Political Quotes

“Mr. Chairman, I rise in opposition to this amendment, and in support of the National Ocean Policy established by President Obama, an issue also championed by our junior Senator from Rhode Island, Senator Sheldon Whitehouse. Far from being government overreach, National Ocean Policy is an excellent example of how government engages and partners with our States and local communities. In the Northeast, we recently celebrated the release of the draft Northeast Ocean plan for management of Federal waters off the coast of New England. Since 2012, the Regional Planning Body has worked with our constituents to build a plan that will be responsive to our region's needs. This type of collaboration would not have been possible without the implementation of the National Ocean Policy, which requires agencies to work together in a more efficient and collaborative manner. Due to this important program, we are now moving toward a more effective use of our common ocean resources. Mr. Chairman, our oceans are enjoyed and utilized by beachgoers, commercial fishermen, boaters, recreational anglers, wind farms, and others. With proper collaboration, these mixed uses can thrive. So I ask all of my colleagues to oppose this amendment. By supporting National Ocean Policy, we can continue to engage our citizens, effectively use our resources, and ensure that our ocean is sustainable for years to come.”