Scientists and Administrators Support Marine Sanctuaries and Monuments at House Hearing
SEAFOODNEWS.COM By Peggy Parker -- September 30, 2015
The oversight hearing on Marine National Monuments held by the House Subcommittee on Water, Power, and Oceans, opened with a clear criticism of President Obama’s use of the Antiquities Act to “lock up” vast areas of ocean from commercial interests.
Chairman John Fleming (R-LA) said the purpose of the hearing was to “look at the lesser known side of the Antiquities Act in the designation of marine national monuments.”
Fleming said he is concerned “when the president abuses the Antiquities Act as a means to shut off multiples uses of lands and water.
“This is a tool Obama has used more than any president to date,” Fleming noted.
Ranking member Jared Huffman (D-CA), opened with an opposing view.
“America’s coral reefs, keep forests and submarine canyons have incredible value as fish factories and as banks of biodiversity. I fear that the majority is holding this hearing as an attempt to pit conservation interests against fishing industry.
“I think most Americans would reject this as a false choice. They understand...
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