CHAPTER 139

H.P. 1455 - L.D. 1955

Resolve, Directing the Commissioner of Marine Resources To

Review the Licensing Requirements for the Harvest of Certain

Marine Resources

Preamble. Whereas, the Legislature finds that state laws pertaining to marine resources, including but not limited to the commercial utilization of lobster, scallop, sea urchins, finfish, marine worms and shellfish, were duly enacted and are constitutionally valid; and

Whereas, it is essential for the long-term viability and health of Maine's marine resources that all of Maine's marine resources- related laws continue to be vigorously enforced; and

Whereas, state laws pertaining to marine resources must function in accordance with numerous federal laws and within the framework established by the United States Constitution and the Constitution of Maine to provide legal stability for the long- term management of these resources; and

Whereas, the periodic review of Maine's marine resources- related laws is necessary to improve the operation and effectiveness of those laws; and

Whereas, the Department of Marine Resources is uniquely situated to identify opportunities that will ensure the long-term conservation of Maine's outstanding marine resources; now, therefore, be it