House Resolution No. ___, introduced by Representative Kerner, urges the Secretary of the United States Department of Health and Human Services, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., to impose a ban on imported seafood until adequate testing and inspections can be conducted. The resolution highlights that approximately 80% of seafood consumed in the U.S. is imported, with significant concerns raised about the safety of these products. A study from Louisiana State University revealed alarming levels of banned substances, such as malachite green and various antimicrobial residues, in shrimp imported from several countries, indicating serious deficiencies in the current inspection processes.

The resolution emphasizes the importance of ensuring public health and safety in seafood consumption, particularly given the FDA's responsibility for overseeing fish and fishery products entering the U.S. It calls for immediate action to protect consumers from potential harm due to inadequate testing and labeling of imported seafood. A copy of the resolution will be sent to the Secretary of Health and Human Services and each member of the Louisiana congressional delegation to advocate for this critical public health measure.