Bill > S2057

This bill prohibits the sale, trade, distribution, or possession of shark fins that have been separated from a shark before its lawful landing, with exceptions for lawfully obtained fins used for scientific research or educational purposes, and for fins from smooth dogfish or spiny dogfish. Commercial and recreational fishermen are permitted to possess fins from sharks they have lawfully caught, consistent with their licenses. The Commissioner of Environmental Protection is empowered to levy significant civil administrative penalties for violations, with escalating fines for repeat offenses, and can also seek criminal charges for third or subsequent violations, which could result in imprisonment. Additionally, violators may be liable for administrative fees, court costs, and attorney fees, and any illegally possessed shark fins, as well as vessels or equipment used in violations, can be confiscated and forfeited. The bill also includes a provision allowing possession, sale, trade, or distribution of shark fins already in a person's possession until January 1, 2016.