08.01.17

Sullivan Chairs Hearing on Magnuson-Stevens Act

WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan (R-AK) today chaired a hearing of the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Subcommittee on Oceans, Atmosphere, Fisheries, & Coast Guard regarding the reauthorization of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (MSA). Among the witnesses was Chris Oliver, an Alaskan testifying for the first time before the subcommittee in his new role as Assistant Administrator for Fisheries at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Oliver previously served as the Executive Director of the North Pacific Fishery Management Council since 2000.

“For so many Alaskans and their families and so many throughout the country, fishing is a way of life. The Magnuson-Stevens Act has played a vital role in protecting Alaska’s abundant fish stocks, ensuring they are strong for future generations,” said Senator Sullivan. “As Congress considers whether or not the MSA is in need of change, it’s important that we not simply rest on previous gains. Since the MSA was last reauthorized, technology has rapidly advanced, yet legislation able to support that technology has not. Better understanding the health of stocks and how technology can assist in that regard, as well as reducing administrative or regulatory burdens on our fishing industry, are topics ripe for discussion and possible elements of a reauthorization. As chairman of the subcommittee, I hope to bring Republicans and Democrats together on a reauthorization that will support a stable food supply, recreational opportunities, and plentiful fishing and processing jobs that provide for vibrant coastal communities.”

In his written statement for the record, Mr. Oliver laid out his vision for the reauthorization of the MSA.

“I believe there are opportunities to have it both ways – to maximize our domestic harvest potential, without compromising the long-term sustainability of the resources we manage,” said Mr. Oliver. “We are committed to working with Congress throughout the Magnuson-Stevens reauthorization process with regards to annual catch limits, accountability measures, stock rebuilding, or other aspects of our management construct, while still protecting the overall, long-term conservation and sustainability of the nation’s fishery resources.”

The full hearing can be viewed at: https://sen.gov/1NL. 

# # #