This bill establishes new regulations regarding the labeling and certification of wild and farm-raised fish in Florida. It amends section 500.11 of the Florida Statutes to classify wild and farm-raised fish as misbranded if they are not labeled according to the new requirements set forth in section 500.65. The bill creates the Florida Wild Fish and Seafood Certification Program under section 500.601, which mandates the Commissioner of Agriculture to develop standards for the certification of wild fish and seafood products. This includes establishing rules for harvest, compliance, packaging, and certification protocols. 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 and public food service establishments selling wild or farm-raised fish that originated outside the United States. These establishments must provide clear information about the fish's origin and whether it is wild or farm-raised, either through signage or menu displays. The bill also imposes penalties for mislabeling fish products, reinforcing the importance of accurate representation in the seafood market. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.