Collins accuses top Senate Dem of blocking protections for Maine lobstermen as Cruz vows action

Sen. Susan Collins accused fellow Senate Democrat Maria Cantwell of blocking protections for Maine’s lobster industry from Biden-era federal regulations, as Cantwell prepares to visit Maine to hear from lobstermen. Collins said Cantwell worked in 2022 against an effort by Maine’s delegation to halt the regulations, and later blocked a bill to extend a regulatory pause. The legislation, introduced by Rep. Jared Golden and Rep. Mike Lawler, passed the House in September and would extend the pause on new rules aimed at protecting the endangered North Atlantic right whale through 2035. Senate Commerce Chairman Ted Cruz pledged to advance the measure when Congress returns in November.