Louisiana Senate Bill SCR95

Louisiana 2018 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/26/18
• Refer: 4/30/18
• Report Pass: 5/7/18
• Passed: 5/8/18
• Engrossed: 5/8/18

Caption

Requests the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority and the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries to develop a proposal seeking Open Ocean TIG and RW TIG funds to monitor red snapper and other reef fish impacted by the Deepwater Horizon oil spill.

Impact

The resolution emphasizes that red snapper and other reef fish are critical to the marine ecosystem and to the livelihoods of fishermen in the region. It acknowledges the decline in allowable recreational fishing days for red snapper due to concerns over fish populations, underscoring the necessity for better monitoring and evaluation. By obtaining additional funding and conducting extensive research on the health of these fish populations, Louisiana aims to improve fisheries management and restoration efforts, ensuring the sustainability of this vital resource and benefiting the fishing industry overall.

Summary

Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 95 (SCR95) urges the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority and the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries to develop a proposal seeking funds from the Open Ocean Trustee Implementation Group (TIG) and Region-wide (RW) TIG. The purpose of this funding is to monitor red snapper and other reef fish that have been impacted by the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. SCR95 highlights the ecological and economic importance of these fish species to the Gulf of Mexico, particularly in supporting both recreational and commercial fishing.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding SCR95 appears to be supportive, as it calls for actions aimed at environmental restoration and fish population recovery. Stakeholders in the fishing sector likely view this resolution as a positive step toward addressing the impacts of the oil spill on fishing resources. Nonetheless, concerns remain about the adequacy of funding and the need for comprehensive data to drive effective management decisions. The resolution reflects a shared commitment between state authorities and the fishing community to restore and maintain healthy fish populations.

Contention

While SCR95 supports the monitoring and conservation of fish impacted by the Deepwater Horizon disaster, one point of contention could arise around funding limitations and whether the proposed efforts will adequately address the needs of all species affected. There is also a necessity to balance ecological restoration with economic interests, as additional regulations and monitoring may affect the fishing practices of local communities. The resolution does solicit state funds to supplement federal resources, but the effectiveness of these combined efforts will depend on collaborative and transparent processes among stakeholders.