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| 'Freedom to Fish' Act Swims Through New Jersey Legislature |
| Marine ecosystems, just as important -- and just as threatened -- as terrestrial ecosystems, are a public resource that should be managed for the public good. One crucial management tool is the creation of fully protected marine areas, where no extractive activities are allowed, which benefit fish populations, other marine life, and the entire coastline by providing a refuge for marine animals. A bill making its way through the New Jersey Legislature would make it almost impossible to set up fully protected marine areas, denying the state an important conservation tool. SB 2323 and AB 3326, which have both passed out of committee, would prohibit the creation of areas closed to recreational fishing unless the state can prove that recreational fishing is the cause of a specific problem. The legislation puts the burden of proof on those who want to protect marine resources rather than on those who are consuming -- and potentially harming -- them before taking action. Clearly, this is a dangerous precedent. Similar legislative language, promoted by the Recreational Fishing Alliance, has been introduced in eight other states -- California, Delaware, Maryland, New York, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Texas, and Washington. These bills would make it impossible for states to protect and restore ocean ecosystems. This bill unnecessarily restricts a state's ability to manage its coastal habitats. If your state has a coastline, watch out for this type of bill. |
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Phone: 608-252-9800 § Fax: 608-252-9828
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106 East Doty Street, Suite 200 § Madison, Wisconsin 53703
Phone: 608-252-9800 § Fax: 608-252-9828
Email: [email protected]
