"I oppose this petition because it lacks a scientific foundation and reflects a misunderstanding of the sustainability of our fishery. The Menhaden fishery is already among the most tightly regulated, with purse seine fishing being one of the most environmentally responsible methods.

The real issue lies in the hostility directed at our fishery by its opponents. Proposals like this, which aim to impose unnecessary restrictions, overlook the robust measures already in place to maintain healthy fish stocks and disregard the detrimental impact such restrictions would have on our rural community, our employees, and their families."