Legislation Set to End Drift Gillnets in All U.S. Waters
With passage in the Senate, U.S. House set to vote on Driftnet Modernization and Bycatch Reduction Act
The Driftnet Modernization and Bycatch Reduction Act (S. 906/H.R. 1979) would bring commercial swordfish fishing in California in line with other U.S. and international swordfish fisheries. If passed into law, it would phase out the use of indiscriminate mile-long, large-mesh drift gillnets there by 2020. In July 2020, the U.S. Senate passed S. 906 by unanimous consent. The last remaining hurdle is to pass the bill through the House of Representatives. We expect a vote on the bill NEXT WEEK! Please tell your Congressman to VOTE YES on the Driftnet Modernization and Bycatch Reduction Act!
Drift gillnets are an outdated commercial fishing method that produce excessive bycatch and waste, including popular sportfish, marine mammals and sea turtles. Half of their catch is discarded as unwanted, prohibited, or protected species. It’s time large-mesh drift gillnets are eliminated from California as they have been throughout the rest of the country.
Supported by many recreational fishing organizations, the bill would help transition this fishery away from wasteful large-mesh drift gillnets to more sustainable gear types. It will ensure that all U.S. waters are free of this highly destructive fishing gear.
Ask your U.S. Representatives to VOTE YES on the Driftnet Modernization and Bycatch Reduction Act. Please review the message below and feel free to add your own words.
Click the link below to log in and send your message:
https://www.votervoice.net/BroadcastLinks/PuvJmaFhH4FIx2NO6L5-Qg
- FROM CCA PRESS RELEASE
Category: Causes, Science and Environmental
