AI-assisted analysis based on the official CRS summary. Source version: Aug 28, 2026. Analysis updated: Sep 17, 2026.
01 — The Text
What.
- The bill extends the deadline for NMFS to issue new regulations protecting endangered Atlantic large whales from lobster and crab fishing gear entanglement from 2028 to 2035.
- Current law already requires new regulations to mandate the American lobster and Jonah crab fisheries use existing and innovative fishing gear technologies to reduce whale entanglement risk.
- The bill passed the House on September 1, 2026, by a vote of 219–196.
- The bill was received in the Senate on September 14, 2026, and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.
02 — The Stakes
So what?
- The regulatory deadline extension delays implementation of whale protection measures in these fisheries by seven years.
- The bill does not alter the substantive requirement that regulations must include gear technology requirements; it only changes when those regulations must be issued.
- Effects of the delay on whale populations or fishing practices are not documented in the official summary.
03 — The Path
Now what?
- The bill passed the House on September 1, 2026, after a failed motion to recommit (202–212).
- The bill was referred to the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation on September 14, 2026.
- No further legislative action is recorded.
Legislative History
Actions.
- Sep 14, 2026 — Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.
- Sep 1, 2026 — Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
- Sep 1, 2026 — On passage Passed by the Yeas and Nays: 219 - 196 (Roll no. 291). (text: CR H5395)
- Sep 1, 2026 — Passed/agreed to in House: On passage Passed by the Yeas and Nays: 219 - 196 (Roll no. 291).
- Sep 1, 2026 — On motion to recommit Failed by the Yeas and Nays: 202 - 212 (Roll no. 290).
- Sep 1, 2026 — Considered as unfinished business. (consideration: CR H5408-5409)
- Sep 1, 2026 — POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS - At the conclusion of debate on H.R. 9436, the Chair put the question on motion to recommit and by voice vote, announced the noes had prevailed. Mrs. Dingell demanded the yeas and nays and the Chair postponed further proceedings until a time to be announced.
- Sep 1, 2026 — The previous question on the motion to recommit was ordered pursuant to clause 2(b) of rule XIX.