Florida Safe Seas Act of 2025

Jun 2, 2026

Summary

Amends a major fishing law to make it illegal to feed sharks in the ocean waters controlled by the federal government off the coast of Florida.

What problem does this solve?

Feeding sharks can teach them to see people as a source of food, which can be dangerous for swimmers and divers. This bill stops this practice in federal waters near Florida to help keep people safe.

What does this bill do?

Bans shark feeding off the coast of Florida

Adds Florida to the list of states where it is illegal to feed sharks in the exclusive economic zone, which are federal waters generally extending from 3 to 200 nautical miles offshore.

Amends the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Act

Changes Section 317 of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, which already prohibits shark feeding off the coast of Hawaii.

Who does this affect?

Dive tour operators
Tourists
Recreational divers

What is the real world impact?

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Increases public safety in Florida's waters

Prevents sharks from associating humans with food. This may reduce the chance of dangerous encounters for swimmers, divers, and boaters near the Florida coast.

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Protects natural shark behavior

Discourages the artificial feeding of sharks. This helps ensure that sharks continue to hunt naturally and maintain their role in the marine ecosystem without human interference.

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Impacts local tourism businesses

Bans a popular tourist activity offered by some dive companies. This could cause these businesses to lose money and may be opposed by operators who believe their activities are safe and educational.

When does this start?

The rules in this bill would start as soon as it becomes a law.