House Bill No. by Representative Coates aims to amend existing laws regarding sanctuaries in Lake Pontchartrain by creating the Manchac Wildlife Management Area Sanctuary. The bill modifies R.S. 56:804(A) through (E) to establish this new sanctuary, which will be designated for fish, shrimp, and other seafood and marine life. The Manchac Wildlife Management Area Sanctuary will be located adjacent to and south of the existing wildlife management area, with specific boundaries outlined in the bill. Additionally, the bill updates the terminology from "Sanctuary" to "Sanctuaries" to reflect the creation of multiple protected areas.

The bill retains current regulations that prohibit the use of certain fishing equipment, such as trawls and skimmer nets, within the sanctuaries, while allowing for the use of legal hoop nets, slat traps, and crab traps. It also permits the spearing of fish by skin divers operating for sport. The administration of these sanctuaries will fall under the jurisdiction of the Fish and Game Section of the Wildlife and Fisheries Commission. Overall, the bill seeks to enhance the protection of marine life in Lake Pontchartrain while maintaining specific fishing regulations.

Statutes affected:
HB754 Original: 56:804(A)