Jim Saxton: “H.R. 1651 is a package of noncontroversial bills that should pass this body without much debate. The first title amends…”

“H.R. 1651 is a package of noncontroversial bills that should pass this body without much debate. The first title amends the Fisherman's Protective Act to extend the period of time during which reimbursements may be provided to owners of U.S. fishing vessel for costs incurred when a vessel is illegally seized and detained by a foreign country. The time period is extended from October 1, 2000, to October 1, 2003. The second title, the Yukon River Salmon Act of 1999, establishes the Yukon River Salmon Panel, which will advise the Secretary of State regarding negotiations on any international agreement with Canada relating to the management of salmon stocks originating from the Yukon River. In addition, the panel will advise the Secretary of the Interior and the Alaska Department of Fish and Game regarding restoration and enhancement of Yukon River salmon. In 1995, Congress passed the Yukon River Salmon Act as part of the Fisheries Act of 1995. This Act created the Yukon River Salmon Panel, as required in the interim agreement between the United States and Canada for the conservation of Yukon River salmon stocks originating in Canada. This interim agreement expired in March of 1998. The expiration of the interim agreement has made the role of the Yukon Salmon Panel unclear. This legislation authorizes the panel and its activities, regardless of the agreement with Canada.”