December 16, 2009
Maine investigates lobster price-fixing complaints
Clarke CanfieldMaine's attorney general is investigating allegations of price-fixing among some lobster dealers in the state.
A spokeswoman for state prosecutors, Kate Simmons, says the investigation is in the early stages and is expected to last several months. It was begun after the office received a letter signed by more than 50 lobstermen seeking an investigation of dealers.
Investigators are focusing on whether the dealers violated the state's commerce and trade laws. It comes as lobstermen continue to suffer from low prices brought on by the recession.
Maine lobstermen account for about 80 percent of the nation's catch of American lobster.
The Associated Press