Fisheries Amendment Approved By House Of Representatives

A recently passed amendment could provide more for money for fisheries research.

Congressman Bill Keating's office says that on Monday the U.S. House of Representatives approved an amendment to bill H.R. 1335, the Strengthening Fishing Communities and Increasing Flexibility in Fisheries Management Act.

The amendment says that monies in the Asset Forfeiture Fund will be used for fishery research and stock assessments, conservation gear engineering, fishery impact statements, and other priorities established by the Regional Fishery Management Councils in order to rebuild or maintain sustainable fisheries, ensure healthy ecosystems, and maintain fishing communities.

"This is a simple, straightforward amendment that provides more science and resources to an industry that desperately needs it," said Keating.

"There is no such thing as ‘too many’ hard facts or data, and the ability to use them to better inform fisheries management.”

Congressmen Seth Moulton and Congressman Stephen Lynch joined with Congressman Keating to submit the amendment.