The U.S. House of Representatives has approved new legislation that includes a number of fishing vessel safety improvements championed by Massachusetts Congressman Barney Frank.
The 2010 Coast Guard Reauthorization bill increases funding for the Coast Guard, and enhances its ability to carry out homeland security missions. The bill passed the House by a vote of 385-11.
But, at Frank’s initiative, the legislation also establishes marine safety as a core mission of the Coast Guard, creates a fishing safety training grant program, calls for new federally funded research on improving safety technology within the industry, and updates other safety requirements, including new safety standards for vessels of over 50 feet.
"Fishing is a dangerous business," Frank said in a prepared statement. "But there is a lot that can be done to minimize the hazards faced by fishermen.
Read the complete story at The Gloucester Daily Times.
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During the debate of this legislation on the House Floor Representative Elijah Cummings, Chairman of the Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation, and Congressman James Oberstar, Chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, described Congressman Frank as "a vigorous advocate for his fishing community" and praised his efforts on this legislation.
Read the statements of Chairmen Cummings and Oberstar on Congressman Frank’s website.