Webster Bill Supports Florida's Sharks and Fisherman

Washington, DC – Today, Congressman Daniel Webster (R-Clermont) introduced The Sustainable Shark and Fisheries Trade Act of 2019 (H.R. 788). Co-introduced with Reps. Ted Lieu (D-CA), Bill Posey (R-FL), Gus Bilirakis (R-FL), Don Young (R-AK), Jose Serrano (D-NY), Jeff Fortenberry (R-NE), Rodney David (R-IL), Peter King (R-NY), Walter Jones (R-NC), Paul Tonko (D-NY), Ted Yoho (R-FL), Matt Gaetz (R-FL) and Brian Higgins (D-NY) this bipartisan bill provides a commonsense solution for Shark trade and conservation. 

"As a Floridian and member of the House Natural Resources Committee, responsible oversight of our nation’s wildlife, environment, and fishing industry is one of my priorities," Rep. Webster said. "American fishermen have made sacrifices to rebuild and sustain our shark populations. In the United States, we hold high standards for conservation and fishery management. "

H.R. 788 would require any country that seeks to export shark, ray, and skate to the US to first demonstrate it has a system of science-based management to prevent overfishing and a prohibition on the practice of shark finning. The country must also receive certification from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration that its fisheries management policies are on par with US practices. By holding imports to the same standards that domestic fisheries already meet, this bipartisan legislation levels the playing field for our fishermen and helps maintain vibrant and economically-viable fishing communities, both on U.S. shores and around the world. 

"I am grateful for the support of 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, and the Wildlife Conservation Society," Webster added.

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