Maine 2023-2024 Regular Session

Maine House Bill LD2208

Introduced
2/13/24  
Engrossed
2/13/24  
Enrolled
2/20/24  

Caption

An Act Removing the Lobster Advisory Council from the State Government Evaluation Act Review Requirements

Impact

The bill is expected to reshape the regulatory framework for the Lobster Advisory Council, as it would no longer be subjected to the same level of scrutiny and evaluation as other state entities. This move could enhance the efficiency of the council's operations, empowering it to focus on marine resource management with less administrative burden. However, the long-term implications on accountability and transparency within the council's operations require consideration, especially in relation to public trust and stakeholder confidence.

Summary

LD2208 is a legislative bill that seeks to remove the Lobster Advisory Council from the review requirements stipulated in the State Government Evaluation Act. This change signifies a shift in how the state interacts with this specific advisory body, streamlining their evaluation and oversight processes. By exempting the Lobster Advisory Council from these evaluation requirements, the bill aims to give the council more autonomy in operating without the constraints of periodic reviews by the state government.

Sentiment

General sentiment around LD2208 appears to be cautiously optimistic, with supporters arguing that the autonomy granted to the Lobster Advisory Council will allow for more responsive and agile management of lobster resources. Critics, however, may express concerns that the lack of evaluative oversight could lead to issues of governance and diminish the authority of state mechanisms designed to ensure accountability in public service roles.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding LD2208 include the balance between autonomy and accountability. Supporters of the bill advocate that the council can make quicker decisions tailored to the needs of the lobster industry and marine ecology without frequent state evaluations. Conversely, opponents might argue that removing these review requirements could lead to diminished oversight, which is essential for ensuring that the council operates in the public interest. This conflict highlights the ongoing debate regarding the role and oversight of advisory bodies in the state's governance structure.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

ME LD2064

An Act to Amend the Laws Regarding Certain Advisory Councils and Boards Related to the Department of Marine Resources

ME LD1179

An Act to Reestablish the Marine Recreational Fishery Advisory Council at the Department of Marine Resources

ME LD1336

An Act to Establish the Maine-Aomori Sister-state Advisory Council

ME LD1845

An Act to Establish the Working Waterfront Advisory Council

ME SB00180

An Act Concerning Youth Advisory Councils And Foster Families.

ME LD742

An Act to Divest State Pensions from Companies Boycotting Maine Lobster

ME LD120

An Act to Expand the Membership of the Homeland Security Advisory Council

ME LD1669

An Act to Establish the Cannabis Advisory Council

ME HB1836

State government; State Use Advisory Council; terms; effective date.

ME SB00095

An Act Concerning Connecticut's Shellfish Restoration Program And The Connecticut Seafood Advisory Council.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.