DIGEST
The digest printed below was prepared by House Legislative Services. It constitutes no part of
the legislative instrument. The keyword, one-liner, abstract, and digest do not constitute part of
the law or proof or indicia of legislative intent. [R.S. 1:13(B) and 24:177(E)]
Garofalo HB No. 1160
Abstract: Requires the Wildlife and Fisheries Commission to establish a program to enhance
and elevate professionalism in the commercial crab industry.
Proposed law requires the Wildlife and Fisheries Commission to establish a program to increase
and elevate professionalism in the commercial crab industry. Requires the program to include
education in the proper fishing techniques necessary for the health and sustainability of the
species; proper techniques for the best capture and presentation of the crabs for marketability;
proper instructions regarding the placement, tending, and maintenance of crab traps to reduce
potential conflicts with other user groups; and authorizes the program to include an
apprenticeship program. Requires that the professionalism program be established no later than
Nov. 15, 2014, through rules promulgated pursuant to the Administrative Procedure Act.
Proposed law provides that beginning Nov. 15, 2014, and applicable to license year 2015 and
thereafter, no person can be issued a commercial crab trap gear license unless that person
qualifies under one or both of the following provisions:
(1)The person possessed a valid commercial crab trap gear license during any two license
years between 2011 and 2014.
(2)The person has enrolled in and completed the program to increase and elevate
professionalism in the commercial crab industry established pursuant to the provisions of
this Section.
Effective upon signature of governor or lapse of time for gubernatorial action.
(Amends R.S. 56:305.6)