ME LD2216

Establishes the Maine Blue Economy Center as an independent public instrumentality to coordinate and expand Maine's blue economy sector, covering aquaculture, marine biotechnology, ocean data research, coastal infrastructure, and sustainable boat building

Creates a 15-member Board of Directors with 4 ex officio members (including commissioners from Economic Development, Maine Technology Institute, UMaine System, and Community College System) and 11 Governor-appointed members representing businesses, research institutions, tribal nations, and rural counties

Establishes the Maine Blue Economy Fund as a nonlapsing fund to provide investments, grants, loans, and incentives to certified blue economy businesses, research institutions, and educational institutions

Appropriates $1,000,000 in one-time General Fund money for fiscal year 2026-27 to support the center's startup costs

Requires annual reporting to the Governor and Legislature within 120 days of fiscal year close, plus an interim report within 180 days after all board members are appointed