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

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).