Senate Bill No. 193, introduced by Senator Fesi, aims to establish regulations for the commercial menhaden fishery in Louisiana by enacting R.S. 56:325.7. The bill mandates the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission to create statewide fishing buffers specifically for the menhaden fishery. Notably, the bill includes a provision that prohibits the commission from modifying any existing commercial menhaden fishery buffer zones until August 1, 2028.

The proposed law retains the current authority of the commission to implement rules for the protection and preservation of fish, including the establishment of closed and buffer zones where commercial menhaden fishing is not allowed. This legislation is set to take effect on August 1, 2026, ensuring that the menhaden fishery is managed sustainably while providing a period of stability for the existing buffer zones.