Faraway Washington Bureaucrats Should Not Ignore Data to Pass Rules that Crush Shrimpers for Minimal Environmental Benefit
The Story
Acy Cooper has been a shrimper for over 45 years, carrying on a legacy steeped in family tradition. From the age of 15, Acy has been immersed in the waters of Plaquemines Parish, devoting his life to the shrimping vocation that provides both a passion and a means to live. Now, Acy is not only working to deliver the finest Gulf shrimp to dining tables but also striving to protect the essence of Louisiana’s shrimping heritage.
The introduction of the National Marine Fisheries Service’s (NMFS) rule, which expands the use of Turtle Excluder Devices (TEDs) on certain skimmer trawl vessels that operate inshore, presents a significant threat to Acy’s community. Though the rule aims to protect marine life, Acy, leading the Louisiana Shrimp Association, argues that it fails to recognize the unique conditions of the Louisiana shrimping industry. The Association is actively challenging the regulation at a time when the Supreme Court has re-assessed agency power in the Loper Bright case.
The shrimping community does not oppose environmental conservation; rather, they challenge the NMFS’s failure to consider the costs and benefits of the rule. Evidence suggests minimal or no interaction between sea turtles and shrimpers in inshore areas, a point overlooked by the NMFS. The financial strain of implementing TEDs for limited environmental benefit, coupled with the potential revenue loss in the many millions could prove crippling to an industry that is already struggling with an influx of foreign shrimp imports and increased fuel prices.
The lawsuit embodies a battle for the rights, traditions, and economic stability of the Louisiana shrimping community. As the Supreme Court examines the extent of bureaucratic authority, Acy’s battle is a plea for recognition and support of the shrimping heritage and the families it sustains. The shrimpers’ stand is a testament to their resolve to maintain their heritage, advocate for fair governance, and uphold a way of life integral to Louisiana’s identity.
The Latest
On July 21, 2025, the Pelican Institute filed a Notice of Appeal to the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, challenging the District Court’s ruling and continuing the fight for Louisiana’s shrimping industry.
The Timeline
Complaint. On January 17, 2024, the Pelican Institute filed a Complaint on behalf of Acy and the Louisiana Shrimp Association challenging the rule.
Motion for Summary Judgment. On August 1, 2024, the Pelican Institute filed a Motion for Summary Judgment asking the court to rule on behalf of Louisiana shrimpers.
Government’s Cross-Motion for Summary Judgment. On September 5, 2024, the federal defendants filed their cross-motion for summary judgment and response opposing Plaintiffs’ motion.
Environmental Groups’ Amicus Brief. On September 12, 2024, the Center for Biological Diversity, Defenders of Wildlife, and Turtle Island Restoration Network filed an amicus brief supporting the federal defendants.
Plaintiffs’ Opposition Brief. On September 23, 2024, the Pelican Institute filed an opposition to the government’s cross-motion for summary judgment.
Government’s Reply Brief. On October 3, 2024, the federal defendants filed their reply brief in support of their motion for summary judgment.
Ruling. On June 27, 2025, the District Court denied Plaintiffs’ motion for summary judgment, granted the government’s motion, and dismissed all claims with prejudice, ruling that NMFS properly required turtle excluder devices in Louisiana’s inshore waters.
Notice of Appeal Filed. On July 21, 2025, the Pelican Institute filed a Notice of Appeal to the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, challenging the District Court’s ruling and continuing the fight for Louisiana’s shrimping industry.
For Media Inquiries
