Senator Sefzik introduces ‘Blessing of the Fleet’ resolution

State senator Simon Sefzik (R-Ferndale) introduced a ‘Blessing of the Fleet’ resolution to honor the commercial fishermen who risk their lives every year in Alaska. The resolution, Senate Resolution 8642, passed the Senate February 9.

The resolution is named after the Blessing of the Fleet ceremony held in Blaine Harbor every May. Hosted by the Fisherman’s Memorial Committee, Whatcom County officials give speeches and the U.S. Coast Guard lays a wreath from the historic Plover ferry during the event. 

“The risks involved with fishing too often take the lives of the brave men and women who choose to work on the sea,” the resolution reads, in part. “The tragedy of losing our friends and neighbors on the high seas impacts not only the close community of fishing families, but also our entire state.”

Also co-sponsored the bill were state senators Liz Lovelett (D-40), Jeff Wilson (R-19), Bob Hasegawa (D-11), Jim McCune (R-02), Joe Nguyen (D-34), Emily Randall (D-26) and Rebecca Saldaña (D-37).