HB 7091

1
A bill to be entitled
2An act relating to fish and wildlife conservation;
3consolidating chapters 370 and 372, F.S., to create
4chapter 379, F.S., entitled "Fish and Wildlife
5Conservation"; creating part I of chapter 379, F.S.,
6relating to general provisions; creating part II of
7chapter 379, F.S., relating to marine life; creating part
8III of chapter 379, F.S., relating to freshwater aquatic
9life; creating part IV of chapter 379, F.S., relating to
10wild animal life; creating part V of chapter 379, F.S.,
11relating to law enforcement; creating part VI of chapter
12379, F.S., relating to licenses for recreation activities;
13creating part VII of chapter 379, F.S., relating to
14nonrecreational licenses; creating part VIII of chapter
15379, F.S., relating to penalties; renumbering, amending,
16creating, and repealing various statutory provisions to
17conform; renumbering and amending ss. 370.021, 370.06,
18370.061, 370.063, 370.16, 370.22, 370.26, 370.028, 370.07,
19370.08, 370.081, 370.11, 370.1107, 370.1121, 370.135,
20370.14, 370.143, 370.1535, 370.1603, 370.31, 370.73,
21372.07, 372.071, 372.0715, 372.0025, 372.023, 372.0725,  
22372.16, 372.26, 372.551, 372.561, 372.562, 372.65, 372.57,
23372.5704, 372.5705, 372.571, 372.5711, 372.5714, 372.5717,
24372.5718, 372.574, 372.58, 372.581, 372.59, 372.651,
25372.653, 372.66, 372.661, 372.662, 372.663, 372.664,
26372.6645, 372.665, 372.6671, 372.6672, 372.6673, 372.6674,
27372.6678, 372.671, 372.673, 372.70, 372.701, 372.7015,
28372.7016, 372.76, 372.761, 372.83, 372.84, 372.85, 372.86,
29372.87, 372.88, 372.921, 372.922, 372.935, 372.988,
30372.99, 372.9901, 372.99021, 372.99022, 372.9903,
31372.9904, 372.9905, and 372.992, F.S.; correcting cross-
32references; conforming provisions to changes made by this
33act; renumbering and amending s. 370.12, F.S.; deleting an
34obsolete provision relating to certain annual use fees;
35correcting cross-references; renumbering and amending s.
36370.13, F.S.; deleting an obsolete provision relating to
37stone crab trap tag fees; correcting cross-references;
38renumbering and amending s. 370.142, F.S.; deleting an
39obsolete provision relating to spiny lobster trap tag
40fees; correcting cross-references; renumbering and
41amending s. 370.151, F.S.; deleting legislative intent
42relating to shrimp beds; conforming provisions relating to
43shrimping license violations; renumbering and amending s.
44372.5701, F.S.; deleting provisions requiring an annual
45legislative appropriation for specified activities and
46programs; correcting cross-references; creating s.
47379.3711, F.S.; establishing an annual license fee for
48private game preserves and farms; providing for payment of
49such fees to the commission; requiring proceeds to be
50deposited in the State Game Trust Fund; creating 379.414,
51F.S.; providing additional civil penalties for violations
52of record requirements by saltwater products dealers;
53requiring fees collected for such violations are deposited
54in the Marine Resources Conservation Trust Fund;
55specifying the use of such funds; amending ss. 72.011,
5697.05831, 125.01, 142.01, 161.053, 201.15, 212.06, 212.08,
57213.053, 215.20, 290.004, 320.08058, 327.02, 327.41,
58327.73, 328.66, 328.72, 328.76, 373.046, 403.41315,
59403.813, 597.010, 777.04, 810.09, 921.0022, and 932.7055,
60F.S.; correcting cross-references to conform to changes
61made by this act; repealing s. 370.0821, F.S., relating to
62use of nets in St. Johns County to conform to changes made
63by this act; repealing s. 370.09, F.S., relating to
64industrial hazards and prohibited oil deposits discharge
65to conform to changes made by this act; repealing s.
66370.1105, F.S., relating to saltwater finfish trap
67regulation to conform to changes made by this act;
68repealing ss. 370.15 and 370.154, F.S., relating to shrimp
69regulations to conform to changes made by this act;
70repealing s. 370.155, F.S., relating to shrimp fishing to
71conform to changes made by this act; repealing 372.001,
72F.S., relating to wildlife definitions to conform to
73changes made by this act; repealing s. 372.0225, F.S.,
74relating to freshwater organisms to conform to changes
75made by this act; repealing s. 372.107, F.S., relating to
76the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Federal Law
77Enforcement Trust Fund to conform to changes made by this
78act; repealing s. 372.27, F.S., relating to the
79prohibition of fishing in Silver Springs and Rainbow
80Springs to conform to changes made by this act; repealing
81s. 372.667, F.S., relating to the unlawful feeding or
82enticement of alligators or crocodiles to conform to
83changes made by this act; repealing s. 372.98, F.S.,
84relating to the possession of nutria to conform to changes
85made by this act; repealing s. 372.981, F.S., relating to
86the regulation of importation of caiman to conform to
87changes made by this act; repealing s. 372.993, F.S.,
88relating to land-based commercial and recreational fishing
89activities to conform to changes made by this act;
90providing an effective date.
