Comment Log Display

I understand that the strengthening of air quality requirements for
sport fishing boats will substantially increase the cost of
procuring and operating these vessels.  This cost must be passed on
to the paying customers. I am a frequent fisherman on these boats
and, while I might be able to afford a cost increase, many will
not. Sport fishing boats are the only places I know where people of
all nationalities, ethnicities, and social economic status freely
mingle and help each other, a sort of racial and economic level
playing field.  For many, this is their primary entertainment and
an important food source. 

I am a firm believer in working to enhance air quality.  It seems
hard to believe that the few sport fishing boats operating in
California waters, most or all of which have already been repowered
to reduce emissions in the past few years, would have a significant
impact on air quality if they moved to the proposed tier. 

Please carefully consider the economic impact of this decision on
the diverse people who take part in recreational sport fishing
using commercial boats.  This activity should be encouraged, not
limited by unnecessary cost.