09/26/2022 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 09/26/2022 20:32
"In American Samoa, fishing has always been a way of life, and fishing puts food on the table for our families," said Aumua Amata. "This bill supports the growth and enjoyment of fishing nationwide, connecting youth with nature, and providing proven health benefits. As we live in islands deeply connected to fishing, both commercially and individually, it is heartening to see the future of fishing supported, instilling in many of our youth a lasting appreciation for the benefits of fishing, whether for subsistence or recreation, in saltwater or freshwater."
The Youth Coastal Fishing Program Act of 2022 is led in the House by U.S. Reps. Maria Salazar (R-Fla.) and Donald McEachin (D-Va.), with Rep. Aumua Amata as one of 19 bipartisan cosponsors at introduction. The Senate version was introduced by Senators Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) and Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.).The bill would create a grant program within the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) for projects that take children fishing with priority given to underserved communities.
According to the legislation, a total of $2 million in grants would be distributed to projects that include a recreational fishing experience, offer education about marine science and conservation, and provide information on where or how to fish. Additionally, grant applications will receive priority if focused on serving underserved communities.
The following organizations signed a letter of support for the bill:
American Sportfishing Association
Backcountry Hunters & Anglers
Boat U.S.
Bonefish & Tarpon Trust
Center for Sportfishing Policy
Chesapeake Conservancy
Coastal Conservation Association
Congressional Sportsmen's Foundation
Ebony Anglers
Guy Harvey Ocean Foundation
Hunters of Color
International Game Fish Association
Izaak Walton League of America
Marine Retailers Association of the Americas
National Fishing in Schools Program
National Marine Manufacturers Association
Outdoor Afro
Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership
Wild Oceans
Youth Environmental Alliance
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