This bill amends existing laws regarding seafood licensing in Louisiana, specifically focusing on the sale of imported seafood. It requires licensed wholesale/retail and retail dealers who sell seafood sourced from outside the federal exclusive economic zone (EEZ) to obtain an additional imported seafood license. The bill establishes a license fee of $300, with the license valid for one year, and outlines the process for purchasing the license. Additionally, it mandates that 10% of the revenue from these licenses be allocated to the Conservation Fund, while the remainder will go to the newly created Imported Seafood Safety Fund.

The bill also modifies the existing provisions related to seafood dealer licenses by adding new sections that detail the requirements for obtaining an imported seafood license. It clarifies that restaurants and retail grocers who only sell seafood fully prepared for immediate consumption do not need to be licensed under these new provisions, provided they purchase their seafood from licensed dealers. The amendments aim to enhance the safety and regulation of imported seafood in Louisiana, ensuring that proper testing and monitoring are conducted to protect public health.

Statutes affected:
HB676 Original: 56:306(S, 56:1(S, 40:35(C)
HB676 Engrossed: 56:306(S, 56:1(S, 40:35(C)
HB676 Reengrossed: 56:306(S, 56:1(S, 40:35(C)
HB676 Enrolled: 56:306(S
HB676 Act 719: 56:306(S