This bill aims to transfer the responsibilities related to aquaculture from the commissioner of natural resources to the commissioner of agriculture, thereby clarifying the authority of the latter in managing aquaculture activities. It includes amendments to various sections of the Minnesota Statutes, specifically sections 17.4981 to 17.4997, to reflect this transfer of duties. Key changes include the establishment of an aquaculture account within the agricultural fund, which will be used to administer the relevant sections of the law. Additionally, the bill repeals certain provisions related to private fish hatcheries and updates definitions and regulations to ensure compliance with the new structure.

The bill also introduces new provisions, such as the requirement for the commissioner of agriculture to develop best management practices for aquaculture and to establish fees for licensing and inspections that are not subject to typical rulemaking processes. It mandates that fish health inspections be conducted regularly and outlines the procedures for transporting aquatic life, including the need for a state-issued bill of lading. The effective date for these changes is set for July 1, 2028, allowing time for the transition and implementation of the new regulations.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 97C.211, 17.4981, 17.4982, 17.4984, 17.4985, 17.4991, 17.4992, 17.4995, 17.4997