Mississippi House Bill HB1321

Mississippi 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/17/22
• Refer: 1/17/22
• Failed: 2/10/22

Caption

Menhaden; prohibit taking of within one mile buffer of Jackson County, Mississippi.

Impact

If enacted, HB1321 is expected to have significant implications for both commercial and recreational fishing activities in the specified coastal regions. The prohibition of purse seines is aimed at reducing overfishing and ensuring the conservation of marine resources. By allowing local governments to regulate fishing practices, the bill could lead to more tailored and community-driven management of fishing resources, balancing ecological needs with economic interests.

Summary

House Bill 1321 focuses on the regulation of fishing activities in specific areas along the Mississippi coastline. The bill primarily aims to prohibit the use of purse seines for catching fish within one mile of the shorelines of Cat Island and Jackson County. This legislative change is intended to protect local fish populations and maintain sustainable fishing practices in the region. The bill also brings forth the potential for local governance as it allows the boards of supervisors in Hancock, Harrison, and Jackson Counties to propose regulations to the commission regarding the use of other fishing nets within their jurisdictions.

Contention

While the bill is positioned as a conservation measure, potential points of contention may arise regarding its impact on local fishing industries. Some stakeholders, particularly commercial fishers, might argue that such regulations could restrict their operations and economic viability. The repeal of Section 49-15-35, which allowed the commission to adopt ordinances concerning menhaden fishing, further indicates a shift towards localized control, but it may also raise concerns among fishing communities about the effectiveness of local regulations versus state oversight.