CONTACT YOUR LOCAL CONGRESSMAN: 
 
https://www.boatingunited.org/take-action/congress-protect-boaters-speed-restrictions/?
 
Summary
 
In this conversation, Katie C. Sawyer and John DePersenaire discuss the proposed rule for the North Atlantic right whale situation and its implications for boaters and seaboard communities. They highlight the importance of speed for recreational fishermen and the economic impact of the proposed rule. They also emphasize the need for collaboration and the use of technology to address the issue. The regulatory process and timeline are also discussed. The conversation discusses the dual path process of rulemaking, with an interagency review and a public side. The role of the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs (OIRA) is explained, along with the challenges of the public not being aware of any changes made to the rule. The formation and work of the Whale and Vessel Safety Task Force is highlighted. The current stage of the rule being in OIRA's hands is discussed, along with the strategy for the ongoing public comment period. The involvement of the Small Business Administration and the importance of a comprehensive approach are emphasized. The potential of recreational anglers as an untapped resource is mentioned, and a call to action is made to reach out to local congressmen and participate in the Boating United action alert.
 
Takeaways
 
The proposed rule for the North Atlantic right whale situation has significant implications for fishermen, including economic impact and access to fisheries.
Speed is essential for fishermen to reach fishing grounds and maximize their trips, and the proposed rule would greatly restrict their ability to do so.
Collaboration and the use of technology, such as artificial intelligence and marine electronics, can help reduce the risk of vessel strikes on whales.
The regulatory process for the proposed rule involves public comments and review by various agencies, with the final decision taking into account economic impacts and other factors. The rulemaking process involves both an interagency review and a public side, with the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs (OIRA) playing a key role.
The public is not made aware of any changes made to the rule during the interagency review, creating uncertainty.
The Whale and Vessel Safety Task Force is working on a comprehensive approach to reduce vessel strike risk and protect North Atlantic right whales.
The current stage of the rule is in OIRA's hands, and there is an ongoing public comment period.a
The involvement of the Small Business Administration and the need for a balanced approach that considers both industry needs and whale protection are important.
Recreational anglers have the potential to contribute valuable information and technology to mitigate the risk of vessel strikes.