Rep. Rielly’s bills to support Maine’s growing aquaculture industry signed into law – Maine.gov

Legislative Advances Supporting Maine’s Working Waterfront and Aquaculture Sector

Introduction

On June 27, 2025, three significant legislative measures sponsored by Representative Morgan Rielly (D-Westbrook) were signed into law in Augusta, Maine. These laws aim to strengthen the working waterfront infrastructure, address nuisance complaints related to aquaculture, and simplify the aquaculture lease renewal process. These initiatives align closely with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 14 (Life Below Water), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production).

Key Legislative Measures

1. LD 1595: Protection Against Nuisance Complaints for Aquaculture Workers

   LD 1595 extends protections to the aquaculture sector similar to those currently afforded to commercial fishermen under Maine statute regarding nuisance complaints. This measure addresses unfair nuisance claims from coastal landowners who oppose aquaculture operations due to noise, sight, or odor concerns, which can disrupt food production and economic activity.

   • Supports SDG 14 by promoting sustainable use of marine resources.
   • Enhances SDG 8 by protecting livelihoods in the aquaculture industry.

2. LD 1596: Review and Recommendations for Aquaculture Lease Processes

   This bill mandates the Maine Department of Marine Resources to submit a report by January 1, 2026, to the Legislature’s Marine Resources Committee. The report will include recommended changes to improve the aquaculture leasing process, addressing challenges faced by sea farmers and commercial fishermen.

   • Promotes SDG 12 by encouraging efficient and sustainable resource management.
   • Supports SDG 14 through improved governance of marine resource use.

3. LD 1722: Simplification of Aquaculture Lease Renewals

   Passed as emergency legislation, LD 1722 takes immediate effect to ease the lease renewal process for aquaculture workers. This reduces administrative burdens and industry instability, fostering a more supportive environment for sustainable aquaculture development.

   • Advances SDG 8 by creating stable economic opportunities.
   • Contributes to SDG 14 by ensuring continuity in sustainable aquaculture practices.

Impact and Endorsements

Representative Morgan Rielly emphasized the importance of these laws in balancing innovation, regulation, and environmental stewardship. He stated that the bills ensure the leasing process remains responsive, efficient, and fair while upholding Maine’s high environmental and public trust standards.

Supporters such as Sebastian Belle from the Maine Aquaculture Association praised Rep. Rielly’s efforts, noting that these legislative achievements represent significant progress for Maine’s working waterfront community. The measures are expected to benefit coastal families and communities dependent on the ocean economy.

Representative Morgan Rielly’s Role

• Currently serving his third term in the Maine House of Representatives.
• Member of the Joint Standing Committee on Marine Resources and the Joint Standing Committee on Environment and Natural Resources.
• Represents a portion of Westbrook, Maine.

Contact Information

For further information, please contact:

• Brian Lee (Representative Rielly’s Office)
• Phone: 305-965-2744

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected

1. SDG 14: Life Below Water – The article focuses on supporting aquaculture and commercial fishing industries, which are directly related to the sustainable use and conservation of marine resources.
2. SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – By simplifying aquaculture leases and protecting workers from nuisance complaints, the article addresses economic growth and decent work opportunities in coastal communities.
3. SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – The measures promote sustainable aquaculture practices and innovation while maintaining environmental standards.
4. SDG 15: Life on Land (indirectly) – By addressing nuisance complaints from coastal landowners, the article touches on the balance between land use and marine activities.

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs Identified

1. SDG 14 Targets:
   • Target 14.2: Sustainably manage and protect marine and coastal ecosystems to avoid significant adverse impacts.
   • Target 14.4: Effectively regulate harvesting and end overfishing, illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing and destructive fishing practices.
   • Target 14.b: Provide access for small-scale artisanal fishers to marine resources and markets.
2. SDG 8 Targets:
   • Target 8.3: Promote development-oriented policies that support productive activities, decent job creation, entrepreneurship, creativity and innovation.
   • Target 8.5: Achieve full and productive employment and decent work for all women and men.
3. SDG 12 Targets:
   • Target 12.2: Achieve the sustainable management and efficient use of natural resources.
   • Target 12.4: Achieve environmentally sound management of chemicals and wastes.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied to Measure Progress

1. Number of nuisance complaints filed and resolved – The article discusses nuisance complaints against aquaculture workers and the legal protections to reduce unfair complaints, implying this as an indicator of social and regulatory progress.
2. Number and efficiency of aquaculture lease renewals – Simplifying and improving the lease renewal process is a key measure of regulatory efficiency and industry stability.
3. Report on recommended changes to aquaculture leases – The submission of a report by the Department of Marine Resources is an indicator of policy review and adaptation.
4. Employment and economic stability in the aquaculture and commercial fishing sectors – Implied through references to supporting workers and reducing burdens in the industry.
5. Environmental and public trust standards compliance – Maintaining high environmental standards is highlighted, implying monitoring of environmental impact indicators.

4. Table of SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: maine.gov