Cunningham Bill to Protect Lowcountry Fisheries from Impact of Climate Change Passes Committee

Washington, D.C. - Today, the House Natural Resources Committee voted to pass the Climate-Ready Fisheries Act of 2019, bipartisan legislation to help Lowcountry fisheries manage the current and anticipated impact of climate change. Reps. Brian Mast (R-FL), Francis Rooney (R-FL), and Jared Huffman (D-CA) are original cosponsors.

The Climate-Ready Fisheries Act of 2019 directs the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to examine what actions have already been taken by fishery managers, identify whether any knowledge or funding gaps are hindering action, and provide recommendations for how we can better adapt fishery management, and prepare fishing industries and communities for the impacts of climate change. It also directs the GAO to offer recommendations for how Congress can enhance our nation’s science and management systems to better address climate change.

“Lowcountry fishermen and women are some of the hardest working people in South Carolina, and climate change has put their way of life under direct attack. We know that well-managed fisheries are resilient fisheries. The Climate-Ready Fisheries Act gives our fishermen the tools they need to continue fishing sustainably for generations to come,” said Rep. Cunningham. “I’m proud this bipartisan legislation is now on its way to the House floor, so that we can learn what is working, what is not, and how we can be the best possible stewards of our natural resources.” 

“Healthy waterways are critical to our environment and economy—supporting the businesses in our communities that rely on fishing and tourism to thrive,” Rep. Mast said. “I’m glad we were able to work together to get this bill passed out of committee, and I look forward to continuing the fight to protect our local fisheries and promote healthier ecosystems for generations to come.”