During this time of COVID-19 and Social distancing mandates, there are slight changes to the EM Observer Program. Everyone still needs to log in, and EM boats will still turn on their systems. Boats picked for observers need to call the observer program to request a waiver- NOAA has NOT authorized a waiver for the entire fishery. They will issue waivers for each trip. You are still required to login or call ODDS to see if you are selected for an observer. If you are selected, AIS will request a waiver for you. If you go fishing without contacting ODDS, you may be in violation of the current rules.