SEARCH SITE

VIRGINIA LAW PORTAL

SEARCHABLE DATABASES

ACROSS SESSIONS

Developed and maintained by the Division of Legislative Automated Systems.

2010 SESSION

  • | print version

SB 668 Saltwater recreational fishing; licensing in conformance with national registry.

Introduced by: Ralph S. Northam | all patrons    ...    notes | add to my profiles | history

SUMMARY AS PASSED:

Saltwater recreational fishing; conformance with national registry.  Directs the Virginia Marine Resources Commission to establish the Fisherman Identification Program, which is to be consistent with the National Saltwater Angler Registry Program. In order to pay for the program, a one-time fee increase of not more than $10 will be placed on the saltwater recreational boat license. Those persons who purchase a saltwater fishing license are not required to register with the program.

SUMMARY AS PASSED SENATE:

Saltwater recreational fishing; conformance with national registry.  Conforms Virginia's licensing of saltwater anglers with the rule issued by the National Marine Fisheries Service, thus exempting anglers in Virginia from federal registration. Several exemptions from the requirement to purchase a license will no longer be available, including exemptions for persons fishing from their own property, a federally owned park, or licensed rental boats. Those holding a lifetime license will continue to be exempt from further license requirements. Persons over 65 and persons fishing from a rental boat will pay a reduced license fee of $5. The provisions of this act become effective on January 1, 2011, and will expire upon any repeal or expiration of the regulations adopted by the National Marine Fisheries Service establishing a registry of recreational anglers fishing in federal waters.

SUMMARY AS INTRODUCED:

Saltwater recreational fishing; conformance with national registry.  Conforms Virginia's licensing of saltwater anglers with the rule issued by the National Marine Fisheries Service, thus exempting anglers in Virginia from federal registration. Several exemptions from the requirement to purchase a license will no longer be available, including exemptions for persons fishing from their own property, a federally owned park, or licensed rental boats. Those holding a lifetime license will continue to be exempt from further license requirements. Persons over 65 and persons fishing from a rental boat will pay a reduced license fee of $5.