Bill > SB777

This bill modifies Oklahoma's wildlife and aquaculture regulations by updating rules around fish harvesting, production, and sales. The legislation primarily focuses on preventing wild fish from being commercially sold and establishing clearer guidelines for aquatic species management. Specifically, the bill prohibits selling game fish or paddlefish obtained from public waters that have been mixed with privately produced fish, and allows licensed producers to collect limited broodstock from public waters for fish propagation under strict conditions. The Department of Wildlife Conservation is authorized to manage broodstock transactions and establish oversight processes, with fees that must be reasonable and transparent. Additionally, the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food, and Forestry can now assess import fees for entities selling live fish without proper licensing, and requires each shipment to include a health certificate. The bill also expands the definition of "game fish" to include hybrid striped bass. These changes aim to protect wild fish populations, regulate commercial aquaculture, and ensure proper monitoring of fish sales and transfers. The bill is set to become effective on November 1, 2025.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Justice

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=sb777&Session=2600