We need all eyes and ears out on the water as we can at this point.

We are in the midst of a real crisis that has decimated the fishing industry in New England, particularly the small fisherman.

I have heard from New Hampshire fishermen that this fee is entirely unaffordable and will be the final straw to force many out of the industry.

The other thing that I just wanted to get you to comment on, because it is good news...

So, who is actually pushing to keep the leasing system opaque?

I certainly intend to work with this committee, I know Senator Vitter does, as well, and other Senate committees to see if we can address some of these issues in a way that is more positive.

So, what you are suggesting is that we really need some funding that will allow NOAA to work with the industry in putting together the research in particular areas where we need to get more information about what is happening and to be…

These cuts have been disastrous. Revenues have plummeted and many fishermen have been forced out of business.

I think our goal is the same and that is to see a well-managed fishing stock and a robust industry for fishing in the United States.

We are losing 47,000 people a year. In New Hampshire, we are losing more than a person a day due to drug overdoses.

They are looking for funding because they do not have the resources they need.

We are not talking about just treating overdoses and heroin and opioid abuse, but often there is a mental health issue that accompanies that.