House Bill No. by Representative Orgeron amends the definition of saltwater game fish in Louisiana law. The bill specifically adds Atlantic tarpon (Megalops atlanticus) to the list of saltwater game fish and updates the names of certain species, including correcting the scientific names of blue marlin, black marlin, striped marlin, hatchet marlin, and white marlin. The bill also removes outdated terminology, such as the previous scientific name for blue marlin and black marlin, and clarifies the classification of hatchet marlin.

The effective date of the bill will be upon the governor's signature or, if not signed, upon the expiration of the time for bills to become law without signature. If the bill is vetoed and later approved by the legislature, it will take effect the day after that approval. This legislative change aims to ensure that the definitions and classifications of saltwater game fish are current and accurate for regulatory purposes.

Statutes affected:
HB688 Original: 56:8(70)
HB688 Engrossed: 56:8(70)
HB688 Enrolled: 56:8(70)