Baton Rouge Reporter

WASHINGTON, DC - U.S. Representatives Garret Graves (R-LA), Derek Kilmer (D-WA), Mary Peltola (D-AK), and Rob Wittman (R-VA) have joined forces to launch the bipartisan American Seafood Caucus. The caucus aims to provide a platform for seafood policy advocates to come together and ensure that domestically produced seafood is given the attention it deserves.

The co-chairs of the caucus, representing the United States's four major coastlines, are committed to involving a diverse membership from different regions of the country. Their goal is to create a level playing field for American seafood and fishing communities in both global and domestic markets.

Congressman Graves, a representative from Louisiana, highlighted the challenges faced by fishing communities in his region. He emphasized the need for solutions and expressed optimism about the caucus's potential impact: "Our south Louisiana communities stand to gain from this bipartisan effort."

Congressman Kilmer, who hails from Washington state, spoke passionately about the importance of seafood in his region's heritage. He emphasized the caucus's dedication to ensuring the thriving of the seafood industry, which creates jobs, powers local economies, and preserves traditions for future generations.

Congresswoman Peltola, representing Alaska, stressed the significance of American and Alaskan seafood in feeding millions of people around the world. She called for a national strategy to protect domestic fishermen from exploitative practices by other countries, such as Russia and China.

Congressman Wittman, from Virginia, highlighted the rich maritime heritage and vibrant seafood industry in his state. He expressed pride in joining his colleagues to champion sustainable practices, economic growth, and job creation in coastal communities.

The launch of the American Seafood Caucus has garnered support from various organizations, including the Louisiana Shrimp Association, Gulf Shellfish Farmers Association, Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute, Taylor Shellfish Farms, Pacific Seafood Processors Association, Hama Hama Oysters, Virginia Seafood, and Shellfish Growers of Virginia.

The caucus's formation marks an important step towards prioritizing American seafood and ensuring the well-being of fishing communities across the country. By bringing together members of Congress from different regions and parties, the caucus aims to find common ground and advocate for the health and productivity of our oceans.

To find out more, go to this link: https://garretgraves.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/members-congress-launch-bipartisan-american-seafood-caucus