Collins Blasts Cantwell Over Maine Lobster Bill Stalled in Senate

Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, directed sharp criticism at Sen. Maria Cantwell, D-Wash., on Thursday, accusing the Washington Democrat of obstructing a bill designed to shield the state's lobster industry from federal rulemaking. The dispute centers on the Northeast Lobsterman Protection Act, which would extend a temporary pause on new regulations through 2035. For Maine lobstermen, the delay provides critical time before potentially costly restrictions targeting the endangered North Atlantic right whale take full effect.

Collins highlighted a specific timeline in her remarks. She noted that in 2022, Cantwell voted against the Maine delegation's initial effort to halt regulations issued during the Biden administration. According to Collins, Cantwell has continued this opposition throughout the current year by blocking the legislation that would extend that regulatory pause. The bill passed the House in September after being introduced by Rep. Jared Golden, D-Maine, and Rep. Mike Lawler, R-N.Y.

The legislative push is led by Senate Commerce Committee Chairman Ted Cruz, R-Texas. This week, Cruz pledged to advance the measure when Congress returns in November. He stated that he aims to place the bill on President Trump's desk without further changes or delays. Cruz credited Collins for her role in the process, describing her leadership as instrumental in protecting Maine's fishers from burdensome rules.

Collins and Sen. Angus King, I-Maine, previously urged the committee to move the act forward in a September letter. They cited data from the Maine Lobstermen's Association, which estimates the industry supports $2 billion in annual economic activity and more than 17,500 jobs. The senators argued that the pause is necessary to sustain the state's coastal communities and overall economic stability.

Cantwell is scheduled to visit Maine to hold a listening session with lobstermen. The event will be hosted by the Maine Lobster Union and will feature Democratic Senate candidate Troy Jackson. Cantwell and Jackson did not respond to multiple requests for comment regarding the timing of the visit or the ongoing legislative conflict. The next major step for the bill is its consideration in the Senate Commerce Committee later this year.