Fishery Management Amendments of 2006

H.R. 4940, the Fishery Management Amendments of 2006, proposes several changes to federal fishing laws to balance environmental conservation with the economic needs of the fishing industry. The bill would require that decisions to label a fish population as "depleted" be based on peer-reviewed science and allow for more flexible timelines to rebuild fish stocks in areas where multiple species are managed together.

For those working in the industry, the bill would provide practical support by offering grants for healthcare coverage, funding for safety training and equipment, and investments in coastal infrastructure like commercial wharves. Additionally, it aims to strengthen the future of the profession by establishing a national fishery research network and creating educational programs to increase the number of experts in fishery science.