WASHINGTON — A long-simmering debate over federal fishing quotas and their economic impact on Florida and other coastal states could reach a boiling point this year as Congress considers changes to a landmark marine conservation law.
The fishing industry is pressuring Congress to ease annual catch limits for summer flounder, red snapper and other species, saying quotas are squeezing commercial and recreational fishing businesses and depriving coastal communities of billions in revenue.
The issue is particularly emotional along the Gulf Coast of Florida, where catch limits on grouper and red snapper and other federally managed fish, have ravaged industry-dependent businesses, including restaurants, hotels and charter boat operations.
Critics like Pensacola fisherman and charter boat Capt. Ronnie Hogue say the government is using outdated science to set the catch limits under the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act.
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