The Legislative Press and Public Information Bureau
Distributed June 8, 2000
For more information,
contact: Dana Rae DelSignore, Publicist
State House Room 20
(401) 222-2457
Email: ddelsignore@rilin.state.ri.us
Bill would allocate funds to replenish depleted fish and shellfish populations
STATE HOUSE -- To help bolster the finfish and shellfish population in Rhode Island's waters, Rep. Eileen S. Naughton (D-Dist. 32) of Warwick has introduced legislation that would allocate funds towards fishery enhancement.
Under the bill (2000-H 7854), money collected from recreational and commercial fishing license fees would be used exclusively to enhance fisheries within the state. The funds would be used to protect and increase the number of finfish, lobsters and shellfish in Rhode Island waters. The money would also be used to transplant shellfish from closed areas.
Representative Naughton introduced the legislation to help restore the area's natural resources, which have dwindled in the past few years. For example, Rhode Island fishermen can no longer catch winter flounder because the fish are in such short supply, Naughton said.
"More shellfish would improve the water quality, since they act as natural filters," said Representative Naughton, who chairs the General Assembly's Aquaculture Commission. "This bill would allow us to take the money culled from license fees and direct it back into the state's waterways, where it is most needed."
Under the legislation, all money received from licensing fees would be allocated to the Department of Environmental Management (DEM) and used to enhance fisheries. The funds could then be used to maintain the state's natural resources and improve the state's waters. Currently, DEM receives only a portion of the fees, some of which go into the state's general fund.
In the past year, DEM has issued a total of 41,377 commercial and recreational fishing licenses, bringing in more than $700,000 in fees. These fees are eligible for matching funds under several federal laws.
"Developing a sustainable program for marine life will ensure the vitality of Narragansett Bay's ecosystem," Representative Naughton said.
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