An Act To Establish The Maine Blue Economy Center

This bill establishes the Maine Blue Economy Center as an independent public entity to coordinate and expand economic activities related to aquaculture, marine research, and coastal infrastructure. The center will be governed by a 15-member board and will manage a dedicated fund to provide grants, loans, and incentives to certified businesses, research institutions, and educational organizations in the state. It authorizes the center to issue bonds and accept various forms of financial assistance while requiring annual financial reports to the legislature for oversight. The legislation appropriates $1 million in one-time funding from the General Fund for the fiscal year 2026-27 to cover initial startup costs.