August 27, 2013 — ANNAPOLIS — Maryland watermen will have their chance to be heard in front of the Administrative, Executive and Legislative Review Committee at 2:30 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 28 in Annapolis.
The emergency regulations put on the menhaden fishery this season by the state Department of Natural Resources expire on Thursday, Aug. 29. The permanent regulations wouldn’t take effect until Monday, Sept. 2, leaving a gap of time that watermen wouldn’t have to operate under the provisions of the emergency regulations.
Recently, DNR requested that the emergency regulations be expanded until the permanent ones could be put into effect. The action brings the regulations in front of the AELR Committee, which had to hear the request this week due to when the emergency regulations expire, according to a spokesman for the Department of Legislative Services.
For watermen, this is a chance for their voice to be heard on regulations that some, like Bob Newberry, who is a co-organizer for the Harvesters Land and Sea Coalition, say are negatively affecting their livelihood and aren’t necessary.
“We’re just asking for our day in front of the AELR Committee to explain our side of the situation,” Newberry said.
Read the full story at the Easton Star Democrat