Bill > HB893

This bill modifies regulations for oyster fishing licenses in Maryland by changing administrative penalties for certain violations. The legislation allows the Department of Natural Resources to suspend an oyster authorization for up to 5 years (instead of immediately revoking it) for a first violation of specific offenses, such as taking oysters in prohibited areas, using prohibited gear, harvesting outside designated times or seasons, or harvesting from a leased area without permission. For a second or subsequent violation, the authorization will now be fully revoked. The bill also eliminates the previous requirement that administrative hearings must be held within 90 days of an offense and provides a pathway for individuals whose oyster authorizations were revoked before July 1, 2025, to potentially have their authorization reissued and their entitlement to work in the oyster fishery reinstated after 5 years. This change aims to provide more flexibility in enforcement while still maintaining strict standards for responsible oyster fishing practices.

Education, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0893?ys=2025RS