammals; CFR Correction
Environment
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Summary
This regulation updates federal rules about catching, hunting, and bringing marine mammals (like whales, seals, and dolphins) into the United States. The changes ensure the rules are clear and consistent with current laws protecting these ocean animals.
Key Points
- 1The regulation corrects and clarifies existing rules about which marine mammals can be taken (hunted or caught) and under what conditions
- 2It affects fishermen, researchers, zoos, aquariums, and anyone else who legally interacts with marine mammals in U.S. waters
- 3The rules control importing marine mammals and products from other countries to protect endangered species
- 4Violations can result in fines and penalties for people or businesses that break the marine mammal protection laws
- 5This is a technical correction to fix errors in previous versions of the regulation, not a major change in policy
Impact Assessment
If you are an importer or exporter of marine mammal products, this means you need to follow clarified federal rules about what marine mammals can be legally brought into the United States.
Impact Level
Routine
Geographic Scope
International
Compliance Cost
Minimal
Who is Affected
Importers/ExportersManufacturersWorkers/Laborers
Key Dates
Published
January 12, 2026
Regulatory Connections
Authorized By
Amends CFR Sections
50 CFR Part 216
Other Documents in This Rulemaking (NOAA_FRDOC_0001)
NOAAAgriculture
Fisheries of the Northeastern United States: 2026 and Projected 2027 Specifications for the Summer Flounder, Scup, Black Sea Bass, and Bluefish Fisheries
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Fraser River Panel Salmon Fisheries: Inseason Orders
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Eliminating Redundant Regulatory Part Related to Public Information and Disclosure
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Atlantic Surfclam and Ocean Quahog Fisheries: 2026 Fishing Quotas for Atlantic Surfclams and Ocean Quahogs and Suspension of Atlantic Surfclam Minimum Size Limit
This summary is for informational purposes only. It may not capture all nuances of the regulation. Always refer to the official text for authoritative information.
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