This just in…
According to a new study by The Center for Public Integrity, NPR, WBUR and the U.S. Dept. of Labor, commercial fishing is the deadliest job in America.
I have my share of friends in the commercial fishing industry. It’s a crazy, unpredictable, sometimes, risky business. They are all alive to tell their fishy tales, but there are plenty that aren’t.
How is that happening in today’s market?
Here’s the simple answer:
- Commercial fishing vessels don’t get inspected (unless there’s an accident or incident).
- Regulation is costly.
That’s a high price to pay, IMO.
What’s the solution?
Not an easy answer, apparently. Read more here:
On another note, here are two recent pieces of legislation (both pending) in fisheries management.
Pirate Fishing Elimination Act aka (IUU) Illegal, Unreported & Unregulated. According to Oceana, this bipartisan bill is headed to the Senate, and if ratified, would be the first binding international agreement to combat illegal fishing.
SAFE (Safety And Fraud Enforcement for Seafood Act) H.R. 6200. A bipartisan bill that would protect American fishermen & consumers. It would improve traceability, increase inspections (remember 85-86% of seafood in the US is imported) and dole out fines & penalties.
Maybe you know someone in the commercial fishing industry that lost their life, or put themselves at danger every time they kiss you goodbye for the day. Or maybe you, like me, want to know where your fish comes from.
Need to know more?
- Commercial Seafood Consumer Protection Act
- EDF Oceans
- NOAA Fisheries: Office of Sustainable Fisheries
Want to take action? Contact your Congressman or Congresswoman, or track the status of the pending legislation mentioned above.
