(TRENTON) – Assemblyman Eric Houghtaling (D-Monmouth), chair of the Assembly Agriculture Committee and Legislative appointee for the Atlantic States Marines Fisheries Commission, released the following statement on the recently announced $11.2 million in CARES Act funding for commercial and recreational fishing businesses impacted by COVID-19:
“Fishing is a vital part of the Garden State’s robust agriculture economy, but this year hasn’t been easy. Fishing business owners have suffered significant financial losses due to the COVID-19 pandemic and some are struggling to stay afloat.
“We must support local fishermen, seafood suppliers, bait and tackle shops and other fishing businesses through these difficult times. This infusion of relief will undoubtedly come as welcome news to the fishing community, and will help ensure the future vitality of businesses through our recovery from COVID-19. The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection and other agencies are working diligently to ensure the funds will be distributed as quickly as possible once they become available.”