SE Texas Times

Washington, D.C. - Today, U.S. Rep. Randy Weber (TX-14) has co-sponsored the Save Our Shrimpers Act of 2024, alongside U.S. Rep. Troy Nelhs (TX-22). The legislation aims to address the challenges faced by our nation's domestic shrimpers, who are struggling to compete against foreign shrimp flooding the U.S. markets.

Congressman Weber expressed concern over the impact of foreign competition on local shrimpers, stating, "We have watched for years as foreign countries have increasingly tried to run our shrimpers out of business." He emphasized the importance of ensuring that federal funds do not support activities that harm U.S. shrimpers.

Congressman Nehls highlighted the dire situation faced by shrimpers, noting, "Due to the global excess capacity and production of farm-raised shrimp and imports, the U.S. market is being overwhelmed and driving shrimp prices down to levels that many shrimpers cannot cover the cost of a single shrimp fishing trip." He stressed the need to explore all legislative options to support the struggling shrimping industry.

The bipartisan Save Our Shrimpers Act of 2024 seeks to prohibit federal funds from financing foreign shrimp farming, processing, or exports to the U.S. It also calls for an investigation by the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to ensure compliance with federal law aimed at protecting U.S. producers.

The legislation has garnered support from various organizations, including the Southern Shrimp Alliance, Texas Shrimp Association, and Louisiana Shrimp Association, among others. The collective effort aims to safeguard the livelihoods of local shrimpers and preserve the nation's shrimping industry.