AUGUSTA (AP) — A panel of the Maine Legislature might vote on changes to the state’s lobster licensing rules that could have far-reaching implications for one of the state’s key industries.
Changes before the committee are designed to accelerate the process of getting new lobstermen off the license waiting list, which is nearly 300 names long. The Joint Standing Committee on Marine Resources will consider the changes on Wednesday.
The proposed changes come as the state is experiencing record-high annual catches. Values have also grown. Maine lobsters were worth a record of nearly $457 million at the docks in 2014.
Younger lobstermen say it can take a decade to get a license. But some veteran lobstermen and trade groups say they fear the impact of allowing too many new people into the fishery.
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