U.S. Representative Mary Peltola (D-AK) has been awarded the Legislator of the Year Award by the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) for her support of the recreational boating and fishing industry. The award recognizes the congresswoman’s leadership in advocating for policies that support the boating industry, protect marine ecosystems and advance conservation efforts for all who rely on the oceans.

In 2023, Rep. Peltola introduced H.R. 4323, Protecting Whales, Human Safety and the Economy Act of 2023, saying at the time, “Like most of my colleagues, I am concerned about the long-term health of our marine mammal populations, including the North Atlantic Right Whale. This rule, however, has too many potential unintended consequences for small boat operators who need flexibility to maintain their safety at sea. Alaskans know that the ocean is unpredictable; limiting a vessel’s speed can have catastrophic consequences for human life and new regulations should not create additional hazards for our nation’s mariners.”

The Legislator of the Year Award is presented annually by NMMA to recognize lawmakers who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication to advancing the interests of the recreational boating industry.