WASHINGTON, DC (March 12, 2009) – The Center for Biological Diversity, Oceana and the Turtle Island Restoration Network filed two 60-day notices of intent to sue with the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) today over violations of the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Specifically, NMFS failed to meet the legal 12-month deadline for responding to three separate petitions that focused on two sea turtle species in U.S. waters off the East and West coasts.
In addition to demanding that NMFS comply with existing laws, the groups are also calling for stronger protections for sea turtles, including comprehensive legislation that would protect U.S. sea turtles in ocean waters and on land. "The U.S. government has knowingly failed to respond to our petitions," said David Allison, senior campaign director at Oceana. "Sea turtles in all U.S. waters are at risk of extinction and the agency responsible for their protection is failing to do its job. If we hope to ensure the long-term survival of these majestic species, we must move quickly to enact a comprehensive law to protect U.S. sea turtles."
Read this Oceana commentary in full