91
92     WHEREAS, it is the intent of the Legislature that the
93consolidation of chapters 370 and 372, Florida Statutes, into a
94new chapter 379, Florida Statutes, shall not be construed as
95creating, establishing, or implementing any substantive changes
96to current law in either of the two chapters consolidated, and
97     WHEREAS, it is the intent of the Legislature that the
98consolidation of chapters 370 and 372, Florida Statutes, into a
99new chapter 379, Florida Statutes, shall not be construed as
100expanding any constitutional authority of the Fish and Wildlife
101Conservation Commission or as granting any additional
102legislative authority to the Fish and Wildlife Conservation
103Commission,  NOW, THEREFORE,
104
105Be It Enacted by the Legislature of the State of Florida:
106
107     Section 1.  Chapter 379, Florida Statutes, is created and
108entitled "Fish and Wildlife Conservation."
109     Section 2.  Part I of chapter 379, Florida Statutes,
110consisting of sections 379.101, 379.102, 379.1025, 379.10255,
111379.103, 379.104, 379.105, 379.106, 379.201, 379.202, 379.202,
112379.203, 379.204, 379.205, 379.206, 379.207, 379.208, 379.209,
113379.211, 379.2201, 379.2202, 379.2203, 379.2211, 379.2212,
114379.2213, 379.2221, 379.2222, 379.2223, 379.2224, 379.2225,
115379.223, 379.224, 379.2251, 379.2252, 379.2253, 379.2254,
116379.2255, 379.2256, 379.2257, 379.2258, 379.2259, 379.226,
117379.2271, 379.2272, 379.2281, 379.2282, 379.2291, 379.2292,
118379.230, 379.231, 379.232, 379.233, 379.2341, 379.2342,
119379.2351, 379.2352, 379.2353, 379.236, and 379.237, is created
120to read:
121
PART I
122
GENERAL PROVISIONS
123
124     Section 3.  Section 370.01, Florida Statutes, is renumbered
125as section 379.101, Florida Statutes, and amended to read:
126     379.101 370.01  Definitions.--In construing these statutes,
127where the context does not clearly indicate otherwise, the word,
128phrase, or term:
129     (1)  "Authorization" means a number issued by the Fish and
130Wildlife Conservation Commission, or its authorized agent, which
131serves in lieu of a license or permits and affords the privilege
132purchased for a specified period of time.
133     (2)  "Beaches" and "shores" shall mean the coastal and
134intracoastal shoreline of this state bordering upon the waters
135of the Atlantic Ocean, the Gulf of Mexico, the Straits of
136Florida, and any part thereof, and any other bodies of water
137under the jurisdiction of the State of Florida, between the mean
138high-water line and as far seaward as may be necessary to
139effectively carry out the purposes of this act.
140     (3)  "Closed season" shall be that portion of the year
141wherein the laws or rules of Florida forbid the taking of
142particular species of game or varieties of fish.
143     (4)  "Coastal construction" includes any work or activity
144which is likely to have a material physical effect on existing
145coastal conditions or natural shore processes.
146     (5)  "Commercial harvester" means any person, firm, or
147corporation that takes, harvests, or attempts to take or harvest
148saltwater products for sale or with intent to sell; that is
149operating under or is required to operate under a license or
150permit or authorization issued pursuant to this chapter; that is
151using gear that is prohibited for use in the harvest of
152recreational amounts of any saltwater product being taken or
153harvested; or that is harvesting any saltwater product in an
154amount that is at least two times the recreational bag limit for
155the saltwater product being taken or harvested.
156     (6)  "Commission" shall mean the Fish and Wildlife
157Conservation Commission.
158     (7)  "Common carrier" shall include any person, firm, or
159corporation, who undertakes for hire, as a regular business, to
160transport persons or commodities from place to place offering
161his or her services to all such as may choose to employ the
162common carrier and pay his or her charges.
163     (8)  "Coon oysters" are oysters found growing in bunches
164along the shore between high-water mark and low-water mark.
165     (9)  "Department" shall mean the Department of
166Environmental Protection.
167     (10)  "Erosion control," "beach preservation," and
168"hurricane protection" shall include any activity, work,
169program, project, or other thing deemed necessary by the
170Department of Environmental Protection to effectively preserve,
171protect, restore, rehabilitate, stabilize, and improve the
172beaches and shores of this state, as defined above.
173     (11)  "Exhibit" means to present or display upon request.
174     (12)  "Finfish" means any member of the classes Agnatha,
175Chondrichthyes, or Osteichthyes.
176     (13)  "Fish and game" means all fresh and saltwater fish,
177shellfish, crustacea, sponges, wild birds, and wild animals.
178     (14)  "Fish management area" means a pond, lake, or other
179water within a county, or within several counties, designated to
180improve fishing for public use, and established and specifically
181circumscribed for authorized management by the commission and
182the board of county commissioners of the county in which such
183waters lie, under agreement between the commission and an owner
184with approval by the board of county commissioners or under
185agreement with the board of county commissioners for use of
186public waters in the county in which such waters lie.
