A bill to amend 1994 PA 451, entitled “Natural resources and environmental protection act,” by amending sections 47301, 47302, 47303, 47305, 47307, 47308, 47309, 47310, 47311, 47312, 47313, 47314, 47315, 47316, 47317, 47319, 47320, 47321, 47322, 47323, 47324, 47326, 47328, 47329, and 48724 (MCL 324.47301, 324.47302, 324.47303, 324.47305, 324.47307, 324.47308, 324.47309, 324.47310, 324.47311, 324.47312, 324.47313, 324.47314, 324.47315, 324.47316, 324.47317, 324.47319, 324.47320, 324.47321, 324.47322, 324.47323, 324.47324, 324.47326, 324.47328, 324.47329, and 324.48724), sections 47301, 47302, 47305, 47307, 47308, 47310, 47312, 47313, 47314, 47316, 47317, 47319, 47320, 47321, 47322, 47323, 47324, 47326, 47328, 47329, and 48724 as added by 1995 PA 57, section 47303 as amended by 2004 PA 587, and sections 47309, 47311, and 47315 as amended by 2022 PA 34, and by adding sections 47304 and 47363; and to repeal acts and parts of acts.
The bill seeks to update definitions, management practices, and the responsibilities of the Department of Natural Resources, placing a strong emphasis on the use of scientific data for sustainable fish management. It outlines specific conditions for the use of fishing gear, lists commercial fish species, and introduces regulations aimed at protecting the aquatic environment. Key provisions include license renewal rights, fish catch amounts and types, designated fishing areas, gear and methods, department inspections, and compensation for fish taken for scientific purposes. The legislation also mandates financial remuneration to the state by licensees, establishes penalties for violations, and addresses the handling of abandoned or vandalized gear. It details quotas based on scientific estimates, requires adherence to these quotas, and specifies seasonal fishing dates, handling of non-target species, and restrictions on the sale of unlisted fish species. Enhanced regulations feature penalties for multiple violations, restrictions on possessing devices that prevent fish identification and measurement, and requirements for marking and transporting fish containers for traceability and compliance.
Co-sponsored by Reps.
Referred to the Committee on Natural Resources, Environment, Tourism and Outdoor Recreation
