This bill amends existing laws regarding charter boat fishing guides in Louisiana by requiring them to obtain commercial marine insurance instead of liability insurance. Specifically, it modifies the licensing requirements for both saltwater and freshwater charter boat fishing guides, mandating that they possess a valid state charter boat fishing guide license, a captain's license from the U.S. Coast Guard, and proof of commercial marine insurance while operating a vessel. The bill also stipulates that the insurance must be provided by a company with at least an A- rating according to A.M. Best's Key Rating Guide.

Additionally, the bill expands the membership of the Louisiana Finfish Task Force by adding two new members appointed by the governor from lists provided by the Louisiana Charter Boat Association and the Women's Southern Fisheries Alliance. It introduces penalties for violations of the new insurance requirements, including a fine of no less than one thousand dollars for first-time offenders, and establishes stricter operational conditions for repeat offenders, such as requiring the use of a vessel monitoring system.

Statutes affected:
HB661 Original: 56:9(A)(1)
HB661 Engrossed: 56:9(A)(1)
HB661 Enrolled: 56:9(A)(1)
HB661 Act : 56:9(A)(1)