July 21, 2021 — Massachusetts’ fishing industry is being urged to apply for nearly $24 million in federal coronavirus relief funds.
Gov. Charlie Baker’s administration said Tuesday that commercial fishermen, shellfish farmers and seafood processors, and for-hire recreational vessel owners are eligible for the aid through $2.2 trillion stimulus bill passed by Congress last year.
Baker said the funds are meant to mitigate losses incurred last year when demand for seafood and for-hire fishing services declined.
“The fishing industry was particularly hard hit during the pandemic, with very limited exports of seafood and a big downturn in restaurant sales,” said Lt. Gov. Karyn Polito said in a statement. “The distribution of an additional $23.8 million will give needed relief to fishermen and fishing related businesses who have been severely impacted by the pandemic.”