Requires owners of certain large vessels to establish whale strike prevention policies

◆ The sponsor's argument

Why Pete Harckham says this is needed

Whales play, a critical role in maintaining healthy marine ecosystems, yet they face significant threats from vessel strikes, which are a lead- ing cause of injury and death for many whale species. According to NOAA, about 40% of humpback whales necropsied have died from either vessel strikes or fishing entanglements. Additionally, vessel strikes are known to disproportionately affect endangered species, including the North Atlantic Right Whale, of which fewer than 350 remain. The extent of the problem is underscored by recent alarming statistics. Between early December in 2023 and late February of 2024, 23 whales washed up dead, 12 in waters off New York or New Jersey. New York ranks among the top states for whale mortality caused by vessel strikes, high- lighting the urgent need for effective measures to protect marine mammals in the region. This bill is necessary to mitigate such risks by requiring vessels to adopt whale strike reduction policies. By integrat- ing marine mammal protection into existing boater safety, it raises awareness among vessel operators, and encourages behavioral changes, which prevent accidental harassment or injury to whales. Beyond ecological benefits, protecting whale populations can yield economic advantages'. Whale-watching tourism in Massachusetts provides significant economic benefits to the surrounding community, and as a growing industry in New York, it can do the same here and contribute significantly to local economies. Ensuring the safety of whale popu- lations will help sustain this important economic activity. Addi- tionally, preventing whale strikes can reduce the costly damage that vessel operators may incur when collisions occur, further emphasizing the economic rationale for this legislation.

This is the sponsor's own case for the bill, quoted from their memorandum. It is not Agora's description of what the bill does.