Story perspectives

US Expands Shellfish Definition, Imposes New Inspection Fees

6/29/2026

Summary

Story summary

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service finalized a rule expanding the shellfish definition to include squid, octopus, cuttlefish, lobster and shrimp, effective July 23, 2026.
Officials said the change aligns regulations with scientific classification and clears ambiguity at U.S. ports.
The Small Business Administration’s Office of Advocacy reported the rule required a $93 inspection fee and a $100 license per squid shipment, a cost the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council called redundant.

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Story summary

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service finalized a rule expanding the shellfish definition to include squid, octopus, cuttlefish, lobster and shrimp, effective July 23, 2026.
Officials said the change aligns regulations with scientific classification and clears ambiguity at U.S. ports.
The Small Business Administration’s Office of Advocacy reported the rule required a $93 inspection fee and a $100 license per squid shipment, a cost the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council called redundant.