Retention Prohibition and Handling and Release Practices for Mobulid Rays in Fisheries for Atlantic Highly Migratory Species : Environmental Assessment (ID: EAXX-006-48-1HQ-1739910240), Regulatory Impact Review, and Final Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Environmental Assessment for a Rule to Prohibit Retention of Mobulid Rays in Fisheries for Atlantic Highly Migratory Species

In this action, the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) would implement binding International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas Recommendation 24-12 on mobulid rays of the family Mobulidae, which was adopted in 2024. Specifically, NMFS considered alternatives to: (1) prohibit retention of mobulid rays, and (2) implement handling and release practices. NMFS is taking this action consistent with the Atlantic Tunas Convention Act, section 971d, and the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, including section 305(d).