Bill > HB497

This bill amends the Louisiana Catch and Cook Program to expand its provisions and include licensed charter boat captains as participants. Specifically, the bill allows charter boat captains to provide fish directly to retail food establishments for preparation and consumption, in addition to the existing provisions for recreational fishermen and alligator hunters. The bill requires that fish be cleaned, filleted, placed in food-grade packaging, and properly labeled with details including the date, time caught, and the full name and address of the charter captain or fisherman. The Department of Wildlife and Fisheries will establish, manage, and promote the program in collaboration with the Louisiana Seafood Promotion and Marketing Board, Louisiana Charter Boat Association, and Louisiana Restaurant Association. Retail food establishments and charter boat captains must apply for a participation permit from the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries at no cost, with the understanding that the permit can be suspended or revoked for program violations. The bill aims to provide more flexibility for charter boat captains and potentially support local seafood businesses by creating additional avenues for selling and preparing fresh, locally caught fish.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.legis.la.gov/legis/BillInfo.aspx?s=25rs&b=HB497&sbi=y