At a recent hearing in Washington, D.C., Senator Susan Collins addressed Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick regarding regulations affecting Maine's lobster industry and Canadian tariffs. The session was part of the review for the Fiscal Year 2026 budget request for the U.S. Department of Commerce.
Senator Collins highlighted past regulatory challenges faced by Maine's lobster industry, which she described as crucial to the state's economy. "Maine's lobster industry, as you know, is so important to the economy of Maine… It's really an iconic industry for us," said Collins. She referenced previous efforts by the Biden Administration that threatened the industry's viability and praised a court ruling that sided with the Maine Lobstermen's Association against such regulations.
In response, Secretary Lutnick emphasized the administration's commitment to protecting the industry through evidence-based scientific methodologies. "This administration views the Maine lobster industry as an American treasure, and we need to protect it," he stated.
The discussion also covered Canadian tariffs, with Senator Collins expressing concern over their impact on integrated economic activities between Maine and Canada. She noted various products processed in Canada before returning to Maine and cited examples like electricity and petroleum imports from Canada.
Secretary Lutnick explained that under USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), certain products are exempt from tariffs if they are made in either country. He mentioned existing fentanyl-related tariffs due to border security concerns but did not provide specific details about individual product exemptions.
Collins requested further clarification on products under USMCA to better understand tariff implications: "If you would provide us with a list of which products are under USMCA that would be very helpful."
In related actions, Senator Collins has supported legislative measures aimed at revising trade policies with Canada and reinforcing Congress' role in trade policy decisions.
