The Rhode Island Freedom to Fish and Marine Conservation Act became law in July. Governor Donald L. Carcieri signed the act, which establishes important standards that must be met before “no-fishing” marine protected areas are designated in state waters. The Recreational Fishing Alliance (RFA) teamed up with the Rhode Island Saltwater Anglers Association and the Rhode Island Marine Trades Association to garner support for the law throughout the Ocean State. A coalition of environmental groups, including the Ocean Conservancy, the Conservation Law Foundation and the Sierra Club opposed the initial bill, but agreed with the amended language of the final version.
