How are penalties for PFMC violations determined?

• A. Based on severity, history, and risk to the stock, including fines, permit actions, or vessel penalties
• B. Randomly assigned penalties
• C. Only warnings for first offenses
• D. Based solely on the violator’s company size

Answer: (A)

Penalties are set through a graduated, risk-informed approach. The seriousness of the violation, the violator’s past compliance history, and the potential or actual risk to the fish stock determine the consequences. The range of penalties can include civil fines, permit actions such as suspension or revocation, or penalties against vessels with operational restrictions. This scalable system aims to deter violations and protect the resource while reflecting the behavior and impact involved. Penalties aren’t random, aren’t limited to warnings for first offenses, and aren’t based on the violator’s company size.