The debate about the scientific methods that determined a red snapper ban is necessary may be taking the first steps toward becoming a political discussion about changing fisheries laws.
A congressional subcommittee last week held an oversight hearing on the implementation of the Magnuson-Stevens Act, the rules that spell out how fishery conservation and management are conducted.
The same subcommittee is being petitioned to consider bills to alter fisheries management. Local fishermen who have been fighting proposed bans for months are watching developments closely.