The proposed bill aims to enhance the labeling and certification of wild and farm-raised fish in Florida. It amends existing law to classify wild and farm-raised fish as misbranded if they are not labeled according to new requirements established in section 500.65. The bill creates the Florida Wild Fish and Seafood Certification Program, which mandates the Commissioner of Agriculture and Consumer Services to set standards for quality certification of Florida wild fish and seafood products. This includes establishing harvest requirements, compliance standards, and packaging requirements. Fishermen and seafood dealers must apply for a participation permit to market their products as Florida wild fish or seafood, and any non-compliant products must be removed from the market.
Additionally, the bill introduces specific labeling requirements for food establishments selling wild or farm-raised fish, including the need to disclose the country of origin and whether the fish is wild or farm-raised. This information must be clearly displayed on menus or signs in a conspicuous location. The bill also imposes penalties for mislabeling fish products, reinforcing the importance of accurate representation to consumers. The new regulations are set to take effect on July 1, 2025.