President Donald Trump issued an executive proclamation earlier this month allowing commercial fishing in parts of three national marine monuments across the Pacific Ocean. The move affects roughly half a million square miles in areas including Hawai‘i, American Samoa, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.
The proclamation covers the Mau and Ho‘omalu Zones of the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument, the Rose Atoll Marine National Monument, and the Islands Unit of the Mariana Trench Marine National Monument. These zones contain thousands of plant and animal species in ecologically sensitive habitats.
Trump described the change as a boost for U.S. fishermen, saying during the Oval Office signing that it would generate millions of dollars in new business and lower seafood costs. The White House posted on Facebook that the policy represented a massive win for America’s fishermen.
Supporters including Congresswoman Kimberlyn King-Hinds and fishing groups such as the Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council welcomed the decision, citing potential jobs and the long-term viability of fleets. Critics including Native Hawaiian advocate Kekuewa Kikiloi and scientist Camilo Mora warned of threats to Indigenous rights and marine ecosystems.
Earthjustice attorney David Henkin said the group plans to challenge the action in court over questions about presidential authority under the Antiquities Act.
