Northeast Fisheries Heritage Protection Act of 2025

This bill would stop any commercial offshore wind projects in Lobster Management Area 1 in the Gulf of Maine, a key fishing ground for lobster and many other species. It aims to protect the region’s fishing economy, which supports thousands of fishermen and coastal businesses and brought in over 400 million pounds of catch worth more than $1.3 billion in 2023, with Maine and Massachusetts producing most of the nation’s lobster harvest. It says keeping this area free of wind leases would avoid conflicts with fishing and preserve a vital fishing ground for future generations.

It also orders a federal study within 120 days after becoming law to check whether current environmental reviews for Gulf of Maine wind projects are strong enough. The study must look at effects on whales and other sea life, fishing jobs and businesses, marine habitats, air quality and greenhouse gases, cultural, historical, and Tribal resources, tourism, and how agencies consult local stakeholders and allow time for public comments.

• Who is affected: New England fishermen and coastal communities; offshore wind developers; federal agencies that review wind projects.
• What changes: No leases or permits for commercial offshore wind in Lobster Management Area 1; a required federal study of the review process and impacts.
• When: The prohibition would apply once the bill becomes law; the study is due within 120 days after enactment.