Bill > HB652

This bill provides a comprehensive framework for seafood safety in Louisiana, primarily focusing on imported seafood. The legislation transfers the Seafood Safety Task Force from the Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism to the Department of Agriculture and Forestry, which will now be responsible for administering seafood safety regulations. The bill introduces new requirements for processors and distributors of imported seafood, including mandatory testing to ensure chemical concentrations meet FDA standards, accurate labeling that indicates the origin of seafood, and quarterly reporting of seafood purchases and sales. Processors and distributors will be required to pay an escalating annual imported seafood safety fee, starting at $300 in 2025 and increasing to $1,000 by 2028. The law establishes penalties for non-compliance, including fines ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 for violations such as mislabeling seafood or failing to report seafood transactions. Additionally, the bill empowers the commissioner of agriculture to issue stop orders, conduct investigations, and take civil action against violators. The overall goal is to protect consumers by ensuring the safety and transparency of seafood sold in Louisiana, with a particular emphasis on distinguishing between domestic and imported seafood products.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

https://www.legis.la.gov/legis/BillInfo.aspx?s=25rs&b=HB652&sbi=y