An Act to open the Massachusetts lobster fishery

This bill would allow commercial lobster fishermen with valid Massachusetts permits to fish year-round in state waters, removing current seasonal restrictions. It directly affects licensed lobster fishermen by enabling continuous harvesting without seasonal closures. The key provision requires the Department of Marine Fisheries to permit 12-month fishing operations per permit, aligning with United Nations maritime boundaries (UNCLOS). The bill does not change permit requirements or create new fees, only extending the operational period for existing permit holders.