Recognizing that Fisheries and Aquaculture contribute significantly to the quality of life in California and play an important role in the identity and economy of this state, the Joint Committee on Fisheries and Aquaculture was formed in 1981. Core areas that the Committee is authorized and directed to ascertain, study, and analyze include:
- Issues facing the fishing and aquaculture industries;
- Encouragement of seafood production, gainful seafood industry employment, and a healthy coastal economy;
- Conservation, restoration, and enhancement of fishery resources;
- Protection of California seafood consumers;
- Collection of valid and reliable data on the fishing and aquaculture industries;
- Resolution of conflicts concerning the fishing and aquaculture industries; and
- Oversight of executive branch activities concerning the fishing and aquaculture industries.
This Committee has made numerous legislative fisheries and aquaculture recommendations resulting in enactment of many laws but does not have any law enforcement powers.