Two U.S. senators have introduced bipartisan legislation focused on reducing the occupational safety and health risks affecting the commercial fishing industry across the United States, including mental health risks.
The Fishing Industry Safety, Health, and Wellness Improvement Act aims to continue the work of the Commercial Fishing Occupational Safety Research & Training Program, in addition to increasing the authorized funding for the program and making research and training grants more accessible on both coasts, according to a Dec. 1 news release.
The FISH Wellness Act, which was introduced by Sens. Ed Markey, D-Mass., and Dan Sullivan, R-Alaska, will work to address a variety of mental health concerns related to the industry, including worker fatigue and substance use disorder.
"Every day, our fishermen are faced with demanding and dangerous working conditions that take both a physical and mental toll, all while they work to bring food to the tables of families across the country," Mr. Markey said in the release "The FISH Wellness Act will provide much needed funding to ensure that fishermen are getting the information and resources they need to stay safe and healthy on the job."