Urge NOAA To Expand Recreational Access By Approving Red Snapper Season Proposals
On February 11th, the National Marine Fisheries Service (NOAA Fisheries) announced for public comment proposed Exempted Fishing Permit (EFP) requests for Florida, Georgia, South Carolina and North Carolina. Under the leadership of each state, the EFP proposals would allow for red snapper recreational harvest seasons ranging from 39 days to 62 days this year.
If approved, these changes would significantly increase recreational access to red snapper, which was subject to a meager two-day season last year under federal management. They would also allow for testing of state data collection systems, which hold tremendous potential in improving the accuracy and timeliness of recreational landings data. The comment period is open through March 10th, 2026.
To submit a public comment, click here.
NOAA Announces Improved Recreational Data Collection Directive and a Revisit to the Vessel Speed Rule
Last week, NOAA Administrator Dr. Neil Jacobs announced a new state-led partnership to improve fisheries data collection at the federal level. This new collaboration, known as the Recreational Angler Partnership Improvement Directive (RAPID), will invite states to co-design a replacement for the imprecise Marine Recreational Information Program (MRIP), which currently guides federal management decisions. ASA recently co-signed a letter in support of the new partnership, which will increase data accuracy and confidence in recreational data and allow for regional flexibility.
NOAA has also announced it will revisit the 2008 vessel speed rule through an Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPRM). The reopening of this rule begins the deregulatory process and will allow for public comment on improvements including the inclusion of private-sector technology solutions.
ASA welcomes these announcements, and we appreciate NOAA’s clear commitment to working directly with states, commissions, and stakeholders to build a more transparent and credible recreational data program.
Click here to read CSP’s Press Release
The U.S. Signs Trade Deal with Taiwan Reducing Tariffs on Most Goods
On February 12, the U.S. announced the signing of an “Agreement on Reciprocal Trade” with Taiwan, which will reduce reciprocal tariffs applied to Taiwanese goods. Specifically:
• MFN < 15%: Goods with an MFN duty of less than 15% will have an additional IEEPA reciprocal tariff applied to bring the total tariff to 15%.
• MFN ≥ 15%: Goods with an MFN duty greater than or equal to 15% will have no additional IEEPA reciprocal tariff applied.
Click here for more information.
The U.S. Signs Trade Deal with Bangladesh Exempting Certain Textiles and Apparel Goods
On February 9, the U.S. announced the signing of an “Agreement on Reciprocal Trade” with Bangladesh. Per the text of the deal, the U.S. will lower reciprocal tariffs on Bangladesh from 20% to 19% and “establish a mechanism” for a limited volume of specified textile and apparel goods from Bangladesh to face a 0% reciprocal duty.
Click here for more information.
The Make America Beautiful Again Commission Launches New Strategic Initiative
On February 12th, the Make American Beautiful Again Commission launched the strategic initiative MABA250, outlining conservation priorities such as increased public access for outdoor recreation, and habitat and species recovery. This necessary initiative balances economic and energy growth with the stewardship and conservation of America’s wildlife and waters.
Click here to read more about the Administration’s commitment to conservation and key priority areas.
The New York Times: Teddy Roosevelt’s Family Urges G.O.P. to Protect Public Lands
TRCP: Colorado River Decisions Will Shape the Future of Fish, Wildlife, and the Southwest
The Fishing Wire: One-Day Smelt Fishery Announced For Cowlitz River On Wednesday, Feb. 18
KATU: Controversial petition aims to ban hunting, fishing and pest control in Oregon
