Local Fishing Captain Supports Bill Straus
As a Fishing Industry constituent of the 10th Bristol District, I would like to voice my support for Rep. Bill Straus and explain why. Things have not always been so lucrative for the scallop fleet. Bill Straus played a vital role in creating the successful scallop fishery we now enjoy.
Over twenty years ago, the scallop industry was in a period of decline due to unrelated federal seafood regulations that were directed at groundfish like cod and haddock. Bill Straus listened to local scallopers and helped advocate for sensible rule changes to help the scallop fleet without interfering with the conservation needs to protect the groundfish fleet. His advocacy was crucial to the development of a new successful scallop management plan.
This program has been a big success for the Port of New Bedford and in 2021 the scallop industry pumped in over $375 million to the local economy. This economic input helps everyone from local restaurants to car dealerships.
And more recently when the start of the 2021 scallop season was stalled within the federal bureaucracy, Bill Straus acted promptly. When scallopers like myself and others reached out to him, Bill wrote to the White House seeking prompt and expedited review. He got the results that made a difference and the Feds responded.
Bill has always been available to listen to any concerns brought before him and has not hesitated to advocate, and join with other local legislators, to help promote the local industry.
As a resident of Rep Straus’ district, I am also appreciative of his efforts to benefit my community. The South Coast Rail project, the local bike path, safety improvements along the Route 6 corridor, support of local transportation vitally important to the elderly, addressing food insecurity and Bill’s overall support of the town governments of Fairhaven, Mattapoisett, Marion, and Rochester are but a few examples.
My support is squarely behind Rep. Bill Straus and I ask you to join me when you vote in the Democratic primary on Tuesday, September 6.
Eric Hansen, Marion, F/V Endeavor and F/V Intrepid
•••
Click here to download the entire 8/4/22 issue: 08-04-22 QuahogRelay
Support local journalism, donate to the Neighb News with PayPal
