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A proposed rule by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) would reduce navigation safety, endanger mariners, and threaten the viability of Florida, South Carolina, and North Carolina ports. The proposed rule would also impact the boating and fishing industries and communities of those states.      

U.S. Senators Marco Rubio (R-FL) and Lindsey Graham (R-SC) sent a letter to NOAA Administrator Richard Spinrad sharing their concerns over the proposed rule.

Senators Tim Scott (R-SC), Richard Burr (R-NC), Thom Tillis (R-NC), and Rick Scott (R-FL) also signed the letter. 

• “[A]pplying the NARW [North Atlantic Right Whale] speed restrictions to pilot vessels ‘would be dangerous for pilots and the crews that operate these boats, would increase pilot/pilot boat crew fatigue, would negatively impact port efficiency in ports throughout the country, and would unduly burden both the vessel master and pilot during the very time when they need to be focused on the safe operation of the vessel.’”

• “Again, while we support NOAA’s efforts to protect the NARW, these efforts should not put mariners in danger, or unnecessarily disrupt the maritime supply chain that is so important to our country’s economy and national security.”

Want more information? Read the full letter here.