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As a result of CAA support, Assembly Bill 226, authored by Speaker Toni G. Atkins, has been signed into law. This bill establishes authority for, and the parameters of, statewide and uniform Fishermen’s Markets. Read below a letter from CAA Legislative Advocate, Rob Ross to Speaker Atkins:

Madam Speaker:

Your bill will propel the fishermen and fish farmers and the consumer and the industry as a whole.

A rising tide lifts all boats and AB 226 will help many.

The other winner is the California consumer, the kids that will be educated, the adults that will be reminded of how great seafood is for their health. How fun and enjoyable to cook and eat!  Rare in California does the legislature produce a bill that is a win-win-win-win…

Read below an article about AB 226 from the San Diego Community News Group – Pacific to Plate allows public seafood markets:

Seafood markets will be allowed to operate in the public square just like farmers markets, now that Gov. Jerry Brown has signed Assembly Speaker Toni G. Atkins’ Pacific to Plate Act. AB 226 removes red tape, making it easier for shoppers to purchase local seafood.

“The massive growth of farmers markets across the state shows us the benefits of allowing direct sales between farmers and consumers,” said Atkins (D-San Diego). “Coastal communities and small-business owners throughout California deserve the same opportunities.”

Pacific to Plate streamlines the permitting process so that commercial fishermen can organize under a single permit—just like certified farmers markets—allowing public seafood markets to operate as food facilities and fresh fish to be cleaned for direct sale.

“By making it easier to establish and open these markets, we hope to create more jobs for local fishermen and give San Diegans more fish caught fresh off our waters,” said County Supervisor Greg Cox. “My thanks to Speaker Toni Atkins and our local fishermen for working together to make this law happen.”

Pacific to Plate also establishes guidelines such as compliance with the California Retail Food Code and food-safety requirements.