Modification of the Gulf of Mexico Lane Snapper Catch Limits and Accountability Measures Framework to the Fishery Management Plan for Reef Fish Resources of the Gulf of Mexico

The action would increase the Gulf of Mexico (Gulf) lane snapper overfishing limit, acceptable biological catch, and annual catch limit consistent with the most recent stock assessment and recommendations from the Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council’s Science and Statistical Committee. The proposed rule would also modify the accountability measures to require a closure in any year in which the annual catch limit is met or projected to be met. The need for the rule is to update existing lane snapper catch limits and accountability measures based on the best scientific information available and to achieve optimum yield consistent with the requirements of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, while preventing overfishing.