Legislation 1st District Assemblymen Nelson Albano and Matthew Milam sponsored to help secure the long-term economic future of New Jersey’s saltwater fisheries and aquaculture industries. And for this a 19-member Task Force will be establish to navigate a course for growth and expansion in the potentially lucrative industries. It is said that commercial fishing and aquaculture contribute over $150 million annually to New Jersey’s economy. Recreational fishing contributes $45 million in sales tax revenue.
Albano told that despite saltwater fisheries and aquaculture having a high potential for growth, the state has not been able to provide the long-term strategic support these industries need to flourish. He also said that the state needs to be an active partner in electing a systematic course for growth. Milam informed that this is the first time a state entity will look into the strengths and weaknesses of these industries to develop forward-looking strategies for expansion. He also told that of the 19 members in the task force, three would be the Senate and three from the Assembly. Members also would be appointed from the academic community, groups involved in the maritime industries, and the Marine Fisheries Council.
