Senator Ken LaValle And Assemblyman Fred Thiele Pass Legislation To Create New York Seafood Marketing Task Force

The East Coast of the United States is known for its excellent seafood, and New York State is one of the several states that serves up fresh, locally caught seafood for markets and restaurants near and far. To highlight the area’s delicious fare, Senator Ken Lavalle and Assemblyman Fred Thiele have passed legislation to establish a seafood marketing task force to promote the marketing and sustainability of New York seafood.

“I am proud of the work Senator LaValle and I have done to push this legislation forward,” said Assemblyman Thiele, prime sponsor of the bill. “The creation of a seafood marketing task force will ultimately help increase demand for the product, stimulating the economy and creating jobs for our coastal communities. Massachusetts and Rhode Island have already established such measures with great success.”

The New York Seafood Marketing Task Force would support and collaborate with the State’s vast fishing community to promote the marketing and sustainability of New York seafood. The task force would provide the Governor and Legislature with a report of its progress and findings. These reports would address the research, marketing, and funding opportunities.

“The fishing industry is a significant part of the fabric of the East End. It is essential that we provide the proper assistance and tools to enable this community to thrive,” stated Senator LaValle. “The New York Seafood Marketing Task Force would promote jobs and stimulate activity for this important economic segment. It is my hope that the Governor will sign the legislation to create the Task Force immediately, so it can begin helping the fishing community right away.”

Currently, the bill is being passed on to Governor Cuomo for consideration.

“Commercial fishing remains a rich and vital part of our economy and our tradition on Long Island,” added Assemblyman Thiele. “It’s time we foster the industry, promote jobs, and take critical steps to put New York State on the side of our commercial fishermen.”