The bill establishes a new nonspot shrimp pot fishery license in Washington State, amending several sections of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) related to shrimp fisheries. It introduces the definition of "nonspot shrimp" and outlines the licensing requirements for both the nonspot shrimp pot fishery and the existing shrimp pot and trawl fisheries. Key provisions include that a nonspot shrimp pot fishery license can only be issued to individuals who held a similar license or a shrimp trawl license in the previous year, and it limits the number of licenses a person can own to one. Additionally, it allows for the conversion of shrimp trawl licenses to nonspot shrimp pot licenses, which will be permanently retired as trawl licenses.

The bill also includes provisions for designating alternate operators for licenses, allowing for exceptions in cases of medical emergencies. It establishes a framework for the management of nonspot shrimp resources, including the ability for license holders to modify gear for efficient harvesting. The annual fees for the new nonspot shrimp pot fishery license are set at $335 for residents and $720 for non-residents, with an application fee of $105. Overall, the legislation aims to regulate and promote sustainable fishing practices for nonspot shrimp in Puget Sound while ensuring that existing license holders have a pathway to transition to the new fishery.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 77.70.005, 77.70.410, 77.70.420, 77.65.220
Substitute Bill: 77.70.005, 77.70.410, 77.70.420, 77.65.220
Bill as Passed Legislature: 77.70.005, 77.70.410, 77.70.420, 77.65.220
Session Law: 77.70.005, 77.70.410, 77.70.420, 77.65.220