Bill > SB474

This bill establishes the Atlantic Menhaden Research Fund, a dedicated non-reverting fund managed by the Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS), to support research on Atlantic menhaden, a crucial fish species. The fund will be used by VIMS, in collaboration with the Virginia Marine Resources Commission (VMRC) and various stakeholders like recreational anglers and fishing industries, to conduct research aimed at determining a scientifically sound and ecologically responsible harvest limit for Atlantic menhaden in the Chesapeake Bay. This research will specifically investigate seasonal abundance, migration patterns between the ocean and the Bay, the impact of predators like striped bass and osprey, commercial fishing activities, and the potential for localized depletion of menhaden. The bill also mandates that the Menhaden Management Advisory Committee will contribute analysis on potential workforce impacts from changes to menhaden catch limits and recommendations for worker retraining. VIMS is required to submit an annual report by October 1st to legislative committees, the Secretary of Natural and Historic Resources, and relevant fisheries commissions, detailing its research progress, findings, recommendations, and proposed expenditures from the fund for the following year, starting in 2027.

Budget and Finance

https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20261/SB474