July 22, 2026 — The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is announcing a new exemption that the Trump administration says will loosen environmental regulations on diesel engines for U.S. commercial lobstermen.
The EPA is exempting a new lobster boat model from Tier 4 engine requirements, which were adopted in 2008. It’s something the federal agency says will, for the first time, support American boat builders, lobstermen, and the New England maritime communities.
“The commercial fishing industry is an important part of New England’s heritage and economy, and we’re committed to practical implementation of environmental regulations. This decision demonstrates that in the Trump administration, environmental protection and economic opportunity can go hand in hand,” EPA Regional Administrator Mark Sanborn told the Herald over the phone.
“The exemption to the Tier 4 requirement allows both designers and law enforcement to utilize Tier 3 engines, which better meet their needs. The exhaust engine must meet Tier 3 emission standards and be labeled so it cannot be used on other vessels,” he said.