House Bill No. 1189, introduced by Representative Bryant, amends existing law regarding charter boat fishing guides in Louisiana. The bill mandates that freshwater charter boat fishing guides must possess a valid United States Coast Guard captain's license when operating on waters of the United States located in Louisiana. This requirement is in addition to the current stipulations that guides must hold a state charter boat fishing guide license, proof of commercial marine insurance, and a valid state recreational fishing license. The Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is also tasked with notifying license holders of these additional legal requirements.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the existing law concerning nonresident charter boat fishing guide licenses by changing the terminology from "nonresident saltwater charter boat fishing guide license" to "nonresident charter boat fishing guide license." This change aligns the licensing requirements for nonresidents with the new regulations for freshwater guides, ensuring that all charter boat fishing guides, regardless of residency, must meet the same standards regarding the possession of a captain's license.

Statutes affected:
HB1189 Original: 56:9(A)(1)
HB1189 Engrossed: 56:9(A)(1)
HB1189 Reengrossed: 56:9(A)(1)