The Penobscot River runs through the Penobscot Nation in Maine. Photo by Cheryl Daigle
The Maine Joint Standing Committee on Marine Resources voted 8-2 against a bill to authorize fishing agreements with tribes. Rep. Matthew Dana introduced the bill. It would authorize the state to work with the Aroostook Band of Micmacs, the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians, the Penobscot Nation and the Passamaquoddy Tribe (Pleasant Point and Indian Township). According to the Associated Press, some lawmakers said the bill wasn't necessary because tribes can already enter into agreements with the state. But efforts to do that have failed as state officials continue to assert jurisdiction over tribal fishing activities. Even though the committee voted against the bill, it can still be presented to the full Legislature, the AP reported. Dana, who is a non-voting representative of the Passamquoddy Tribe, will continue to push for its passage. Get the Story:
Panel votes against fishing pact with tribes (WLBZ 5/14)
Maine lawmakers turn down tribes’ plan to share in fish management (AP 5/14)
Tribal-state elver dispute flares up again (The Quoddy Tides 5/8)
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