Shaheen Urges NOAA to Weigh Local Impact of Potential Fishery Buyback and Buyout Programs

Press Release

U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) is voicing concern to federal officials on the potentially negative impact a buyout or buyback program could have on New Hampshire fisherman under a compromise federal fishery disaster relief plan. In a letter sent today to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Shaheen urges the agency to "consider local input from all sectors of the industry" out of concern for the potentially detrimental impact of a federal buyout or industry-funded buyback program, which are intended to reduce fishing capacity through direct purchase.

"Fishing is one of New Hampshire's oldest industries and it retains an important place in our state's economy," Shaheen said. "We need to make sure this industry remains viable and emerges strong after the difficulties our fishermen have been facing. The federal fishery disaster relief plan will help provide immediate relief, however, we need to be planning for long-term investments in the industry's future and be cautious of programs that could diminish the fishing industry further."

Shaheen has been a leader in the bipartisan effort to secure $75 million in disaster relief resources for affected fishing communities in several regions of the country, including $32.8 million in federal fishery disaster funds for New England where the fishing industry has been struggling under onerous catch limit regulations and consequent economic losses. Under the compromise framework allocating $32.8 million toward New England fisheries, one-third of the funds are to be used in developing a federally funded buyout or industry-funded buyback with the other two-thirds being split among New England states and being used for direct assistance. New Hampshire will receive more than $2 million in funds with more than $900,000 going to direct assistance for New Hampshire fishermen and more than $1.1 million to be used at the state's discretion.

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