💨 Abstract

A Maine congressman and fishing groups want to delay whale protection rules for 10 years, citing the economic impact on Maine's lobster industry. The North Atlantic right whale, numbering around 370, faces threats from fishing gear and ship collisions. Jared Golden and others seek to extend the current moratorium on regulations until 2035 to develop scientifically-sound rules. This move is supported by fishing organizations but criticized by environmental groups.

Courtesy: WTOP Staff