Press Releases

Webster Introduces Commonsense Solution for

Shark Trade and Conservation

Washington, DC – Today, Congressman Daniel Webster (R-Clermont) introduced The Sustainable Shark and Fisheries Trade Act of 2018 (H.R. 5248). Co-introduced with Reps. Ted Lieu (D-CA), Bill Posey (R-FL), Darren Soto (D-FL), Gus Bilirakis (R-FL), Walter Jones (R-NC), and William “Lacy” Clay, Jr. (D-MO) this bipartisan bill provides a commonsense solution for Shark trade and conservation. 

“Fishing is a long-standing profession and treasured American pastime,” said Rep. Webster, who represents a portion of the Gulf Coast and also serves as vice chair of the House Subcommittee on Water Power and Oceans.  “Our responsibility is to balance the needs of the industry with conservation. This bill recognizes the sacrifices American fishermen have made to rebuild and sustain our shark populations. It encourages other nations wishing to export shark products to the United States to adhere to the same high standards for conservation and management.”

First, the bill preserves U.S. commercial fishing jobs, a key component of our state and nation’s economy. Additionally, similar to the effective World Trade Organization shrimp import certification process, the bill requires the U.S. Secretary of Commerce to create a three-year certification process for nations exporting shark products to the U.S.

The bill is also supported by both conservation and fishing organizations across the country including, Mote Marine Laboratory, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), Palm Beach Zoo, SeaWorld, Zoo Miami Foundation, Florida Aquarium, Southeastern Fisheries Association, Directed Sustainable Fisheries, Louisiana Shrimpers, and Garden State Seafood.

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