I do NOT support this petition. The Menhaden fishery is among the most rigorously regulated fisheries in the world, supported by comprehensive scientific research that underpins its established ERP benchmarks. These benchmarks demonstrate a highly robust menhaden population, one that effectively supports the dietary needs of all its prey species and exceeds the established targets by a significant margin. 

As a migratory species along the Atlantic East Coast, much like striped bass and bluefish, there is no such thing as a "local population" in the Chesapeake Bay. The notion of "localized depletion" contradicts established scientific understanding and is not supported by leading fisheries biologists.

Additionally, imposing arbitrary regulations that differentiate between reduction and bait sectors creates a concerning precedent. Such measures not only threaten the viability of the menhaden fishery but could also set a troubling example for all commercial fisheries.