Bill
SD 1415
Overview: Bill Number: SD 1415, Title: An Act relative to lobstering closure mitigation, Status: Referred to the committee on Agriculture, Introduced: February 27, 2025, Classifica
Overview: Bill Number: SD 1415, Title: An Act relative to lobstering closure mitigation, Status: Referred to the committee on Agriculture, Introduced: February 27, 2025, Classification: proposed bill
Purpose and Intent: This bill aims to provide financial assistance and support to commercial lobstermen affected by temporary or permanent lobstering closures in state waters. The goal is to help mitigate the economic impacts on lobstermen and their communities during periods of reduced fishing activity.
Key Provisions:
- Establishes a Lobstering Closure Mitigation Fund to provide direct financial assistance to eligible commercial lobstermen
- Authorizes the state's Department of Marine Fisheries to administer the fund and determine eligibility criteria
- Allows for the fund to be used for income replacement, gear replacement, and business transition assistance
- Requires the department to develop a plan for distributing funds and providing other support services to affected lobstermen
Affected Parties and Impacts:
- Commercial lobstermen who experience income losses due to temporary or permanent lobstering closures
- Coastal communities and businesses that rely on the lobster industry, which will benefit from the economic stabilization provided by the mitigation fund
- The state's marine ecosystems, which may see improved conservation outcomes from the closures that necessitate the mitigation efforts
Procedural and Timeline Considerations:
The bill has been referred to the committee on Agriculture for review and consideration. If passed by the legislature and signed into law, the Department of Marine Fisheries will have 120 days to establish the Lobstering Closure Mitigation Fund and begin accepting applications from affected lobstermen.
Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.
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