Bill > LD687

This bill proposes to assert the state of Maine's ownership and jurisdiction over ocean waters and marine resources extending farther than current federal limits, specifically claiming control over waters within the tidal range up to 12 nautical miles offshore and submerged lands and marine resource harvesting up to 24 nautical miles from the coastline. The bill would require the state's Attorney General to conduct a comprehensive legal study examining the potential state sovereignty and ownership rights over marine resources beyond the existing 12-nautical-mile territorial sea limit. While the bill is currently presented as a concept draft, which means it is in a preliminary stage of legislative development and lacks detailed implementing language, it represents an ambitious effort to expand the state's maritime territorial claims and potentially challenge existing federal maritime jurisdictional frameworks. The proposed expansion could have significant implications for marine resource management, fishing rights, environmental protection, and potential economic development within the state's extended maritime zone.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=687&snum=132