Political Quotes

“I rise to speak about the National Fish Habitat Conservation Act, which I am introducing today along with my colleagues Senators Crapo, Tester, Bingaman, Murkowski, Whitehouse, Begich, Cardin, and Mark Udall. This legislation would establish the most comprehensive effort ever attempted to treat the causes of fish habitat decline. Healthy waterways and robust fish populations are vital to the well- being of our society and are a staple in many cultures throughout the United States. This bill will help provide clean water and sustainable fisheries in this country and provide recreational value to those who fish wild waters or canoe tranquil streams. This means more recreational fishing opportunity, which translates into more jobs and economic output. Currently, recreational fishing supports approximately one million jobs and $45 billion in direct expenditures. Today, nearly half, 40 percent, of our fish populations are in decline, over 700 species in total, and 50 percent of our Nation's waters are impaired. Unless we act in an informed and coordinated fashion, fish habitats will continue to be lost at a rapid pace. This bill is about better habitat, better recreational fishing opportunity as well as a better economy. Currently, our Nation's efforts to address threats to fish species are often highly disjointed and not extensive enough to reverse this downward trend.…”