Robert Beal

Rule Changes

As of October 2026: Oversees the commission's programs and this research project

The $29.1 million research project into right whale habitat and lobster gear was scheduled to begin October 1, but the regulatory picture is shifting. On September 1, the House passed a bill to extend a pause on new whale rules from 2028 to 2035, and NOAA's comment period on the next round of gear rules closes October 16.

Updated Oct 8