The Rhode Island Fishermen's Fairness Act of 2025 would add Rhode Island to the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council, a federal body that makes decisions about fishing regulations and management in the region. Currently, the council includes states from North Carolina to New York, but Rhode Island is excluded despite its significant fishing industry. The bill would increase the council's total voting members from 21 to 23 and its scientific committee from 13 to 14 members to accommodate Rhode Island's representation. This change would give Rhode Island fishermen a direct voice in federal decisions affecting their industry and fishing grounds. The bill was introduced by Senators Reed and Whitehouse and referred to the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.
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