Senate Bill No. 23, introduced by Senator Lambert, amends the existing law regarding the recording of commercial receipts for fish sold by wholesale and retail seafood dealers. The bill specifies that these dealers must complete a three-part commercial receipt form when acquiring fish from commercial fishermen. The key changes include the requirement that one part of the receipt must be transmitted to the commercial fisherman within twenty-four hours of the transaction, rather than being given at the time of the transaction as previously stated. Additionally, the bill clarifies that the dealer is responsible for recording specific information on the receipt, including details about the dealer and fisherman, transaction date, species identification, quantity, size, condition, unit price, and any necessary permits.

The proposed law retains the essential elements of the current law while introducing the time frame for the transmission of receipts and the recording of information. These changes aim to enhance the accuracy and timeliness of documentation in the seafood industry, ensuring that both dealers and fishermen have access to the necessary transaction records promptly. The bill is set to take effect on August 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
SB23 Original: 56:5(B)
SB23 Engrossed: 56:5(B)