Bill > HP1329

This joint resolution expresses the Maine Legislature's strong opposition to the United States Coast Guard's proposed removal of navigational buoys along the Maine coast. The resolution highlights several key concerns, including the essential role of buoys in maritime navigation, particularly in areas with rocky coastlines, strong tides, and frequent fog. The Legislature argues that these buoys are critical for the safety of commercial fishermen, small boaters, kayakers, and recreational fishermen, many of whom cannot afford or rely solely on electronic navigation systems. The resolution notes that while the Coast Guard claims the removal is part of modernizing navigational aids and reducing vessel transit risks, the Legislature believes the proposal is shortsighted and potentially dangerous. Specifically, the resolution emphasizes that physical navigational aids are crucial in areas with hidden hazards, and removing them could put lives at risk, especially when electronic navigation tools are not always reliable or accessible to all maritime users.

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?paper=HP1329&snum=132