16 U.S.C. § 4001 — Congressional findings

1. (1)the commercial fishing industry of the United States significantly contributes to the national economy, and could make a greater contribution if fish resources within the United States Exclusive Economic Zone were more fully utilized;
2. (2)the commercial fisheries of the United States provide significant employment in coastal areas and in processing and distribution centers;
3. (3)fish contribute an important nutritional component to the American diet;
4. (4)increased consumption of seafood in the United States could significantly lower the risk of many cardiovascular diseases;
5. (5)Federally supported development programs for commercial fisheries are unable to meet present and future marketing needs;
6. (6)many fish species are underutilized by the United States fishing industry because of underdeveloped markets; and
7. (7)the United States fishing industry has the potential to expand greatly its contribution to interstate and foreign commerce, favorably affecting the balance of trade.