Relating to natural resources; to prohibit a person from introducing or placing fish into the waters of the state without a permit issued by the Commissioner of the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources; to provide exceptions; to require the commissioner to issue a permit for the introduction of black bass into the Coosa River in certain circumstances; to provide for penalties; and in connection therewith would have as its purpose or effect the requirement of a new or increased expenditure of local funds within the meaning of Section 111.05 of the Constitution of Alabama of 2022.
Impact
The bill outlines a process through which the Commissioner must issue permits for certain introductions, specifically noting that municipalities or private entities may introduce black bass into the Coosa River, provided they meet specific conditions. This includes obtaining black bass from an approved local hatchery and covering all associated costs. The legislation is designed to ensure that only appropriate species are introduced to the ecosystem, potentially minimizing the risks of invasive species disrupting local habitats. By structuring the permit process, the bill aims to foster better management of aquatic resources in Alabama.
Summary
House Bill 248 is a legislative proposal aimed at regulating the introduction of fish into the waters of Alabama. Under the current laws, the Commissioner of the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources already has the authority to introduce desirable species of game fish. However, this bill seeks to enhance control by prohibiting unauthorized individuals from introducing or placing any fish into state waters without a specific permit issued by the Commissioner. This change underscores the importance of protecting local ecosystems from potential harm due to unregulated fish introductions.
Contention
One notable aspect of HB 248 is its financial implications for local governments. The bill would require a new or increased expenditure of local funds for the permits related to fish introductions, which may raise concerns among local entities about the financial burden it could impose. While the bill allows certain exceptions that exclude it from needing a 2/3 approval vote from local governmental entities, there might be debate regarding the fairness of this stipulation, especially from those who believe that local governments should retain greater control over their natural resources. The balance between state oversight and local governance will likely be a central point of discussion as the bill progresses.
Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Commissioner, to require issuance of permit to release black bass into Coosa river under certain circumstances
Fishing; Commissioner of Conservation and Natural Resources prohibited from adopting slot limit rule for tournaments on Coosa River under certain conditions
Fishing; Commissioner of Conservation and Natural Resources prohibited from adopting slot limit rule for tournaments on Coosa River under certain conditions
Shark alert system; established; implementation by Department of Conservation and Natural Resources required; state and local entities assistance required
Stem cell therapy; permitted in certain circumstances, notice and consent requirements provided, exceptions provided, State Board of Medical Examiners required to adopt rules
Quarries; Environmental Management Department prohibited form issuing permits under certain circumstances; procedures for local government approval provided; advisory boards provided for
Alabama Justice Information Commission; collection, dissemination, and use of biometric identifiers by certain entities provided for; Alabama Background Check Service established, types, uses, and fees for certain background checks for noncriminal justice purposes authorized; Alabama Rap Back Program established, penalties provided for; existing law relating to release of criminal history information repealed