Washington, DC – U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse released the following statement today regarding National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Administrator Jane Lubchenco’s visit to Rhode Island to sign the state’s Ocean Special Area Management Plan (SAMP):
“In Rhode Island, our oceans are critical for commerce and trade, tourism, and our fishing industry. Today’s action by Dr. Lubchenco and Governor Chafee to sign the SAMP into Rhode Island’s coastal zone management plan is a critical step toward preserving ocean resources and a recognition of Rhode Island’s leadership in addressing challenges associated with conflicting ocean uses. I thank Dr. Lubchenco for her visit today, and congratulate all of the Rhode Islanders – especially those at CRMC, RI Sea Grant, and the URI Coastal Resources Center – who have worked so hard over the years to make this happen.”
Whitehouse was unable to attend today’s meeting as a result of a vote this morning in the U.S. Senate.
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