Sturgeon Conservation and Sustainability Act of 2025

This bill proposes to amend the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (ESA) by establishing specific exemptions for certain sturgeon populations. Its core purpose is to permit activities related to sturgeon that are legally held in captivity or controlled environments, including those farmed. Specifically, the legislation dictates that prohibitions under ESA subsections 9(a)(1) and 7(a)(2) will not apply to sturgeon legally held in such environments as of the bill's enactment date, nor to their progeny. This exemption is conditional, ceasing if the sturgeon or its offspring are intentionally released into a wild state. To qualify for this exception, individuals or entities holding these sturgeon must be able to demonstrate their eligibility. They are also mandated to maintain and submit inventories, documentation, and records to the Secretary upon request, as outlined by regulations, with a provision to avoid unnecessary duplication of existing ESA requirements.