Ryan RayA new federal boating safety provision introduced by U.S. Rep. Gwen Graham and a Republican co-sponsor became law this month.
Language originally offered by Graham and U.S. Rep. Garret Graves of Louisiana was enacted as part of the FY 2016-2017 transportation budget.
The original bill — H.R. 3462, the “Sport Fish Restoration and Recreational Boating Safety Act of 2015” — sought to amend the federal Dingell-Johnson Sport Fish Restoration Act. Specifically, it intended to increase the amount of money from fees charged to boaters and fishermen to be set aside for restore fisheries and enhance boating safety.
The language authorizes state fishery commissions and the Coast Guard Recreational Boating Safety Act to implement the changes.
“I understand how important fishing and boating is to North Florida, especially in Panama City and our coastal communities,” Graham said in a statement Monday. “Our legislation ensures that these funds go back where they belong — to benefit the fishermen and boaters who pay them.”
Graham, a freshman Democrat from Tallahassee who has represented the 2nd Congressional District since 2015, said the legislation shows what Congress can do when members work across the aisle.
The bipartisan theme has permeated her brief career in the House, where she has co-sponsored bills with Miami Republican U.S. Rep. Carlos Curbelo.
“This shows what can be done when Democrats and Republicans, fishermen and conservationists all work together on common sense legislation,” Graham said. “We have a responsibility to keep our oceans healthy and safe for today’s boaters — and so that future generations can continue to enjoy our way of life for years to come.”
