Vitter Urges Public Input in Protecting Public Access to Red Snapper Fishery

Statement

Today, Sen. David Vitter (R-La.), Chairman of the Small Business & Entrepreneurship Committee, made the following statement regarding the Gulf of Mexico Regional Fishing Management Council's (Gulf Council) consideration of an amendment that would divide the recreational red snapper sector.

"The Gulf Council's proposal to divide the recreational red snapper sector could crush our local coastal economies in a big way," said Vitter. "The Gulf Council is stepping outside of its federally mandated authority by pushing a completely unnecessary amendment that is based on incomplete economic analysis. I urge the public to share their opinions on this potentially devastating decision with the Council and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration fisheries before March 17th in order to protect our local small businesses -- like tackle shops, boat retailers, and Gulf anglers."

Vitter has been urging the Gulf Council, which is responsible for governing fisheries in federal waters, to protect public access to the red snapper fishery. A controversial amendment to divide the recreational red snapper sector is currently open for public comment, which ends on March 17, 2015.

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