187     (15)  "Fish pond" means a body of water that does not occur
188naturally and that has been constructed and is maintained
189primarily for the purpose of fishing.
190     (16)(13)  "Food fish" shall include mullet, trout, redfish,
191sheepshead, pompano, mackerel, bluefish, red snapper, grouper,
192black drum, jack crevalle, and all other fish generally used for
193human consumption.
194     (17)  "Fresh water," except where otherwise provided by
195law, means all lakes, rivers, canals, and other waterways of
196Florida, to such point or points where the fresh and salt waters
197commingle to such an extent as to become unpalatable and unfit
198for human consumption because of the saline content, or to such
199point or points as may be fixed by order of the commission by
200and with the consent of the board of county commissioners of the
201county or counties to be affected by such order. The
202Steinhatchee River shall be considered fresh water from its
203source to mouth.
204     (18)  "Freshwater fish" means all classes of pisces that
205are indigenous to fresh water.
206     (19)  "Fur-bearing animals" means muskrat, mink, raccoon,
207otter, civet cat, skunk, red and gray fox, and opossum.
208     (20)  "Game" means deer, bear, squirrel, rabbits, and,
209where designated by commission rules, wild hogs, ducks, geese,
210rails, coots, gallinules, snipe, woodcock, wild turkeys, grouse,
211pheasants, quail, and doves.
212     (21)(14)  "Guide" shall include any person engaged in the
213business of guiding hunters or hunting parties, fishers or
214fishing parties, for compensation.
215     (22)(15)  "Marine fish" means any saltwater species of
216finfish of the classes Agnatha, Chondrichthyes, and
217Osteichthyes, and marine invertebrates in the classes
218Gastropoda, Bivalvia, and Crustacea, or the phylum
219Echinodermata, but does not include nonliving shells or
220Echinoderms.
221     (23)(16)  "Molest," in connection with any fishing trap or
222its buoy or buoy line, means to touch, bother, disturb, or
223interfere or tamper with, in any manner.
224     (24)(17)  A "natural oyster or clam reef" or "bed" or "bar"
225shall be considered and defined as an area containing not less
226than 100 square yards of the bottom where oysters or clams are
227found in a stratum.
228     (25)  "Nongame" means all species and populations of
229indigenous wild vertebrates and invertebrates in the state that
230are not defined as game.
231     (26)(18)  "Nonresident alien" shall mean those individuals
232from other nations who can provide documentation from the Bureau
233of Citizenship and Immigration Services evidencing permanent
234residency status in the United States. For the purposes of this
235chapter, a "nonresident alien" shall be considered a
236"nonresident."
237     (27)(19)  "Open season" shall be that portion of the year
238wherein the laws of Florida for the preservation of fish and
239game permit the taking of particular species of game or
240varieties of fish.
241     (28)  "Private hunting preserve" includes any area set
242aside by a private individual or concern on which artificially
243propagated game or birds are taken.
244     (29)(20)  "Reef bunch oysters" are oysters found growing on
245the bars or reefs in the open bay and exposed to the air between
246high and low tide.
247     (30)(21)"Resident" or "resident of Florida" means includes:
248     (a)  For purposes of part VII of this chapter, with the
249exception of ss. 379.363, 379.3635, 379.364, 379.3711, 379.3712,
250379.372, 379.373, 379.374, 379.3751, 379.3752, 379.3761,
251379.3762, and 379.377, and for purposes of s. 379.355, citizens
252of the United States who have continuously resided in this
253state, next preceding the making of their application for
254hunting, fishing, or other license, for the following period of
255time, to wit: For 1 year in the state and 6 months in the county
256when applied to all fish and game laws not related to freshwater
257fish and game.
258     (b)  For purposes of part VI of this chapter, with the
259exception of s. 379.355, and for purposes of ss. 379.363,
260379.3635, 379.364, 379.3711, 379.3712, 379.372, 379.373,
261379.374, 379.3751, 379.3752, 379.3761, 379.3762, and 379.377,
262any person who has continually resided in the state for 6 months
263or any member of the United States Armed Forces who is stationed
264in the state.
265     (31)(22)  "Resident alien" shall mean those persons who
266have continuously resided in this state for at least 1 year and
2676 months in the county and can provide documentation from the
268Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services evidencing
269permanent residency status in the United States. For the
270purposes of this chapter, a "resident alien" shall be considered
271a "resident."
272     (32)(23)  "Restricted species" means any species of
273saltwater products which the state by law, or the Fish and
274Wildlife Conservation Commission by rule, has found it necessary
275to so designate. The term includes a species of saltwater
276products designated by the commission as restricted within a
277geographical area or during a particular time period of each
278year. Designation as a restricted species does not confer the
279authority to sell a species pursuant to s. 379.361 370.06 if the
280law or rule prohibits the sale of the species.
