Senate Majority Leader Vitelli files legislation to defend Maine’s lobster industry

The proposal could authorize the State of Maine to sue the federal government to overturn unfair federal regulations

AUGUSTA — On Wednesday, Senate Majority Leader Eloise Vitelli, D-Arrowsic, submitted legislation to defend Maine’s lobster industry and permit the state, at the behest of the Maine Legislature to file suit against the federal government to overturn harmful federal regulations. The omnibus proposal would include a number of key provisions, including additional state support for the industry amid ongoing legal challenges. The proposed legislation comes in the wake of the recent decision by Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Seafood Watch to “Red List” Maine lobster. 

“Maine’s lobstermen have, for generations, been steadfast stewards of our natural resources. They contribute to our state’s culture, character and fame, and they know better than just about anyone else that a healthy environment is inextricably tied to a healthy economy. That’s why it’s so aggravating to see this industry face baseless attacks from federal regulators and out-of-state organizations,” said Sen. Vitelli. “It’s vital for Maine leaders to stand up and make sure we’re doing all we can to protect our hardworking lobstermen. This bill makes our commitment loud and clear: We will fight for this heritage industry, come hell or high water. Everything is on the table.”

Last year, the Maine Legislature passed a joint order authorizing the Legislative Council to take legal action in support of Maine lobstermen impacted by the harmful federal regulations. The Legislative Council unanimously voted to sign on to a lawsuit filed in the United States District Court in Bangor, seeking emergency relief related to the impending closure of Lobster Management Area 1.

“It’s good to see leaders in Maine are paying attention to the voices of fishing families. I’m glad to see someone listening to those of us saying Maine needs a long-game approach to the massive threats our industry is facing. We know this battle is not going to be simple. It’s going to take Maine improving our ability to report on the science and data of what’s actually happening in Maine waters to prove our case. We need the state to take the strongest stance possible against the federal government,” said Douglas Carter, a lobsterman from Boothbay Harbor. 

“My family has deep roots in coastal Maine, and lobstering has provided us with the stability we need. But now, lobstermen across Maine are facing a dire situation. This is my livelihood, and I want it to be the future for my family. If lobstering families are going to be here for the long haul, we’re going to need state leaders to back us up all the way,” said Lawrence Pye, a lobsterman from Bath.

The proposal, tentatively titled “An Act to Defend Maine’s Lobster Industry and Protect the Industry’s Future,” will be taken up when the 131st Maine Legislature begins its work in December.