As noted in previous posts, the local fishing fleet is facing one of the most restrictive years in history.  Draconian cuts to individual fishing quotas have left most vessels tied the docks while others have been forced to sell their businesses and leave the industry all together.  This fishing crisis has attracted national attention and there has been great traction for the passage of legislation that would make emergency financial assistance available for those who have been affected by this federal fisheries management failure.

Just this week, a piece of landmark legislation sailed through the U.S. House of Representatives, and found similar support in the Senate with strong backing from State Senators Elizabeth Warren and Ed Markey. You can read more about this important and much needed aid package at the Gloucester Daily Times website by clicking here and here.