The federal government is proposing a 12% reduction for the recreational black sea bass fishery in 2018, including party and charter boats, despite the fact that the black sea bass fishery has been rebuilt to 2½ times what regulators consider to be sustainable. This action discriminates against the State of New York. It would have a significant adverse effect on the Long Island economy.

The State of New York should utilize every legal and administrative tool at its disposal to overturn this ill-considered federal proposal. New York should not be at a disadvantage with other states on the East Coast. Again and again, we have seen politics replace science to the detriment of New York State fishermen, whether they are recreational anglers, charter boat captains, or commercial fishermen. When the federal government is arbitrary and capricious, the state must say “no”.

If all other solutions fail, we agree with the Commissioner that non-compliance is a legitimate remedy. This has not been an isolated case of discrimination against New York State. Unfortunately, this is part of a long history of federal action that has strangled the fishing industry in New York to the benefit of other states. DEC advocacy for our fishing industry is long overdue.