281     (33)(24)  "Salt water," except where otherwise provided by
282law, shall be all of the territorial waters of Florida excluding
283all lakes, rivers, canals, and other waterways of Florida from
284such point or points where the fresh and salt waters commingle
285to such an extent as to become unpalatable because of the saline
286content, or from such point or points as may be fixed for
287conservation purposes by the Department of Environmental
288Protection and the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission,
289with the consent and advice of the board of county commissioners
290of the county or counties to be affected.
291     (34)(25)  "Saltwater fish" means:
292     (a)  Any saltwater species of finfish of the classes
293Agnatha, Chondrichthyes, or Osteichthyes and marine
294invertebrates of the classes Gastropoda, Bivalvia, or Crustacea,
295or of the phylum Echinodermata, but does not include nonliving
296shells or echinoderms; and
297     (b)  Shall include All classes of pisces, shellfish,
298sponges, and crustacea indigenous to salt water.
299     (35)(26)  "Saltwater license privileges," except where
300otherwise provided by law, means any license, endorsement,
301certificate, or permit issued pursuant to this chapter.
302     (36)(27)  "Saltwater products" means any species of
303saltwater fish, marine plant, or echinoderm, except shells, and
304salted, cured, canned, or smoked seafood.
305     (37)(28)  "Shellfish" shall include oysters, clams, and
306whelks.
307     (38)  "Take" means taking, attempting to take, pursuing,
308hunting, molesting, capturing, or killing any wildlife or
309freshwater or saltwater fish, or their nests or eggs, by any
310means, whether or not such actions result in obtaining
311possession of such wildlife or freshwater or saltwater fish or
312their nests or eggs.
313     (39)(29)  "Transport" shall include shipping, transporting,
314carrying, importing, exporting, receiving or delivering for
315shipment, transportation or carriage or export.
316     Section 4.  Section 372.01, Florida Statutes, is renumbered
317as section 379.102, Florida Statutes, to read:
318     379.102 372.01  Fish and Wildlife Conservation
319Commission.--
320     (1)  The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission shall
321consist of seven members who shall be appointed by the Governor,
322subject to confirmation by the Senate, for staggered terms of 5
323years.
324     (2)  Members so appointed shall annually select one of
325their members as chair. Such chair may be removed at any time
326for sufficient cause, by the affirmative vote of the majority of
327the members of the commission. In case the said office of chair
328becomes vacant by removal or otherwise, the same may be filled
329for the unexpired term at any time by the commission from its
330members.
331     (3)  Commission members shall receive no compensation for
332their services as such, but shall be reimbursed for travel
333expenses as provided in s. 112.061.
334     Section 5.  Section 372.021, Florida Statutes, is
335renumbered as section 379.1025, Florida Statutes, to read:
336     379.1025 372.021  Powers, duties, and authority of
337commission; rules, regulations, and orders.--The Fish and
338Wildlife Conservation Commission may exercise the powers,
339duties, and authority granted by s. 9, Art. IV of the
340Constitution of Florida, and as otherwise authorized by the
341Legislature by the adoption of rules, regulations, and orders in
342accordance with chapter 120.
343     Section 6.  Section 372.03, Florida Statutes, is renumbered
344as section 379.10255, Florida Statutes, to read:
345     379.10255 372.03  Headquarters of commission.--The Fish and
346Wildlife Conservation Commission is located at the state
347capital, and, when suitable adequate office space cannot be
348provided in the State Capitol Building, or other buildings owned
349by the state, the commission may rent or lease suitable office
350space in Tallahassee. Said commission may also rent or lease
351suitable and adequate space in other cities and towns of the
352state for branch or division offices and headquarters and
353storerooms for equipment and supplies, as the business of the
354commission may require or necessitate, payment for said rented
355or leased premises to be made from the State Game Trust Fund.
356     Section 7.  Section 372.05, Florida Statutes, is renumbered
357as section 379.103, Florida Statutes, to read:
358     379.103 372.05  Duties of executive director.--The
359executive director of the Fish and Wildlife Conservation
360Commission shall:
361     (1)  Keep full and correct minutes of the proceedings of
362said commission at its meetings, which minutes shall be open for
363public inspection.
364     (2)  Purchase such supplies and employ such help and
365assistants as may be reasonably necessary in the performance of
366the executive director's duties.
367     (3)  Have full authority to represent the commission in its
368dealings with other state departments, county commissioners, and
369the federal government.
370     (4)  Appoint, fix salaries of, and at pleasure remove,
371subject to the approval of the commission, assistants and other
372employees who shall have such powers and duties as may be
373assigned to them by the commission or executive director.
374     (5)  Have such other powers and duties as may be prescribed
375by the commission in pursuance of its duties under s. 9, Art. IV
376of the State Constitution.
377     Section 8.  Section 372.002, Florida Statutes, is
378renumbered as section 379.104, Florida Statutes, to read:
379     379.104 372.002  Right to hunt and fish.--The Legislature
380recognizes that hunting, fishing, and the taking of game are a
381valued part of the cultural heritage of Florida and should be
382forever preserved for Floridians. The Legislature further
383recognizes that these activities play an important part in the
384state's economy and in the conservation, preservation, and
385management of the state's natural areas and resources.
