Court allows lobster fishermen to sue for defamation

A federal court has allowed Maine lobster fishermen to sue the Monterey Bay Aquarium for defamation. The aquarium's Seafood Watch program labeled U.S. and Canadian lobster as an unwise choice due to concerns about whale entanglement. The court ruled that the fishermen's reputation was harmed by the aquarium's 2022 report, which led some retailers to stop selling lobster. The aquarium plans to appeal the decision, asserting its right to inform the public. The Maine lobster industry is valued at over $500 million. The fishermen's association called the ruling significant, emphasizing their commitment to defending their reputation and livelihood.