PCFFA opposed AB1056 after more than a year of engagement, working to protect California’s fisheries management process from being circumvented by activist NGO groups.We submitted multiple letters, met with legislators and agency staff, and testified in Sacramento to ensure the fleet’s voice was heard. The bill attempted to override a two-year public process already completed by the Fish and Game Commission, where fishermen, scientists, and regulators had developed new set gill net rules through open collaboration.

While the bill ultimately passed, PCFFA’s sustained advocacy helped defend the integrity of science-based fisheries management and strengthen relationships that will shape future policy decisions.

SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS

Initial Opposition Letter (March 2025)
Opposition Letter (May 2025)
Oppose Unless Amended Letter (July 2025)
Veto Request Letter (September 2025)
Fishermen’s Contributions Summary (PDF)
History of Fish and Game Commission Review (PDF)

PCFFA supported reauthorizing the AB 5 exemption that protects the independence of California’s commercial fishing fleet. We submitted letters throughout 2025 urging lawmakers to extend the exemption and preserve the crew-share system that has governed the industry for more than a century.

This structure recognizes fishermen as independent harvesters under federal maritime law providing strong worker protections. Without the exemption, state labor rules designed for land-based workforces would have created legal and operational chaos for fishing businesses.

PCFFA’s advocacy helped secure inclusion of the exemption in AB 1514, which passed unanimously and was signed by the Governor in September 2025.

SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS

March 2025 Letter – Support for AB 5 Exemption Extension (PDF)
June 2025 Letter – Support for AB 1514 Amendment (PDF)
September 2025 Letter – Signature Request to Governor Newsom (PDF)