AUGUSTA — A bill from Senator David Miramant, D-Camden, to extend funding for the Maine Lobster Marketing Collaborative was signed into law May 5 by Governor Janet Mills after receiving bipartisan support in the Legislature.

LD 338, “An Act to Amend the Law Governing the Maine Lobster Marketing Collaborative,” promotes the Maine lobster industry and allows the surcharges to licenses to remain the same.

“Lobstering is an important part of our culture and economy, specifically tourist and hospitality industries,” said Sen. Miramant. “The Maine Lobster Marketing Collaborative, or MLMC, advertises our lobster and the increase in demand for Maine lobster. The lobster industry and MLMC work hand in hand to support Maine’s economy. I proudly sponsored this legislation so they can continue their good work.”

LD 338 extends the Maine Lobster Marketing Collaborative, which was due to end this year. The MLMC develops methods to provide meaningful insights to the industry and evaluates marketing metrics and awareness of the Maine lobster industry as a whole.

The bill was supported by the Maine Lobsterman’s Association and the Lobster Advisory Council.

LD 338 goes into effect 90 days after the Legislature adjourns sine die.