MRAA is reviewing a Discussion Draft of the important Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, which provides flexibility to fishery managers and stability for anglers. The Discussion Draft was issued by the House Natural resources Committee. MRAA expects the Committee will introduce the bill in the next several months. Magnuson-Stevens sets fishing plans to re-stock fish and examines the environmental conditions of the nation’s waters and its effect of fish stock by limiting fishing activities.

The draft bill would provide guidance to State, Council and Marine Fisheries Commission fish management plans by allowing a phase-in rebuilding plan over a 3-year period to lessen the economic impacts to fishing communities. It sets general controls for data collection of stock surveys and stock assessments to ensure consistent fisheries management. The draft bill allows local fishing councils to set catch limit requirements based on changes to an ecosystem and the economic needs of the fishing communities within the management measures under the international agreements the U.S. participates.

Magnuson-Stevens is a very important bill for anglers and fish managers. MRAA will closely review the bill and its potential impact on marine retailers.