Whereas lobstering has served as an economic engine and family tradition in the United States for centuries;

Whereas thousands of families in the United States make their livelihoods from catching, processing, or serving lobsters;

Whereas lobster is a prized and versatile seafood delicacy, celebrated for its unique flavor, tender texture, and ability to enhance a diverse range of culinary creations, from classic dishes to innovative new recipes;

Whereas the lobster industry employs people of all ages year-round, and many harvesters begin fishing as children and stay in the industry for their entire working lives;

Whereas the lobster industry has spearheaded sustainability measures for more than 150 years, ensuring the health of the lobster stock and the marine environment;

Whereas consumers are looking to add more sustainable seafood to their diets, and more people are enjoying lobster at home;

Whereas historical lore notes that lobster likely joined turkey on the table at the very first Thanksgiving feast in 1621, and lobster continues to be a mainstay during many other holiday traditions;

Whereas lobster harvesters are evolving and diversifying their businesses to help maintain the health of the ocean, including through kelp farming, which absorbs carbon dioxide from seawater;

Whereas throughout history, Presidents of the United States have served lobster at their inaugural celebrations and state dinners with international leaders;

Whereas lobster is a versatile source of lean protein that is low in saturated fat and high in vitamin B12;

Whereas lobster is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health and preventing heart disease, lowering blood pressure, and improving the overall function of blood vessels;

Whereas the peak of the lobstering season in the United States occurs in late summer;

Whereas the Unicode Consortium added a lobster to its emoji set in 2018 in recognition of the popularity of the species around the world;

Whereas lobsters have inspired artists in the United States and throughout the world for hundreds of years;

Whereas lobsters have been, and continue to be, used as mascots for sports teams;

Whereas lobster inspires innovation of all kinds beyond the culinary realm, including skincare, fertilizer, robotics, and biodegradable golf balls;

Whereas countless people in the United States enjoy lobster rolls, grilled lobster tails, and lobster bakes to celebrate summer, from beaches to backyards and from fine-dining restaurants to lobster shacks;

Whereas lobster is a cornerstone of New England’s cultural identity, serving as a major tourist attraction and boost to the region’s economy; and

Whereas lobster is a staple on the menus of beloved restaurants across the United States, and in kitchens across the United States, bringing families and friends together: Now, therefore, be it