Descending Device and Venting Tool for the Direct Enhancement of Snapper Conservation and the Economy through Novel Devices Act of 2020 (DESCEND Act)

The DESCEND Act was signed on January 13, 2021, by President Trump and became effective on January 13, 2022. It added a new section 321 to the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, which requires commercial and recreational fishermen to possess a venting tool or descending device that is rigged and ready for use when fishing for reef fish in the Gulf of Mexico Exclusive Economic Zone. The DESCEND Act defines both venting tools and descending devices. This action clarifies the statutory definitions for these devices.

NOAA Fisheries

Jones's bipartisan legislation to protect red snapper passes Congress

NOAA Fisheries Reminds Reef Fish Fishermen of DESCEND Act

Descending Devices - CoastwatchCoastwatch

Technology - SeaQualizer

Gulf of Mexico Red Snapper Management – Congressional Sportsmen's

Bottom Fishing Now Requires Fish Descending Device Or Venting Tool

Descending Devices - CoastwatchCoastwatch

Potential changes to saltwater fishing regulations - Texas Farm Bureau

Descending Devices - CoastwatchCoastwatch

U.S. Senate Sends DESCEND Act to President Trump's Desk

Technology - SeaQualizer

Technology - SeaQualizer