SENATOR HASKELL’S LOON PROTECTION BILL APPROVED BY THE LEGISLATURE

Posted: June 14, 2013 | Front Page, Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, News Items, Senator Haskell

SENATOR HASKELL’S LOON PROTECTION BILL APPROVED BY THE LEGISLATURE

Measure severely limits the use of lead in fishing gear

 AUGUSTA – Today the Senate enacted a measure to protect loons and other wildlife from lead poisoning.

“Loons are a Maine treasure; we love to hear them calling at night on our lakes and ponds,” Senator Anne Haskell, said of Portland, the sponsor of the bill.  “I am pleased to have played a small part in saving them.”

The bill calls for a phased-in ban on the use of lead in all sinkers, and all bare lead in lures.  Lures with covered lead will still be allowed.  The ban on the sale of lead sinkers and lures begins on September 1, 2016, and the ban on their use begins on September 1, 2017.

Lead poisoning from lead sinkers and lead-containing lures is the leading cause of death for adult loons in Maine.

“I appreciate the strong support of my colleagues in making the water safer for loons and people,” Senator Haskell added.

The bill, LD 730, “An Act To Protect Maine’s Loons by Banning Lead Sinkers and Jigs,” will now be sent to the governor.