Rule change for processing lobster

The Maine Department of Marine Resources is considering a change that would allow licensed lobster processors to process lobster from the shell without holding a separate lobster meat permit.

The agency said in a statement that the change would mean lobster processor license holders would not have to purchase the $159 annual lobster meat permit. The state also said the change would allow the processors to streamline operations.

The state had 15 lobster processing license holders last year and has issued seven licenses this year. The license allows the holders to process lobsters in the shell, but not out.

The state is accepting comments about the proposal until June 6. Comments can be mailed to dmr.rulemaking@maine.gov.