On Wednesday November 14, Congressman Chris Smith (R-NJ), joined Congressman Jon Runyan (R-NJ), Congressman Frank LoBiondo (R-NJ), and Congressman Bill Pascrell (D-NJ) in sending a letter to the Acting Secretary of Commerce, Rebecca Blank, supporting Governor Chris Christie’s request for disaster assistance for New Jersey fishermen. Hurricane Sandy did an untold amount of damage to the local fishing industry and infrastructure. 

    “I want to thank Governor Christie for everything he has done for the fishermen of Ocean County and the residents before, during, and after this disaster,” said Runyan. “The fishing communities throughout New Jersey, especially those in Ocean County, have endured a lot of damage and desperately need help from the federal government to ensure their recovery. These communities play a pivotal role in the economy of our state. Our fishing industry needs prompt federal assistance so they can begin to rebuild vital infrastructure.”

    “As the second largest commercial fishing port on the East Coast, the impact from Sandy on South Jersey’s fishermen and economy will be felt long-term as infrastructure must be repaired and fisheries rebuilt. I agree with Governor Christie’s assessment that resources available from the federal government are needed to ensure our fishing industry is fully operation as soon as possible,” said LoBiondo.

    "With much of the New Jersey coastline devastated by Sandy, a large portion of the commercial fishing industry was severally damaged and in need of immediate assistance," said Rep. Pascrell. "Many of the communities impacted by the destruction of this historic storm are dependent on a thriving fishing industry, so we must ensure we have necessary federal resources in place to rebuild this critical portion of the region's economy."

    “New Jersey has a long history of commercial fishing along our 130 mile shore line and the industry contributes significantly to the economy in the state and coastal communities,” said Congressman Smith.  “In addition to devastating homes and lives, Hurricane Sandy has caused tremendous damage to our fisheries and fishing community. I am hopeful that the administration will take the necessary actions to provide immediate disaster relief to those in need to ensure the industry has all available tools to get back on track.”

    The fishing industry in New Jersey employs more than 40,000 New Jerseyans and brings billions of dollars in revenue into the state, not just through the fishermen but all of the businesses associated with the industry.  In 2011 the fishing industry brought in approximately 175 million pounds of seafood generating more than $1 billion of revenue.  Without a thriving fishing industry many local communities will face even greater financial hardships, on top of their own recovery from the hurricane.