Framework Amendment: Modifications to Mutton Snapper and Gag Management Measures Final Framework Action to the Fishery Management Plan for Reef Fish Resources of the Gulf of Mexico Including Environmental Assessment, Regulatory Impact Review, and Regulatory Flexibility Act Analysis

The purpose of this amendment is to modify the allowable harvest and management measures for the Gulf apportionment of mutton snapper as a result of the most recent mutton snapper stock assessment (SEDAR 15A Update, 2015) and to simplify management and increase compliance for anglers harvesting mutton snapper and gag in Florida. The need for this action is that the Gulf ACL for mutton snapper established in the Generic ACL/AM Amendment exceeds the Gulf apportionment of the stock ABC for 2017 and beyond as recommended by the SSC. This action also addresses a need to simplify management of commercially harvested gag. 2017 Award No. NA15NMF4410011 NMFS (National Marine Fisheries Service) SER (Southeast Region) NEPA (National Environmental Policy Act) Submitted https://doi.org/10.25923/sa05-g050 Public Domain 1861