Survival Craft Legislation
NACO, along with our coalition partners Sportfishing Association of California and Golden Gate Fishermans Association, has been successful in gaining approval from a congressional subcommittee of language placed in the House Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Act of 2014 that will grandfather our vessels for out of water survival craft. New construction or major retrofits in cold water areas as determined by the Secretary would be the only ones affected after January, 2016.
NACO wishes to thank everyone that sent in letters or called their congressional members on the topic. This effort was a well coordinated one involving Capt. Bob Zales, II, Captain Ed O’brien, Capt Tom Becker, and Capt. Bob Rush of the National Association of Charterboat Operators, Capt. Ken Franke of the SAC, and Capt. Roger Thomas of the GGFA. We appreciate everyone’s help. This was a huge team effort. The next step is the full congress will vote on it followed by the Senate. We are not done until the President signs the bill. We will be continuing to engage with the Senate on the topic and will be needing your continued help. NACO will be providing the next steps and communication info to you.
NACO attends the NOAA 2nd National Saltwater Recreational Fishing Summit in Alexandria, VA
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration(NOAA) National Marine Fisheries Service held its second National Saltwater Recreational Fishing Summit in Alexandria, VA on April 1-2. This meeting, attended by more than 100 leaders within the saltwater recreational fishing community, provided a forum for identifying important issues and collaborative solutions. NACO has participated in both summits. Captain Bob Zales and Captain Richard Yamada, members of the NACO Board of Directors, attended this summit representing NACO and its sponsoring associations and members.