Palm Coast Times

U.S. Congressman Mike Waltz and Chairman of the House Oversight and Accountability James Comer have raised concerns over a proposed rule by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) that could impact commercial vessels and supply chains while aiming to protect whales' habitats.

In a letter addressed to NOAA Administrator Richard Spinrad, Congressman Waltz expressed his apprehensions about the potential negative effects of the proposed expanded habitat protections for the Rice and North Atlantic right whales. He emphasized that the rule could endanger the safety of vessels and hinder commercial activities in the Gulf of Mexico and along the Eastern Seaboard.

Waltz stated, "NOAA’s proposed rule could seriously harm commercial activity for vessels operating around Florida’s coastline, jeopardize the safety of mariners, and cripple our state’s recreational boating and fishing industries."

The letter, co-signed by Congressman Comer, highlighted the concerns about the proposed 10-knot speed limit for water vessels within the designated critical habitats for the whales. The legislators emphasized the importance of considering the safety of mariners and the impact on economic activities before implementing such restrictions.

The lawmakers requested a staff-level briefing to ensure that the proposed habitat protections have adequately accounted for vessel and crew safety. They sought to address potential safety hazards that could arise from the proposed rules, particularly for watercraft not designed to operate within the specified speed limits.

The concerns raised by Congressman Waltz and Chairman Comer underscore the delicate balance between conservation efforts and economic activities in coastal regions. The legislators emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach that promotes both economic growth and wildlife protection.

The letter to NOAA Administrator Spinrad serves as a call to action to reevaluate the proposed rules to mitigate any unintended consequences on commercial vessels and supply chains while safeguarding the habitats of endangered whale species.