The spark of protest spread in such a way that S.C. Senate has adopted a resolution to officially oppose the proposed federal law that would close the red snapper fisheries along the state coastline. It is said that the law would end nearly all bottom fishing offshore because the popular snapper is a bottom-dwelling fish.
As the resolution was approved by voice vote without a debate and the bill now goes to the House for action, where similar legislation is pending. The move is in reaction to a pending action by the South Atlantic Fishery Management Council, part of a new federal law that requires regional councils to end overfishing.
According to the regulators the move is needed to help restore a fish population considered to be in a long-term decline; anglers say not enough research has been done on a species that is widely caught. Sen. Paul Campbell, R-Goose Creek, said he supported the resolution because the consequences would be too much when the impact on tourism and the money invested by fishermen in boats and crews is factored in.
