ROCKPORT, Maine — Gov. Paul LePage wants to eliminate a tax on diesel fuel used by groundfishing boats to help level the playing field between Maine and Massachusetts, he told fishermen Friday.
The diesel fuel issue has long been a frustration for Maine's fishing fleet. Massachusetts does not impose a tax on fuel used by large groundfishing boats, while Maine has continued to do so. Massachusetts is also closer to the prime fishing grounds for cod and haddock.
Easing restrictions on processing plants is another way the state can help, LePage said. A change in laws governing the processing of lobster last year has allowed new products like Maine lobster "cocktail" claws sold in 750 Wal-Mart stores, the governor said.
Read the complete story by the AP at The Boston Globe.