U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, has successfully advanced funding and language to support Maine's lobster industry in the Fiscal Year 2026 Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations bill. The bill was approved by the Senate Appropriations Committee and is now set for consideration by the full Senate and House.
"This funding would support Maine’s lobster industry by improving the incomplete and imprecise science and research upon which the federal government relies. The flawed data being used to inform regulations has created unnecessary, burdensome requirements for Maine lobstermen and women," said Senator Collins. "As the Chair of the Appropriations Committee, I will continue to advocate for this funding as the appropriations process moves forward."
The proposed funding includes $30 million for Right Whale related research through the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission, $80 million for the National Sea Grant Program with a focus on advancing Maine's coastal economies, $2 million for American lobster research via Maine Sea Grant, and directives for cooperative fisheries management in the Gray Zone.
Additionally, more than $73 million has been advanced for Congressionally Directed Spending projects in Maine through this bill. This includes $1 million aimed at expanding an American Lobster Settlement Index collector survey at the University of Maine.
This advancement marks a significant step forward as it allows further consideration of the bill by both chambers of Congress.
