(RICHMOND, VA)—HB 1610, which would keep Virginia in compliance with the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission's (ASMFC) menhaden management plan, passed the House Agriculture Chesapeake and Natural Resources Committee today. Chesapeake Bay Foundation Senior Regional Ecosystem Scientist Chris Moore released the following statement.
"Now that this essential piece of legislation has cleared a key committee, the management of this economically and ecologically important species is up to Virginia's full House and Senate. Passing this bill is the best chance for Virginia to avoid setting a misguided precedent of failing to comply with the ASMFC's menhaden management plan.
"This modest compromise bill supports businesses while continuing Virginia's longstanding commitment with the ASMFC on managing fisheries up and down the coast. Thank you to Governor Ralph Northam, Delegate Barry Knight, and the House committee for supporting this necessary step for Virginia's fisheries."
