Bill > LD1596

This bill directs the Department of Marine Resources (DMR) to submit a comprehensive report to the Joint Standing Committee on Marine Resources by January 1, 2026, which will outline the findings and recommendations of the Aquaculture Advisory Council and its subcommittees. The report will specifically focus on the council's discussions and potential proposed changes to the aquaculture leasing process, which is the method by which businesses or individuals obtain legal permissions to farm marine organisms like fish or shellfish in designated coastal areas. Additionally, the bill requires the DMR to share this report's information with industry members, and it provides the legislative committee the option to introduce a new bill based on the report's recommendations during the Second Regular Session of the 132nd Legislature. The purpose appears to be to systematically review and potentially improve the current aquaculture regulatory framework through a structured, collaborative approach involving government agencies and industry stakeholders.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=1596&snum=132