Reforming Fisheries Law with South Alabama Common Sense

Our fishing industry is part of our cultural identity in South Alabama. We need to do our best to manage these valuable natural resources for future generations to enjoy – it’s one of the primary reasons I was excited to join the House Natural Resources Committee as a newly sworn-in Member of Congress. This committee has broad jurisdiction over the way we manage our fisheries and water resources, which are key elements of South Alabama.

However, what we know in South Alabama is that poorly founded science and uninformed Washington rule makers can have a devastating impact on jobs and tourism dollars coming into our community. The Red Snapper season issue is a prime example. Last year, the season was only 28 days long – this year it’s not much improved.

Earlier this week, I participated in a hearing with the House Natural Resources Committee on reforming and reauthorizing the Magnuson Stevens Act, the federal law with jurisdiction over fisheries policies. During my questioning with an administrator representing the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), I pressed him on whether the science used was accurate on limiting Snapper season due to supposedly depleted stocks. I pointed out that data gathered by scientists across each of the Gulf states and anecdotal evidence from resource user groups has quantified the abundance of this fish. In his response, the gentleman admitted that populations are rebounding dramatically.

Part of my job as your Representative is to make Washington listen and bring to light the harmful impact decisions can have on real people, my friends and neighbors at home. I’ve already begun having conversations with Natural Resources Committee Chairman Doc Hastings on how we can include fresh ideas and some common sense into this legislation that will help our commercial and recreational fisherman in South Alabama.

Much of our coastal economy is dependent on jobs generated through the fisheries industry, with millions of dollars brought into our community ever year. It is a top priority of mine to fight for these jobs as a new member of the House Natural Resources Committee. Additionally, our recreational fishermen need a voice who will represent their interests. I look forward to working with Chairman Hastings and my colleagues on this important issue.