Pasco Reporter

Representatives Gus Bilirakis, Troy E. Nehls, Clay Higgins, Gonzalez, Garret Graves, Mike Ezell, Nancy Mace, Byron Donalds, Randy Weber, Brian Babin, Russell Fry, Anna Paulina Luna, Julia Letlow, and Barry Moore have introduced the bipartisan Save our Shrimpers Act of 2024 aimed at protecting the nation's domestic shrimping industry from foreign competition and unfair practices. The legislation seeks to prohibit federal funds from being used to finance any activity related to shrimp farming, processing, or export to the United States, by International Financial Institutions.

Congressman Bilirakis emphasized the importance of the initiative, stating, "This America-First initiative would ensure US tax dollars are not used to subsidize foreign competitors within the shrimping industry." He highlighted the impact on shrimpers in Florida's 12th Congressional District and stressed the need to protect local shrimpers from being disadvantaged by current policies.

Congressman Nehls, speaking on behalf of shrimpers in Texas, expressed concerns over the overwhelming global production of shrimp and its effects on local shrimpers. He stated, "In order to save our nation’s shrimping industry, we must exhaust every legislative option on the table."

Congressman Donalds shared the challenges faced by shrimpers in Southwest Florida, particularly in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian and the oversaturation of the market with foreign products. He underscored the need to prioritize American taxpayers and protect the local seafood industry.

Congresswoman Luna emphasized the detrimental impact of foreign-funded shrimping operations on the U.S. economy and the importance of ending this practice. She stated, "Our shrimpers deserve a fighting chance, and it’s time our government stops working against them."

The bipartisan Save Our Shrimpers Act of 2024 not only aims to protect domestic shrimping industry from unfair competition but also seeks to hold International Financial Institutions accountable for complying with federal laws related to supporting U.S. producers. The legislation triggers an investigation within the United States Government Accountability Office to monitor compliance and requires annual reports to Congress on the matter.