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House Considers Bill to Lift Columbia Sea Lion Limits

7/24/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The U.S. House is debating H.R. 9621.
Rep. Michael Baumgartner (R-WA) and Rep. Emily Randall (D-WA) introduced bill on July 9.
The bill would lift Columbia River limits, allow kills in basin and up to 10 % elsewhere.
The Northwest Indian Fisheries Commission backs the bill, which Rep. Jared Huffman and Rep. Val Hoyle oppose for lacking safeguards.
Marine scientist Richard Merrick warns new sea lions will replace culled ones, limiting benefit.

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Story summary

The U.S. House is debating H.R. 9621.
Rep. Michael Baumgartner (R-WA) and Rep. Emily Randall (D-WA) introduced bill on July 9.
The bill would lift Columbia River limits, allow kills in basin and up to 10 % elsewhere.
The Northwest Indian Fisheries Commission backs the bill, which Rep. Jared Huffman and Rep. Val Hoyle oppose for lacking safeguards.
Marine scientist Richard Merrick warns new sea lions will replace culled ones, limiting benefit.