SAVANNAH, Ga. — In what could signal a significant leap forward for the local shrimping industry, a key piece of legislation advanced in the legislative process on Wednesday. The bill, known as H.R. 2071 or the Save Our Shrimpers Act, aims to fortify domestic shrimpers against international competition.
With an overwhelming majority, the House passed the bill by a vote of 391-18. The legislation seeks to diminish international rivalry by compelling U.S. representatives at global financial entities, such as the World Bank and International Monetary Fund, to oppose providing financial aid for foreign shrimp farming, processing, and exporting operations.
Proponents argue that the bill marks a pivotal move towards prioritizing American shrimpers and safeguarding their interests in the global market. Among the early champions of this initiative were Lowcountry Congresswoman Nancy Mace (R-SC-01) and Coastal Empire Representative Buddy Carter (R-GA-01), who both played instrumental roles as cosponsors.
Supporters said the bill is a step towards putting American shrimpers first.
Lowcountry Congresswoman Nancy Mace (R-SC-01) was an early cosponsor, alongside Coastal Empire Rep. Buddy Carter (R-GA-01).
“South Carolina’s shrimping industry is part of our identity, our heritage, and our economy,” said Congresswoman Mace. “For too long, our shrimpers have been undercut by foreign competitors bankrolled with American tax dollars. The Save Our Shrimpers Act puts an end to it. This is about a level playing field. It is about making sure American tax dollars work for American shrimpers and not against them. We will always go to bat for the hardworking men and women of South Carolina’s coast.”
Georgia and South Carolina have recently pushed for more protections for their shrimpers on the state level. Georgia lawmakers passed House Bill 117, sending it to Gov. Brian Kemp’s desk in early February while Palmetto legislators work on moving their own shrimp bill through the system.
The Save Our Shrimpers Act was received in the Senate Wednesday and referred to the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations.