Congressman Don Davis Visits Grady-White Boats to Discuss NOAA Rule Impact

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Don Davis (NC-01) visited Grady-White Boats, a significant contributor to the boating industry. He discussed the impacts of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) proposed North Atlantic Right Whale Vessel Speed Rule on boating businesses and the broader economic landscape of eastern North Carolina’s coastal communities.

“It was amazing to experience Grady-White's incredible craftsmanship at their manufacturing facility in Greenville,” said Congressman Don Davis. “We must keep supporting our thriving boating industry in eastern North Carolina.”

“We are so grateful to have Congressman Davis support American manufacturing and working families that are the backbone of the U.S. recreational boating industry,” said Kris Carroll, President of Grady-White Boats. “It was an absolute delight to host the Congressman at our factory: it was an amazing visit! He was warm, authentic and genuinely enjoyed meeting our team, and we really enjoyed getting to know him better. We had the opportunity to show him how our team is committed to delivering an ultimate boating experience to our customers, while being equally committed to learning how to live our best lives at work and at home. He truly understands the importance of what we do at Grady-White and the powerful impact the entire recreational boating industry has on our nation.”

Legislative Background: 

• On July 9, 2024, Congressman Davis cosponsored H.R. 8704, bipartisan legislation to delay funding for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s proposed speed restrictions for boats 35’ to 65’ until the Department of Commerce can fully implement new monitoring systems for North American Right Whales.

• On April 17, 2024, Congressman Davis and delegation colleagues met with officials from NOAA and OMB to discuss the proposed North Atlantic Right Whale Vessel Speed Rule.

• On March 14, 2024, Congressman Davis joined a letter expressing significant concern to Dr. Richard Spinrad, NOAA Administrator, and Shalanda Young, OMB Director, regarding the North Atlantic Right Whale Vessel Speed Rule. 

Photos from the facility visited are available at this link.