The bill amends the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act by updating the language and provisions related to the issuance and transfer of fishing licenses for vessels. Key changes include the department's responsibility to prepare and issue licenses upon payment of a fee, which has been increased from $1.00 to $25.00. The bill allows licensees to list multiple vessels on a single license and to modify their vessel listings with written notification to the department. Additionally, it mandates that a suitable tag must be attached to the vessel for identification purposes.

The bill also outlines the conditions under which licenses can be transferred, including provisions for transferring to a different vessel during repairs, upon sale to a new owner, or in the event of loss due to fire or collision. It specifies that the difference in fees must be paid when transferring to a larger vessel, while no refund is provided for transfers to smaller vessels. Furthermore, it clarifies that a license must be used for commercial fishing activities within a designated radius of the original port. The amendments aim to streamline the licensing process and enhance clarity for licensees.

Statutes affected:
Substitute (H-1): 324.47331
House Introduced Bill: 324.47331
As Passed by the House: 324.47331