Honorable Charles Perry, Chair, Senate Committee on Agriculture, Water & Rural Affairs
FROM:
Ursula Parks, Director, Legislative Budget Board
IN RE:
HB1579 by Lucio III (Relating to the sale and purchase of shark fins or products derived from shark fins; creating a criminal offense.), As Engrossed
No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.
The bill would amend portions of the Parks and Wildlife code relating to saltwater fishing criminal offenses. The bill would prohibit possessing any finfish, other than broadbill swordfish or king mackerel, with the tail removed unless the fish has been processed and delivered to its final destination or a wholesale or retail dealer. The bill would also prohibit buying or selling shark fins, but would allow the possession of shark fins by those who legally take a shark and the fin is taken in manner consistent with the appropriate licenses.
Based on information provided by the Parks and Wildlife Department, duties and responsibilities associated with implementing the provisions of the bill can be absorbed within existing resources.
Local Government Impact
No significant fiscal implication to units of local government is anticipated.