Fishery Support: New Rules for Fishery Disaster Relief
This act improves the disaster relief program for fishermen affected by events like floods or pollution. It defines what qualifies as a disaster, simplifies the application process for aid, and speeds up fund disbursement. The goal is to provide quicker financial support to fishing communities and help restore marine resources after unforeseen events.
Key points
Expands the definition of a fishery resource disaster to include natural, human-caused, and undetermined causes, increasing eligibility for aid.
Streamlines the application process for disaster relief, allowing for faster response to the needs of fishermen and fishing-dependent communities.
Establishes clear timelines for reviewing requests and disbursing funds, providing greater predictability for those affected.
Prioritizes eligible uses of funds, including habitat restoration, scientific research, fishing capacity reduction, and direct financial assistance to affected individuals.
Authorizes increased appropriations for the program, totaling $377 million for fiscal years 2021 through 2026, meaning more financial support.
Expired
Additional Information
Print number: 117_S_2923
Sponsor: Sen. Wicker, Roger F. [R-MS]
Process start date: 2021-09-30