This bill amends existing Louisiana laws regarding seafood licensing, specifically focusing on the requirements for wholesale/retail and retail dealers who sell imported seafood. It mandates that these dealers obtain an additional imported seafood license, which is valid for one year and costs $300. The bill also establishes that 10% of the revenue from these licenses will be allocated to the Conservation Fund, while the remainder will go to the newly created Imported Seafood Safety Fund. This fund will be used exclusively for the sampling, analysis, testing, and monitoring of imported seafood products to ensure they are safe for human consumption.

Additionally, the bill repeals a duplicative fee and clarifies the licensing process for seafood dealers who source products from outside the federal exclusive economic zone (EEZ). It specifies that both wholesale/retail and retail seafood dealers must comply with these new licensing requirements, ensuring that all seafood sold in Louisiana meets safety standards. The Louisiana Department of Health will oversee the administration of these licenses and the associated safety measures.

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