A bill that would provide $26 million in grants and low-interest loans to struggling North Coast salmon fishermen was blocked by the state Legislature on Tuesday.

Lawmakers' failure to take up the bill prompted an immediate response from Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's office, which supported the legislation by Sen. Wesley Chesbro, D-Arcata, and Sen. Sam Aanestad, R-Grass Valley.

”It is a great disappointment and mistake for the Legislature to block the passage of this important legislation that would have benefited salmon fishermen and the industry that was so hard hit by the restricted fishing season,” Schwarzenegger said.

The federal government closed the salmon season along much of the West Coast this year to protect an expected poor run of Klamath River fish. Recently, the U.S. commerce secretary proclaimed the fishery a disaster, which could pave the way for millions in federal relief. The state bill was seen as a support bill to show that California was willing to help bolster federal aid salmon fishermen are hoping for.

Salmon fishermen along the West Coast believe the industry has lost $81 million due to the closures.

Chesbro responded to a Schwarzenegger news release by saying the bill still has life.

”The session is not over yet,” said Chesbro. “The bill is not dead and I am disappointed that the governor has thrown in the towel.”