The bill that would ban the practice of bottom trawling in Palau's territorial waters and exclusive economic zone has been passed by the House of Delegates.
The Marianas Variety reports that the Bill, authored by Senator Yukiwo Dengokl, now returns to the Senate which has to review the House amendments.
The bill states that any person or business entity who engages in or assists in bottom trawling, or who allows their vessel or equipment to be used for bottom trawling will lose their vessel or equipment ot the government.
The proposed law imposes a penalty of 10 years in jail and/or a maximum fine of half a million US dollars.
