AUGUSTA — The Maine Senate enacted Wednesday a bill from Senator Dave Miramant, D-Camden assisting the lobstering industry. 

The bill, LD 338, “An Act To Amend the Law Governing the Maine Lobster Marketing Collaborative,” would extend funding for the Maine Lobster Marketing Collaborative so they can more freely advocate for the lobstering industry.

LD 338 extends funding for the Maine Lobster Marketing Collaborative, which was due to end this year, and makes license surcharges ongoing at their current level.

“Lobstering is a cornerstone of both our heritage as well as our tourist economy here in Maine,” said Sen. Miramant. “This bill eases some restrictions for the Maine Lobster Marketing Collaborative as they work to advertise our lobster and increase demand for Maine lobster. We should be doing all we can to maintain this storied industry of our state and our economy. I’m grateful that my colleagues voted to enact this bill.”

The bill is supported unanimously by the boards of the Maine Lobstermen’s Association and the Lobster Advisory Council.

The bill now goes to Gov. Janet Mills for her to sign into law, veto or allow to become law without her signature.