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2003 SESSION

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HB 2752 Nonindigenous Aquatic Nuisance Species Act.

Introduced by: Kenneth R. Plum | all patrons    ...    notes | add to my profiles

SUMMARY AS PASSED: (all summaries)

Nonindigenous Aquatic Nuisance Species Act. Creates the Nonindigenous Aquatic Nuisance Species Act within the Department of Game and Inland Fisheries. This bill declares the zebra mussel, the quagga mussel, and northern snakehead fish as nonindigenous aquatic nuisance species. This bill authorizes the Board of Game and Inland Fisheries to declare other nonindigenous aquatic nuisance species if it finds that the presence of such nonindigenous aquatic species in state waters poses or is likely to pose a significant threat of harm. This bill makes it illegal to knowingly import, possess, transport, sell, purchase, give, receive, or introduce into state waters any nonindigenous aquatic nuisance species without a permit from the Director. Permits may be issued for research by recognized academic institutions or government agencies upon receiving satisfactory assurance that adequate safeguards will be maintained to prevent the escape or introduction of any such species into state waters. Any person who violates this Article or who knowingly obstructs the Director in carrying out his duties, shall (i) be subject to a civil penalty of not more than $25,000, and (ii) be liable for the costs of investigation, control, and eradication incurred by any state agency or local government of the Commonwealth as a result of such unlawful conduct. This bill contains an emergency clause and incorporates HB 2814.


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