House Bill No. by Representative Schamerhorn proposes the establishment of a charter guide wildlife management area (WMA) access permit, allowing charter fishing guides to operate within WMAs. The bill amends existing law by adding new provisions to R.S. 56:302.9, specifically creating an annual permit that costs $100. This permit will satisfy the access requirements for charter fishing guides and their clients during for-hire fishing trips within WMAs. The permit is valid for one year, starting on January 1 and expiring on December 31 of the same year.

Additionally, the bill outlines penalties for violations related to charter guide operations, including fines and requirements for offenders to use a vessel monitoring system. It specifies that a first offense incurs a fine of at least $1,000, while subsequent offenses may lead to restrictions on operating vessels without monitoring systems. The Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is tasked with adopting rules and regulations to implement these provisions. The bill will take effect upon the governor's signature or after the designated time for gubernatorial action.

Statutes affected:
HB835 Original: 56:9(H)