“The HELP for Wildlife Act – which really should be titled the ‘HELP for Wildlife and Fisheries Act’ – contains a number of provisions important to the recreational fishing industry,” said Scott Gudes, ASA’s vice president of Government Affairs. “This bill will improve fishing access and conserve fishery resources for the benefit of fresh- and saltwater anglers, and we commend the Senate EPW committee for moving it forward.”
Specific provisions supported by ASA include:
- Protections for traditional fishing tackle from unwarranted regulation by the EPA.
- Authorizing the National Fish Habitat Partnerships program which will conserve, restore and enhance fish habitat throughout the nation, providing better fishing opportunities.
- Provisions beneficial to the health of the Chesapeake Bay.
- Reauthorization of important conservation programs like the North American Wetlands Conservation Act and of the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation.
Now passed out of committee, the HELP for Wildlife Act next moves to the floor of the U.S. Senate to be voted on by the full Senate at a later date.
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