Tomorrow, Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) will introduce the Stewarding Atlantic Fisheries Ecosystems by Supporting Economic Assistance and Sustainability Act of 2022 (SAFE SEAS Act). This legislation would create a grant program through the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to upgrade gear and ensure that lobstermen can continue their work while preventing endangered Right Whales from becoming entangled and killed.
"Lobstering has a long and proud tradition in New Hampshire, and the waters off our coast produce the best seafood and lobster in the world," said Congressman Pappas. "While it is vital that we protect and preserve New Hampshire's coastal ecosystems, including endangered species like the Right Whale, the men and women who have worked these waters for years must have the support they need to comply with regulations without added financial burdens on their businesses. That is why I'm introducing legislation to establish grant funding to assist lobstermen in upgrading their gear and equipment to ensure they can continue their work while we protect our fishing grounds for generations to come. I remain committed to safeguarding New Hampshire's natural environment while supporting our coastal economy and small businesses."
This legislation is co-sponsored in the House of Representatives by Congresswoman Chellie Pingree and Congressman Jared Golden. Senator Jeanne Shaheen is leading this legislation in the U.S. Senate.
Grant funds can be used to assist State-permitted and federally permitted lobster and Jonah crab harvesters with management measures needed to comply with the Atlantic Large Whale Take Reduction Plan; to implement electronic tracking requirements within the American lobster and Jonah crab fishery; to conduct research to inform future management actions; and to assist fishery compliance with any subsequent modifications to the Atlantic Large Whale Take Reduction Plan.
In February, Congressman Pappas helped announce that New Hampshire would receive over $10.73 million to support wildlife and sport fish restoration through the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The funding will help state wildlife agencies pursue conservation projects and programs, including support for hunting and fishing education, fish and wildlife management, scientific research, habitat restoration and protection and more.
In 2021, Pappas led a group of ten lawmakers in a bipartisan call requesting the inclusion of $100 million in funding for the National Sea Grant College Program in the subsequent COVID relief package to address the severe negative economic impacts faced by our coastal communities due to decreases in exports and sales to restaurants.
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