Atlantic Highly Migratory Species; Revisions to Commercial Atlantic Blacknose and Recreational Atlantic Shark Fisheries Management Measures; Extension of Comment Period

On January 5, 2026, NMFS published the proposed rule to revise commercial blacknose shark and recreational Atlantic shark fisheries management measures in the Atlantic Highly Migratory Species (HMS) shark fisheries. In the proposed rule, NMFS announced a 60-day comment period ending on March 6, 2026. During the comment period, the Gulf Fishery Management Council, the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission, and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission requested an extension of the comment to provide additional opportunities for the public to consider and comment on the proposed measures and related analyses. NMFS is extending the comment period for this action through May 29, 2026. NMFS will consider comments received on the proposed rule in determining whether and how to implement final management measures.