Seafood Harvesters of America Statement on the Ocean-Based Climate Solutions Act

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 8, 2021

Media Contacts: Blake Androff, (202) 234-1224

Leigh Habegger, (703) 794-5114

Seafood Harvesters of America Statement on the Ocean-Based Climate Solutions Act

WASHINGTON, DC—Today, Seafood Harvesters of America Executive Director Leigh Habegger released the following statement after House Natural Resources Committee Chairman Grijalva (D-NM) introduced the Ocean-Based Climate Solutions Act, a bill that recognizes the role of the ocean and coasts in addressing the climate crisis:

“The Seafood Harvesters of America is pleased to see the recognition of the importance of U.S. seafood in this bill, as well as the removal of the prescriptive ‘30x30’ language. As we continue to review this legislation, we will keep an eye towards its impacts on the commercial fishing industry and ensure that our members have a meaningful seat at the table during the legislative process. 

“Commercial fishermen are on the frontlines of climate change, bearing witness to the changes in our ocean in real time. Our Regional Fishery Management Councils have and will continue to work with the fishing industry and other stakeholders to adapt and manage in the face of a changing ocean. We recognize the need to address climate change and look forward to being part of the solution so seafood stays on the plates of U.S. consumers.

“Our experiences and expertise will continue to be critical in finding a path forward that meaningfully addresses climate change while also supporting the 1.2 million jobs in the seafood industry. As the House Natural Resources Committee and the bill’s supporters work on this legislation, we strongly urge them to include the fishing industry in their discussions, outreach, and the legislative process. This bill has the potential to have significant impacts on our businesses and consumers’ access to sustainable seafood and we look forward to working with Congress on the pressing issues facing our ocean.”

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Seafood Harvesters of America (SHA) is the leading national organization of commercial fishermen, representing 19 different fishing associations from Alaska to Hawaii to Florida to Maine.

You can view a PDF of this statement here.