Removal of LongLine/Trawling Gear from the Gulf of Mexico

PETITION TO REMOVE LONG LINE & TRAWLERS FROM
THE GULF OF MEXICO
The undersigned on this petition hereby state in support that:
In as the Gulf of Mexico has been declared a special environmental habitat, we request the US House of Representatives and/or the US Senate sponsor and pass a bill that declare that the Gulf of Mexico is a special ecological area with unique habitat and characteristics. When indiscriminate untended commercial fishing gear is allowed to operate within its boundaries, the Magnusson/Stevens Acts mandate of sustainable fishery can not be met.
The destruction of habitat and excessive by-catch associated with long line and trawling gear is incompatible with the Gulf of Mexicos unique habitat. We respectfully request that the use of any gear not fully tended by an angler or crew, to include the use of long line and trawling gear be banned from the waters of the Gulf of Mexico