386Therefore, the Legislature intends that the citizens of Florida
387have a right to hunt, fish, and take game, subject to the
388regulations and restrictions prescribed by general law and by s.
3899, Art. IV of the State Constitution.
390     Section 9.  Section 372.705, Florida Statutes, is
391renumbered as section 379.105, Florida Statutes, and amended to
392read:
393     379.105 372.705  Harassment of hunters, trappers, or
394fishers.--
395     (1)  A person may not intentionally, within a publicly or
396privately owned wildlife management or fish management area or
397on any state-owned water body:
398     (a)  Interfere with or attempt to prevent the lawful taking
399of fish, game, or nongame animals by another.
400     (b)  Attempt to disturb fish, game, or nongame animals or
401attempt to affect their behavior with the intent to prevent
402their lawful taking by another.
403     (2)  Any person who violates this section commits a Level
404Two violation under s. 379.401 372.83.
405     Section 10.  Section 370.023, Florida Statutes, is
406renumbered as section 379.106, Florida Statutes, to read:
407     379.106 370.023  Administration of commission grant
408programs.--
409     (1)  The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is
410authorized to establish grant programs that are consistent with
411statutory authority and legislative appropriations. The
412commission is further authorized to receive funds from any legal
413source for purposes of matching state dollars or for passing
414through the agency as grants to other entities whether or not
415matching funds or in-kind matches are required.
416     (2)  For any grant program established by the commission,
417the commission shall adopt rules, pursuant to the requirements
418of chapter 120, for each grant program which shall include, but
419are not limited to: the method or methods of payment; the
420supporting documents required before payment will be made; when
421matching funds or in-kind matches are allowed; what moneys,
422services, or other sources and amounts of matching funds or in-
423kind matches will be eligible for use for matching the grant by
424the commission; who is eligible to participate in the program;
425and other provisions that the commission finds necessary to
426achieve program objectives and an accounting for state funds in
427accordance with law and generally accepted accounting
428principles.
429     (3)  The commission is authorized to preaudit or postaudit
430account books and other documentation of a grant recipient to
431assure that grant funds have been used in accordance with the
432terms of the grant and state rules and statutes. When such audit
433reveals that moneys have not been spent in accordance with grant
434requirements, the commission may withhold moneys or recover
435moneys previously paid. A grant recipient will be allowed a
436maximum of 60 days to submit any additional pertinent
437documentation to offset the amount identified as being due the
438commission.
439     Section 11.  Section 372.101, Florida Statutes, is
440renumbered as section 379.201, Florida Statutes, to read:
441     379.201 372.101  Administrative Trust Fund.--
442     (1)  The Administrative Trust Fund is created within the
443Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
444     (2)  The fund is established for use as a depository for
445funds to be used for management activities that are
446commissionwide in nature and funded by indirect cost earnings or
447assessments against trust funds. Moneys to be credited to the
448trust fund include indirect cost reimbursements from grantors,
449administrative assessments against trust funds, interest
450earnings, and other appropriate administrative fees.
451     (3)  In accordance with s. 19(f)(2), Art. III of the State
452Constitution, the Administrative Trust Fund shall, unless
453terminated sooner, be terminated on July 1, 2009. Before its
454scheduled termination, the trust fund shall be reviewed as
455provided in s. 215.3206(1) and (2).
456     Section 12.  Section 372.127, Florida Statutes, is
457renumbered as section 379.202, Florida Statutes, to read:
458     379.202 372.127  Conservation and Recreation Lands Program
459Trust Fund of the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.--
460     (1)  There is created a Conservation and Recreation Lands
461Program Trust Fund within the Fish and Wildlife Conservation
462Commission. The purpose of the trust fund is to provide for the
463management of conservation and recreation lands by the
464commission. Funds may be appropriated to the trust fund from the
465Conservation and Recreation Lands Trust Fund in the Department
466of Environmental Protection, as created by s. 259.032(2), or
467from such other sources as the Legislature may determine.
468     (2)  Notwithstanding the provisions of s. 216.301 and
469pursuant to s. 216.351, any balance in the trust fund at the end
470of any fiscal year shall remain in the trust fund at the end of
471the year and shall be available for carrying out the purposes of
472the trust fund.
473     Section 13.  Section 372.106, Florida Statutes, is
474renumbered as section 379.203, Florida Statutes, and amended to
475read:
476     379.203 372.106  Dedicated License Trust Fund.--
477     (1)  There is established within the Fish and Wildlife
478Conservation Commission the Dedicated License Trust Fund. The
479fund shall be credited with moneys collected pursuant to s.
480379.354 372.57 for 5-year licenses and permits and replacement
4815-year licenses.
482     (2)(a)  One-fifth of the total proceeds from the sale of 5-
483year hunting and freshwater fishing licenses, permits, and
484replacement licenses, and all interest derived therefrom, shall
485be appropriated annually to the State Game Trust Fund.
486     (b)  One-fifth of the total proceeds from the sale of 5-
487year saltwater fishing licenses, permits, and replacement
488licenses, and all interest derived therefrom, shall be
489appropriated annually to the Marine Resources Conservation Trust
490Fund.
