I wrote my congressman about this bad piece of legislation. Here is the response. Dear Dan:
Thank you for contacting me regarding legislation regarding invasive species. It is good to hear from you.
The legislation would amend the Nonindigenous Aquatic Nuisance Prevention and Control Act of 1990 to establish aquatic invasive species prevention requirements for all vessels operating in U.S. waters. It would require the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating to promulgate regulations for ballast water management standards and certification procedures. It would also direct the Aquatic Invasive Species Task Force to establish a priority pathway management program that identifies those pathways that pose the highest risk for the introduction of aquatic invasive species unless further managed. It would further prohibit the importation of live aquatic organisms not in trade without specified screening and approval.
While I wish to see native American species thriving without danger from foreign animals, I am also very sensitive to the costs that come whenever government (especially federal government) passes yet another regulation. There are already many laws aimed at protecting indigenous species and I'm not sure if the possible benefits of passing another one outweigh the inevitable costs. Please be assured that I will keep your thoughts in mind as this issue is debated.
Thank you again for contacting me. I will keep your thoughts in mind as Congress works to address the needs of American families. Please don't hesitate to inform me of your concerns in the future. To sign up for email updates, I invite you to visit my website
