This bill adds Rhode Island as a member of the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council, increasing its voting power in fisheries management decisions.
Seth Magaziner
Representative
RI-2
The "Rhode Island Fishermen's Fairness Act of 2025" amends the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council to include Rhode Island as a member state. This update increases both the total and mandatory voting membership of the council, ensuring Rhode Island's representation in fisheries management decisions.
Rhode Island Fishermen Gain Representation: Bill Adds State to Mid-Atlantic Fishery Council
The Rhode Island Fishermen's Fairness Act of 2025 makes a targeted change to how fishing rules are made in the Mid-Atlantic. Specifically, it officially adds Rhode Island to the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council, the group responsible for developing management plans for fisheries off the coasts of New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, and North Carolina.
More Voices in Fishery Management
This isn't just about adding a name to a list. Bringing Rhode Island into the fold increases the council's total voting members from 21 to 23, and the number of mandatory state-specific seats from 13 to 14. In practical terms, this gives Rhode Island a direct, voting say in decisions about fishing quotas, gear restrictions, and conservation measures that directly impact the livelihoods of its commercial and recreational fishing communities. Before this, while Rhode Island waters border the region, the state didn't have a guaranteed seat at this specific decision-making table. This change aims to ensure the state's perspectives and the interests of its fishermen are formally represented when regional fishery policies are set.