491     (3)  The fund shall be exempt from the provisions of s.
492215.20.
493     Section 14.  Section 372.102, Florida Statutes, is
494renumbered as section 379.204, Florida Statutes, to read:
495     379.204 372.102  Federal Grants Trust Fund.--
496     (1)  The Federal Grants Trust Fund is created within the
497Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
498     (2)  The fund is established for use as a depository for
499funds to be used for allowable grant activities funded by
500restricted program revenues. Moneys to be credited to the trust
501fund shall consist of grants and funding from the Federal
502Government, interest earnings, and cash advances from other
503trust funds.
504     (3)  In accordance with s. 19(f)(2), Art. III of the State
505Constitution, the Federal Grants Trust Fund shall, unless
506terminated sooner, be terminated on July 1, 2009. Before its
507scheduled termination, the trust fund shall be reviewed as
508provided in s. 215.3206(1) and (2).
509     Section 15.  Section 372.672, Florida Statutes, is
510renumbered as section 379.205, Florida Statutes, to read:
511     379.205 372.672  Florida Panther Research and Management
512Trust Fund.--
513     (1)  There is established within the Fish and Wildlife
514Conservation Commission the Florida Panther Research and
515Management Trust Fund to be used exclusively for the purposes of
516this section.
517     (2)  Money from the fund shall be spent only for the
518following purposes:
519     (a)  To manage and protect existing Florida panther
520populations by increasing panther food sources where food is a
521limiting factor, determining conflicts between public use and
522panther survival, maintaining sufficient genetic variability in
523existing populations, and undertaking management and enforcement
524activities that protect panther habitat.
525     (b)  To educate the public concerning the value of the
526panther and the necessity for panther management.
527     (c)  To reestablish Florida panthers into areas of suitable
528habitat, where feasible, by assessing the necessity of a captive
529breeding program for purposes of reintroduction of the panthers
530into the suitable habitat; selecting potential sites for
531reintroduction and investigating associated human sociological
532aspects; and assessing the potential for panther habitat
533acquisition.
534     (d)  To promote and market the Florida panther license
535plate authorized under s. 320.08058.
536     (3)  The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is
537authorized to receive donations for deposit into the Florida
538Panther Research and Management Trust Fund.
539     Section 16.  Section 372.103, Florida Statutes, is
540renumbered as section 379.206, Florida Statutes, to read:
541     379.206 372.103  Grants and Donations Trust Fund.--
542     (1)  The Grants and Donations Trust Fund is created within
543the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
544     (2)  The fund is established for use as a depository for
545funds to be used for allowable grant and donor agreement
546activities funded by restricted contractual revenue. Moneys to
547be credited to the trust fund shall consist of grants and
548donations from private and public nonfederal sources, interest
549earnings, and cash advances from other trust funds.
550     (3)  In accordance with s. 19(f)(2), Art. III of the State
551Constitution, the Grants and Donations Trust Fund shall, unless
552terminated sooner, be terminated on July 1, 2009. Before its
553scheduled termination, the trust fund shall be reviewed as
554provided in s. 215.3206(1) and (2).
555     Section 17.  Section 372.105, Florida Statutes, is
556renumbered as section 379.207, Florida Statutes, and amended to
557read:
558     379.207 372.105  Lifetime Fish and Wildlife Trust Fund.--
559     (1)  There is established within the Fish and Wildlife
560Conservation Commission the Lifetime Fish and Wildlife Trust
561Fund to be used for the purpose of supporting fish and wildlife
562conservation programs of the state in accordance with this
563section.
564     (2)  The principal of the fund shall be derived from the
565following:
566     (a)  Proceeds of any gifts, grants, and contributions to
567the state which are specifically designated for inclusion in the
568fund.
569     (b)  Proceeds from the sale of lifetime licenses issued in
570accordance with s. 379.354 372.57.
571     (3)  The fund is declared to constitute a special trust
572derived from a contractual relationship between the state and
573the members of the public whose investments contribute to the
574fund. In recognition of such special trust, the following
575limitations and restrictions are placed on expenditures from the
576funds:
577     (a)  No expenditure or disbursement shall be made from the
578principal of the fund.
579     (b)  The interest income received and accruing from the
580investments of proceeds from the sale of lifetime freshwater
581fishing licenses and lifetime hunting licenses shall be spent in
582furtherance of the commission's management, protection, and
583conservation of wild animal life and freshwater aquatic life as
584set forth in s. 9, Art. IV of the State Constitution and this
585chapter and as otherwise authorized by the Legislature.
586     (c)  The interest income received and accruing from the
587investments of proceeds from the sale of lifetime saltwater
588fishing licenses shall be expended for marine law enforcement,
589marine research, and marine fishery enhancement.
590     (d)  No expenditures or disbursements from the interest
591income derived from the sale of lifetime licenses shall be made
592for any purpose until the respective holders of such licenses
593attain the age of 16 years. The Fish and Wildlife Conservation
594Commission as administrator of the fund shall determine
595actuarially on an annual basis the amounts of interest income
596within the fund which may be disbursed pursuant to this
597paragraph. The director shall cause deposits of proceeds from
598the sale of lifetime licenses to be identifiable by the ages of
599the license recipients.
