The Massachusetts Lobstermen’s Association Inc. is seeking to recoup approximately $66,000 in attorney’s fees after successfully challenging a rule implemented by the National Marine Fisheries Service. This rule change had temporarily closed certain fishing grounds, greatly impacting the lobstermen’s ability to do their jobs.
Having filed its suit in February, the Lobstermen’s Association took issue with the agency’s move to amend its Atlantic Large Whale Take Reduction Plan – a measure in place to protect North Atlantic right whales by preventing entanglement in fishing gear. The decision expanded the parameters of the seasonal Massachusetts restricted area to include the wedge between state and federal waters – an important area for local fisheries.
The Association argued that the group fits eligibility criteria for the award of legal fees, based on a federal law which states a prejudicing party receives the award in civil action. This motion signifies the Association’s intent to recover their incurred expenses due to what they perceive as unjust action.
More detailed updates on this development are required to follow, along with the conclusions of Judge William G. Young of the US District Court for the District of Massachusetts on this matter.
Original article can be found here.