House Joint Resolution 473 designates the third full week of September, beginning in 2025 and every year thereafter, as Commercial Waterman Safety Week in Virginia. The resolution is a ceremonial recognition measure rather than a regulatory bill, and it expresses the General Assembly’s support for the Commonwealth’s commercial watermen and the seafood industry.
The resolution highlights the economic and cultural importance of commercial fishing in Virginia, noting the industry’s statewide economic impact, the number of watermen working the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries, and the long history of the trade. It also emphasizes the need for safe working conditions, awareness of hazards faced by watermen, and respect for commercial fishing operations by recreational users of the waterways.
Impact
HJR473 does not change substantive state law or create new regulatory requirements. Its legal effect is limited to an official state observance: it establishes a recurring commemorative week, directs the Clerk of the House to transmit the resolution to the Virginia Watermen’s Association, and asks that the designation be posted on the General Assembly’s website. The measure primarily affects public recognition of commercial watermen, the seafood industry, and related coastal communities rather than imposing obligations on agencies, businesses, or individuals.
Sentiment
The bill appears to have broad, unanimous support. It passed the House 96-0, was reported from Rules 15-0, and the Senate waived reading 39-0, indicating no recorded opposition in the available voting history. The resolution’s tone is strongly supportive of commercial watermen, emphasizing their economic contribution, heritage, and safety concerns.
Contention
No notable substantive contention is reflected in the available record. The resolution frames commercial watermen as operating in an inherently dangerous occupation and references growing aggression toward the industry, but the bill itself does not propose enforcement measures or policy changes that would likely generate legislative conflict. Any underlying tension is between commercial fishing interests seeking safety and access protections and recreational users who are urged to respect commercial operations, but no opposing viewpoints appear in the votes or transcripts provided.
Requires MVC to verify certain information concerning commercial learner's permit and commercial driver license applicants and holders to ensure persons illegally in the State do not obtain or hold such permits and licenses.