House Concurrent Resolution No. 76 emphasizes the critical importance of the shrimp industry to the economy of Texas and the Gulf Coast, where it supports over 14,000 jobs and generates approximately $850 million in economic value. However, the industry faces significant threats from a surge in foreign shrimp imports, which have nearly doubled from 2013 to 2021, leading to a stark imbalance where Texas shrimpers harvested only 6.8 million pounds in early 2023 compared to 800 million pounds of imported shrimp. The resolution highlights that much of the imported shrimp is farm-raised and subsidized, allowing foreign producers to undercut domestic prices, while also raising concerns about public health due to the presence of harmful substances in imported shrimp.

In light of these challenges, the resolution calls on the federal government to take action to limit the importation of foreign shrimp to protect the domestic shrimping industry and ensure consumer safety. It underscores the need for fair competition and the sustainability of small, family-owned businesses that are vital to the Gulf Coast communities. The resolution has been adopted by both the Texas House and Senate and will be forwarded to key federal officials, including the President and the Secretary of Commerce, to advocate for the interests of the Texas shrimp industry.