NC wants beach driving rules loosened

NC congressman wants beach driving rules loosened

The Associated Press

Wednesday, January 28, 2009

RALEIGH, N.C. — A North Carolina congressman who tried to block strict new rules for driving on Outer Banks beaches last year is trying again.

Republican Rep. Walter Jones said Wednesday that small businesses on Hatteras and Ocracoke islands are being hit by the economic downturn, but also by federal rules that bar or restrict access to some beaches. The businesses heavily rely on beach fishermen.

Jones said he introduced a bill that would require the National Park Service to loosen the restrictions.
The park service adopted strict rules under a settlement with environmentalists to protect endangered birds and sea turtles while they nest. Vehicles and pedestrians are now barred from some fishing spots along Cape Hatteras National Seashore during spring and summer months.

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