Stratford Legislators Applaud New CT Law Protecting Horseshoe Crabs

Stratford Legislators Applaud New Law
Protecting Horseshoe Crabs

Connecticut Senate Republican Leader Kevin Kelly, Rep. Ben McGorty and Rep. Laura Dancho applauded the ceremonial signing of legislation in Stratford on Aug. 9 that implements a ban on the harvesting of horseshoe crabs from Connecticut waters.

Sen. Kelly said, “This bipartisan legislation is a positive step towards protecting valuable marine life on the Connecticut shoreline. The population of horseshoe crabs in Long Island Sound has plummeted in recent years and we want to do all we can to preserve this ancient species. We will continue to work together to protect our shoreline and to be strong environmental stewards for the region.”

Rep. McGorty said, “I am incredibly proud of our Stratford delegation for the work that was done to protect and preserve the lives and natural habitats of horseshoe crabs, many of whom reside right here in Stratford and across our beautiful shoreline. Thank you to my colleagues in the legislature, especially members of the Environment Committee, for bringing this issue to the forefront and educating lawmakers and the public to how these horseshoe crabs impact our local ecosystems.”

Rep. Dancho said, “As an avid beachgoer and competitive sailor, I know how important it is to enjoy our shore’s resources without negatively impacting our wildlife. Seeing this legislation signed today made me truly grateful to serve Stratford on the Environment Committee and made me proud to work alongside friends and neighbors on local environmental councils. The bipartisan support for this bill proves that you don’t have to live on the shoreline to protect it and I am hopeful for more future proposals that continue to put our wildlife and their ecosystems first.”

The law, which takes effect Oct. 1, enables the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection to issue permits authorizing the limited harvesting of horseshoe crabs only for scientific and educational purposes if it is determined that doing so will not harm the overall horseshoe crab population.

The lawmakers also thanked Rep. Joe Gresko, who spearheaded the legislation, Gov. Ned Lamont for signing the bill in Stratford, Mayor Laura Hoydick and area residents for attending the ceremony.

Attached photo:

State and local officials attended the Aug. 9 bill signing ceremony in Stratford.

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