House Bill No. by Representative Lacombe amends the Louisiana Catch and Cook Program to enhance its operations and expand participation. The bill allows licensed charter boat captains to provide fish directly to retail food establishments, thereby facilitating a more direct supply chain for fresh seafood. It also establishes that the program will be managed in collaboration with the Louisiana Seafood Promotion and Marketing Board, the Louisiana Charter Boat Association, and the Louisiana Restaurant Association. Additionally, the bill mandates that fish or alligator meat provided to retail establishments must be cleaned, filleted, packaged, labeled, and properly refrigerated, with specific labeling requirements including the date and time of catch, as well as the name and address of the licensed provider.

Furthermore, the bill clarifies that any retail food establishment or licensed charter captain wishing to participate in the program must apply for a participation permit from the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, which will be issued at no cost. The permit can be suspended or revoked for violations of program rules. The Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is also tasked with providing the names and locations of participating establishments to the Louisiana Department of Health upon request. Overall, the bill aims to streamline the process for recreational fishermen and charter captains to utilize their catch in commercial settings while ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations.

Statutes affected:
HB497 Original: 56:317(B)(1)
HB497 Engrossed: 56:317(B)(1)
HB497 Reengrossed: 56:317(B)(1)
HB497 Enrolled: 56:317(B)(1)
HB497 Act : 56:317(B)(1)