NOAA Fisheries Service has proposed regulations to implement measures in Framework 40B to the Northeast Multispecies Fishery Management Plan (FMP). Framework 40B was developed by the New England Fishery Management Council to modify existing effort control programs implemented under Amendment 13 to the FMP. The action would create additional opportunities for commercial fishing vessels to target healthy groundfish stocks. In addition, this action includes measures that would increase the information available to assess groundfish bycatch in the herring fishery.

Public comments must be received on or before April 18, 2005. You may submit comments by e-mail to: FW40B@NOAA.gov. Include in the subject line: "Comments on the Proposed Rule for Groundfish Framework 40B."