Sen. Duson bill to continue developing Maine’s heritage ocean economy earns unanimous support in committee

Posted: May 07, 2025 | Housing and Economic Development, Senator Duson

On Thursday, May 1, 2025, a bill sponsored by Senate Assistant Majority Leader Jill C. Duson, D-Portland, received bipartisan support from the Legislature’s Housing and Economic Development Committee. LD 1023, “Resolve, to Reestablish and Continue the Work of the Blue Economy Task Force,” as amended in the majority report of the committee, would continue the work of the Blue Economy Task Force.

Sen. Jill Duson

“This bill is a win for our community, and for all of our water dependent communities statewide.” said Sen. Duson. “Our ocean is our largest heritage industry — as we endure repeated chaotic acts from the federal government that threaten our economic development, like the temporary rescinding of the Maine Sea Grant, we must continue developing a robust, future-ready economy at the state level. LD 1023 will help Maine remain competitive among other coastal New England states. I am grateful for the committee’s bipartisan support, a strong indicator that this issue transcends party lines.”

The Blue Economy Task Force defined the blue economy as “a sustainable and equitable ocean economy that optimizes innovation to expand economic opportunities in our coastal communities and to solve pressing societal needs. It is grounded in Maine’s unique marine heritage, research expertise and location.”

The task force is charged with identifying opportunities where the State can enhance or facilitate the growth and scaling of blue economy businesses (e.g., fisheries and aquaculture), including the creation of a design for a proposed Center for a Blue Economy. Their work would focus on turning the recommendations of the Blue Economy Task Force Report, developed by LD 1286 in the 131st Legislature, into actionable recommendations for a future legislature to implement into law.

LD 1023 now faces votes in the Senate and House chambers.

Sen. Duson represents Senate District 27, which includes part of Westbrook and part of Portland in the Maine Senate.