600     (e)  Any limitations or restrictions specified by the
601donors on the uses of the interest income derived from gifts,
602grants, and voluntary contributions shall be respected but shall
603not be binding.
604     (f)  The fund shall be exempt from the provisions of s.
605215.20.
606     (4)  In the event of a future dissolution or reorganization
607of the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, any state
608agency which succeeds the commission or assumes its
609constitutional or statutory responsibilities shall, through its
610agency head acting ex officio, assume the trusteeship of the
611fund and shall be bound by all the limitations and restrictions
612placed by this section on expenditures from the fund. No repeal
613or modification of this chapter or s. 9, Art. IV of the State
614Constitution shall alter the fundamental purposes to which the
615fund may be applied. No dissolution or reorganization of the
616Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission shall invalidate any
617lifetime license issued in accordance with this section.
618     Section 18.  Section 370.0603, Florida Statutes, is
619renumbered as section 379.208, Florida Statutes, and amended to
620read:
621     379.208 370.0603  Marine Resources Conservation Trust Fund;
622purposes.--
623     (1)  The Marine Resources Conservation Trust Fund within
624the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission shall serve as a
625broad-based depository for funds from various marine-related and
626boating-related activities and shall be administered by the
627commission for the purposes of:
628     (a)  Funding for marine research.
629     (b)  Funding for fishery enhancement, including, but not
630limited to, fishery statistics development, artificial reefs,
631and fish hatcheries.
632     (c)  Funding for marine law enforcement.
633     (d)  Funding for administration of licensing programs for
634recreational fishing, saltwater products sales, and related
635information and education activities.
636     (e)  Funding for the operations of the Fish and Wildlife
637Conservation Commission.
638     (f)  Funding for titling and registration of vessels.
639     (g)  Funding for marine turtle protection, research, and
640recovery activities from revenues that are specifically credited
641to the trust fund for these purposes.
642     (h)  Funding activities for rehabilitation of oyster
643harvesting areas from which special oyster surcharge fees are
644collected, including relaying and transplanting live oysters.
645     (i)  Funding for boating research, boating-related programs
646and activities, and for law enforcement on state waters.
647     (j)  Funding for the stone crab trap reduction program
648under s. 379.365 370.13, the blue crab effort management program
649under s. 379.366 370.135, the spiny lobster trap certificate
650program under s. 379.3671 370.142, and the trap retrieval
651program under s. 379.2424 370.143.
652     (2)  The Marine Resources Conservation Trust Fund shall
653receive the proceeds from:
654     (a)  All license fees collected pursuant to ss. 379.361 and
655379.362 370.06 and 370.07.
656     (b)  All funds collected from the registration of vessels
657and other fees pursuant to s. 328.72.
658     (c)  All fees collected under ss. 379.2424, 379.355,
659379.357, 379.365, 379.3671, and 379.366 370.063, 370.13,
660370.135, 370.142, 370.143, and 372.5704.
661     (d)  All fines and penalties under ss. 379.365, 379.366
662379.3671, and 379.407 370.021, 370.13, 370.135, and 370.142.
663     (e)  Other revenues as provided by law.
664     (3)  Funds provided to the Marine Resources Conservation
665Trust Fund from taxes distributed under s. 201.15(11) shall be
666used for the following purposes:
667     (a)  To reimburse the cost of activities authorized
668pursuant to the Fish and Wildlife Service of the United States
669Department of the Interior. Such facilities must be involved in
670the actual rescue and full-time acute care veterinarian-based
671rehabilitation of manatees. The cost of activities includes, but
672is not limited to, costs associated with expansion, capital
673outlay, repair, maintenance, and operation related to the
674rescue, treatment, stabilization, maintenance, release, and
675monitoring of manatees. Moneys distributed through the
676contractual agreement to each facility for manatee
677rehabilitation must be proportionate to the number of manatees
678under acute care rehabilitation; the number of maintenance days
679medically necessary in the facility; and the number released
680during the previous fiscal year. The commission may set a cap on
681the total amount reimbursed per manatee per year.
682     (b)  For training on the care, treatment, and
683rehabilitation of marine mammals at the Whitney Laboratory and
684the College of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Florida.
685     (c)  For program administration costs of the agency.
686     (d)  Funds not distributed in any 1 fiscal year must be
687carried over for distribution in subsequent years.
688     (4)  Funds transferred to the Marine Resources Conservation
689Trust Fund from the Fuel Tax Collection Trust Fund pursuant to
690s. 206.606 shall be used for the following purposes:
691     (a)  To provide additional water-related law enforcement
692positions within the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
693primarily for the purpose of enforcing laws designed to protect
694manatee populations. Law enforcement positions funded under this
695provision shall be assigned to counties having the highest
696incidence of manatee deaths and injuries.
697     (b)  For the placement of uniform waterway markers on state
698waters.
