Political Quotes

“I oppose this amendment that is offered here today, which would block funding for the implementation of National Ocean Policy. The National Ocean Policy seeks to improve the coordinated management of our oceans and coasts and to address the most pressing issues facing our oceans, resources, and coastal communities. In fact, just 2 weeks ago, there were over 100 different ocean users meeting in Massachusetts to help develop New England's ocean plan. This included lobstermen from Maine, my home State; science educators from New Hampshire, fishermen from Massachusetts, clean energy representatives from Rhode Island, and recreational fishermen from Connecticut, all meeting with Federal and State agencies to talk about how to improve their options for their local businesses, build resiliency for coastal communities in the face of extreme weather events, and maintain the health of the ocean that provides us with goods and services we need and enjoy. The National Ocean Policy does not call for ``zoning'' the ocean. Rather, it is a strategy to increase efficiency by bringing stakeholders together and giving citizens and businesses a voice in the decisionmaking process. This policy provides a way for the Federal Government to hear from and to coordinate activities with States, communities, and business owners. Many State and local interests are eager to coordinate with the Federal Government, and this policy is already helping to make that happen. Let's be clear.…”