Political Quotes

“Tomorrow the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration will begin charging New England fishermen new fees--$710 per fishing trip, to be exact--that could destroy an historic industry. Granite State fishermen--just 10 remaining boat operators--are already struggling under regulations that severely limit their catch. Now fishermen like David Goethel will also be responsible for the cost of Federal contractors who monitor them at sea. NOAA has always paid these associated costs. The agency has delayed implementation of new fees several times over the years, but somehow NOAA has always found the extra money in its $6 billion budget. In my letter to the chief administrator, I asked where the money is going, and the agency can't account for much of it, nor can they appreciate nor understand the economic impact of its regulations. The gentleman from Maine (Mr. Poliquin) and I introduced legislation to stop NOAA's new fees. An historic way of life and good jobs up and down the New England coast are at stake. I ask for your help. ____________________”