Cassidy Urges Action Against Unfair Seafood Subsidies, Shrimp Dumping

Press Release

Today, Congressman Bill Cassidy (R-LA) is urging the Presidential Task Force on Combating Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated Fishing and Seafood Fraud (Task Force) to examine how unfair seafood subsidies are allowing foreign seafood companies to dump product on the U.S. market and unfairly compete with domestic fishermen, and to look at ways federal agencies can combat this problem. Dr. Cassidy is also urging the Task Force to look at strengthening seafood labeling so consumers know where their seafood is coming from and whether it is wild-caught or a farm-raised product, but to be mindful of the effects and costs of any new regulations.

Dr. Cassidy offered the following statement:

"Louisiana is a leader in the seafood industry. We take pride in our fisheries and our food. It is unfair that seafood subsidies are allowing foreign companies to dump products into U.S. markets, giving them an advantage over Louisiana industries. Our fisheries and the thousands of jobs that come with them must be protected from the harmful consequences of these actions."

Dr. Cassidy along with Senator Vitter introduced the Offshore Fairness Act to prevent Washington from interfering with Louisiana fisheries by giving the state more control over its territorial waters.

Source