June 26, 2025 — Earlier this month, a bill from Sen. Nicole Grohoski, D-Ellsworth, became law without the Governor’s signature. According to a press release, in April, LD 1341, “Resolve, Directing the Department of Marine Resources to Evaluate How to Effectively Allow 2 Licensed Individuals to Fish for Lobsters or Scallops from a Single Vessel,” received a unanimous, bipartisan vote as amended in the Marine Resources Committee. In late May, both the Maine Senate and House voted unanimously in favor of it. LD 1341 directs the Department of Marine Resources to evaluate how two people holding licenses can fish for lobster and scallops on one boat without increasing the total harvest.
“We are hearing more and more from harvesters who are struggling with labor and economic constraints, and many captains are fishing alone under increasingly risky conditions,” said Sen. Grohoski, in the press release. “Allowing —but not requiring—two licensed captains to fish their individual gear from a single vessel could provide immediate relief without increasing overall harvest. This study will allow the Department to find a path forward that safeguards both our marine resources and the people who rely on them.”