Multi-state fishing group wants tougher laws

PORTLAND, Maine (AP) — Regional fishing associations are uniting in an attempt to strengthen the laws that govern fisheries in federal waters.

The groups describe themselves as "small boat commercial fishing groups" from around the country. They sent a letter to Congress this month calling for laws that strengthen requirements to reduce bycatch, require more comprehensive catch information and maintain rebuilding timelines for fish stocks.

The groups in the Fishing Community Coalition include the Alaska Marine Conservation Council; Alaska Longline Fishermen's Association; Cape Cod Commercial Fishermen's Alliance; the Maine Coast Fishermen's Association; and the Gulf of Mexico Reef Fish Shareholder's Alliance.