NC S370

Opposes catch share fisheries management programs that allocate portions of total allowable catch to individuals or entities, effectively privatizing federal fishery resources in North Carolina and South Atlantic waters.

Cites evidence that catch share programs nationally caused consolidation of fishing fleets, resulting in approximately 18,000 job losses and 3,700 vessels ceasing operations, with 70% of affected southern New England fishermen reporting they were "worse/much worse off."

Notes that 97% of comments on the South Atlantic Fishery Management Council's snapper-grouper fishery management plan opposed catch shares, and that studies show catch share programs provide no biological benefit or enhanced sustainability.

Directs the Senate Principal Clerk to transmit copies of this resolution to the South Atlantic Fishery Management Council, NOAA Fisheries, and the North Carolina Marine Fisheries Commission.

Acknowledges saltwater fishing's economic importance to North Carolina, with 2014 commercial and recreational fishing generating $1.615 billion in sales and supporting approximately 19,227 jobs combined.