The Bipartisan FISHES Act (H.R. 5103), aimed at streamlining federal disaster relief for fisheries, was signed into law this past weekend by President Biden.
The legislation, formally titled the “Fishery Improvement to Streamline Untimely Regulatory Hurdles post Emergency Situation Act,” marks a significant step toward addressing delays in disaster aid for communities impacted by fishery-related crises.
The bill, sponsored by Congressman Byron Donalds (R-FL) and supported in the Senate by Senator Rick Scott (R-FL), received unanimous support in both chambers of Congress.
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It aims to expedite relief distribution following official fishery disaster declarations, a process often hampered by bureaucratic delays.
“For years, fishery disaster determinations across our nation have been left pending due to bureaucratic inaction,” said Congressman Donalds. “This includes the catastrophic devastation caused by Hurricane Ian to our Southwest Florida community. This is a national problem; this is wrong; this must change.” Donalds expressed gratitude to Congress and the President for advancing the legislation, highlighting its importance for coastal communities and the broader fishery industry.
“Proud to help lead the charge to get Florida’s fishing industry the relief it needs. As your U.S. Senator, I’ll continue fighting for every Floridian recovering from storms,” said Senator Rick Scott on X.
Since 2012, the state of Florida alone has requested fishery disaster declarations seven times, underscoring the urgent need for reform. The Bipartisan FISHES Act ensures that affected communities can access federal relief funds more quickly, reducing the economic strain on fishing industries and local economies after disasters.
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“Government must put the American people first, and I am proud to stand up for coastal communities across our nation,” Donalds added.
The bill garnered the endorsement of 160 entities, including 107 organizations representing a wide range of stakeholders, such as the Gulf States Marine Fisheries Commission, American Sportfishing Association, and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Industry associations, environmental groups, and local business coalitions also backed the legislation.
Supporters highlighted the critical role of the fishing industry in local economies and the need to remove bureaucratic barriers to disaster relief.
The FISHES Act is expected to have a nationwide impact, providing a faster, more efficient process for distributing federal disaster funds to fisheries.
By expediting relief, the law aims to mitigate the long-term economic and environmental effects of disasters, particularly in coastal regions heavily reliant on fishing industries.
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