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Harris Applauds Approval of Aid for Maryland Fisheries

October 19, 2020

WASHINGTON, DC: Rep. Andy Harris, M.D. (MD-01) today applauded the approval of Maryland's spend plan for targeted monetary relief to members of the commercial fishing industry struggling due to COVID-19. In May, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) announced the allocation of more than $300 million in fisheries relief to states and federal territories via the CARES Act. Maryland was allocated over $4 million, and now that their spending plan has been approved, local businesses can begin applying for financial relief. Fishery participants eligible for funding include Tribes, commercial fishing businesses, charter/for-hire fishing businesses, qualified aquaculture operations, processors, and other fishery-related businesses.

Congressman Harris issued the following statement:

"I have advocated for the creation and funding of this program in Congress, and my office has been in regular contact with NOAA to ensure that these funds were allocated and Maryland's plan was approved as quickly as possible to provide the support so badly needed by the First District's crucial seafood industry. Our fishing families and local communities will benefit from this needed program. I thank Secretary Ross for his agency's effort in getting this done!"

Issues:Economy