Athens Reporter

U.S. Representative Mike Collins succeeded in passing an amendment that restricts the EPA's authority over watercraft speeds. The move, aimed at countering a proposed NOAA rule to limit speeds for larger watercraft, is believed by the Representative to be a big win for coastal industries.

According to a press release by the Representative's office, Collins stated: "I am very glad to see the House pass my amendment to prohibit the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from implementing—or enforcing—the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA’s) economically harmful and draconian rule to limit the speed of watercraft over 35 feet to ten knots. This is a big win for coastal industries," said Collins.

A press release by the Representative's office revealed that the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) believes that this measure aims to safeguard the North Atlantic Right Whale by diminishing the frequency of collisions with vessels. The rule proposed by NOAA is still pending finalization.

The American Sportfishing Association noted that the extensive coverage of the speed restriction would have impeded offshore fishing expeditions, severely limiting the time available for actual fishing upon arrival. "The rule would have lead to a detrimental impact on the saltwater recreational fishing industry," stated The American Sportfishing Association.

Additionally, The American Sportfishing Association pointed out that boat collisions with whales, particularly those covered under the NOAA proposal, are highly unlikely. "In the last decade, there have been only five documented instances of small vessels (less than 65 feet) striking right whales, despite over 5.1 million fishing trips in the same period. This would make the likelihood of such an occurrence less than one in a million." They further explained that NOAA's estimate of 9,000 affected recreational boats contradicts their calculations which suggest a figure closer to 63,000.

According to Ballotpedia, Mike Collins currently serves as representative for Georgia's 10th Congressional District, having taken office on Jan. 3, 2023. Collins has announced his candidacy for the upcoming Republican primary set for May 21, 2024.