Maine Delegation, Governor Mills Renew Call for Biden Administration to Extend Lobster Gear Deadline

The Maine delegation, led by Senators Susan Collins and Angus King and Congresswoman Chellie Pingree, along with Governor Janet Mills, is calling on the Biden administration to extend the deadline for new lobster gear regulations that could harm Maine’s lobster industry. The delegation and the governor have renewed their call for an extension in a letter to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

H2: The Issue at Hand

Maine’s lobster industry is a critical part of the state’s economy, supporting thousands of jobs and generating millions in revenue. However, the industry is facing new regulations that require lobstermen to reduce the number of vertical lines they use to fish, in an effort to protect endangered right whales. While the goal of the regulations is admirable, the impact on Maine’s lobster industry could be devastating.

H3: The Call for an Extension

The Maine delegation and Governor Mills are calling on the Biden administration to extend the deadline for the new regulations, citing the economic impact on the state. In their letter to NOAA, they highlight the need for a balanced approach that protects both the right whales and the lobster industry.

The delegation and the governor are not alone in their call for an extension. Lobstermen, industry leaders, and even some environmental groups have expressed concerns about the new regulations and the potential impact on Maine’s lobster industry. Many argue that there needs to be a more comprehensive approach to protecting right whales, including efforts to reduce ship strikes and other threats to the whales.

The Maine delegation and Governor Mills have been advocating for an extension for some time, and they hope that the Biden administration will listen to their concerns. They recognize the importance of protecting endangered species like right whales, but they also understand the vital role that Maine’s lobster industry plays in the state’s economy.

In Conclusion

The Maine delegation, led by Senators Susan Collins and Angus King and Congresswoman Chellie Pingree, along with Governor Janet Mills, are calling on the Biden administration to extend the deadline for new lobster gear regulations that could harm Maine’s lobster industry. The delegation and the governor have renewed their call for an extension in a letter to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The Maine lobster industry is a critical part of the state’s economy, supporting thousands of jobs and generating millions in revenue. The new regulations require lobstermen to reduce the number of vertical lines they use to fish, in an effort to protect endangered right whales. While the goal of the regulations is admirable, the impact on Maine’s lobster industry could be devastating. The Maine delegation and Governor Mills are calling for a balanced approach that protects both the right whales and the lobster industry, and they hope that the Biden administration will listen to their concerns.