Enforcement reforms to help Maine fishermen

Statement

Changes make it easier for fishermen to file complaints about unfair or excessive enforcement of regulations

Congresswoman Chellie Pingree welcomed the news today that federal officials are reforming the way they handle complaints about enforcement of fisheries regulations.

"I've been really troubled by the way NOAA has unfairly enforced fisheries regulations," Pingree said. "This announcement shows that Secretary Locke wants to improve that. We shouldn't treat fishermen like they are criminals."

NOAA announced today that fishermen and businesses will have until May 6 to submit complaints about excessive penalties and request a stay of federal fines while the complaints are being reviewed.

Last spring Pingree brought Eric Schwaab, the top federal fisheries official, to Maine and talked to him about fisheries enforcement problems. Then late last year Pingree and Commerce Secretary Gary Locke met with Maine fishermen to talk about this issue.

"All we are asking is for federal officials to listen to fishermen," Pingree said. "I'm glad that NOAA is taking this step and it's a sign they are willing to work to address this important issue."

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