Hirono Statement on AP Story about Working Conditions in Hawaii’s Longline Fishing Fleet

Senator Mazie K. Hirono released the following statement in response to the Associated Press report on working conditions in Hawaii’s longline fishing fleet:

“I am deeply disturbed by the situation described in the Associated Press' report on conditions in Hawaii's longline fishing fleet. It is completely unacceptable that the inhumane treatment of any workers —foreign or not—is legal under U.S. federal law. I am engaging the full range of stakeholders, including federal agencies and the industry, to determine the extent of the problem and the appropriate course of action to address it. I welcome the industry’s initial steps to respond to this unacceptable situation, and am encouraged they are taking this seriously. I am committed to finding solutions that improve conditions for workers across the fleet and recognize the role industry can play in addressing this matter.”