699     (c)  To provide funding for construction and maintenance of
700publicly owned boat ramps, piers, and docks, directly and
701through grants to counties and municipalities.
702     (d)  To implement and administer programs related to
703boating safety and education, manatee technical avoidance
704technology, and economic development initiatives to promote
705boating in the state, including competitive grants programs as
706provided in s. 327.47.
707     (e)  For other activities of the Boating and Waterways
708Section such as coordinating the submission of state comments on
709boating-related events.
710
711Funds not used in one fiscal year must be carried over for use
712in subsequent years.
713     Section 19.  Section 372.991, Florida Statutes, is
714renumbered as section 379.209, Florida Statutes, to read:
715     379.209 372.991  Nongame Wildlife Trust Fund.--
716     (1)  The Legislature recognizes the value of maintaining
717ecologically healthy and stable populations of a wide diversity
718of fish and wildlife species and recognizes the need for
719monitoring, research, management, and public awareness of all
720wildlife species in order to guarantee that self-sustaining
721populations be conserved. The Legislature further recognizes
722that research and management for game species traditionally have
723been supported by licenses and fees collected by the Fish and
724Wildlife Conservation Commission for consumptive uses of
725wildlife and that no such support mechanism is available for
726species not commonly pursued for sport or profit. It is the
727intent of the Legislature that the funds provided herein be
728spent to identify and meet the needs of nongame wildlife as a
729first priority with the ultimate goal of establishing an
730integrated approach to the management and conservation of all
731native fish, wildlife, and plants.
732     (2)(a)  There is established within the Fish and Wildlife
733Conservation Commission the Nongame Wildlife Trust Fund. The
734fund shall be credited with moneys collected pursuant to ss.
735319.32(3) and 320.02(8). Additional funds may be provided from
736legislative appropriations and by donations from interested
737individuals and organizations. The commission shall designate an
738identifiable unit to administer the trust fund.
739     (b)  Proceeds from the trust fund shall be used for the
740following purposes:
741     1.  Documentation of population trends of nongame wildlife
742and assessment of wildlife habitat, in coordination with the
743database of Florida natural areas inventory.
744     2.  Establishment of effective conservation, management,
745and regulatory programs for nongame wildlife of the state.
746     3.  Public education programs.
747     (3)  The commission may enter into cooperative agreements
748or memoranda of understanding with related agencies to
749coordinate nongame programs.
750     Section 20.  Section 372.09, Florida Statutes, is
751renumbered as section 379.211, Florida Statutes, to read:
752     379.211 372.09  State Game Trust Fund.--The funds resulting
753from the operation of the commission and from the administration
754of the laws and regulations pertaining to birds, game, fur-
755bearing animals, freshwater fish, reptiles, and amphibians,
756together with any other funds specifically provided for such
757purposes shall constitute the State Game Trust Fund and shall be
758used by the commission as it shall deem fit in carrying out the
759provisions hereof and for no other purposes, except that annual
760use fees deposited into the trust fund from the sale of the
761Largemouth Bass license plate may be expended for the purposes
762provided under s. 320.08058(18). The commission may not obligate
763itself beyond the current resources of the State Game Trust Fund
764unless specifically so authorized by the Legislature.
765     Section 21.  Section 372.074, Florida Statutes, is
766renumbered as section 379.212, Florida Statutes, to read:
767     379.212 372.074  Fish and Wildlife Habitat Program.--
768     (1)(a)  There is established within the Fish and Wildlife
769Conservation Commission the Fish and Wildlife Habitat Program
770for the purpose of acquiring, assisting other agencies or local
771governments in acquiring, or managing lands important to the
772conservation of fish and wildlife.
773     (b)  The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission or its
774designee shall manage such lands for the primary purpose of
775maintaining and enhancing their habitat value for fish and
776wildlife. Other uses may be allowed that are not contrary to
777this purpose.
778     (c)  Where acquisition pursuant to this section will result
779in state ownership of land, title shall be vested in the Board
780of Trustees of the Internal Improvement Trust Fund as required
781in chapter 253. Land acquisition pursuant to this section shall
782be voluntary, negotiated acquisition and, where title is to be
783vested in the Board of Trustees of the Internal Improvement
784Trust Fund, is subject to the acquisition procedures of s.
785253.025.
786     (d)  Acquisition costs shall include purchase prices and
787costs and fees associated with title work, surveys, and
788appraisals required to complete an acquisition.
789     (2)  Moneys which may be deposited into the Land
790Acquisition Trust Fund for the purposes of this section may
791include, but not be limited to, donations, grants, development-
792of-regional-impact wildlife mitigation contributions, or
793legislative appropriations. Preservation 2000 acquisition moneys
794and Conservation and Recreation Lands management moneys shall
795not be deposited into this fund.
796     Section 22.  Section 372.5701, Florida Statutes, is
797renumbered as section 379.2201, Florida Statutes, and amended to
798read:
799     379.2201 372.5701  Deposit of license fees; allocation of
800federal funds.--
801     (1)  Except as provided in ss. 379.203 and 379.207 372.105
802and 372.106, all saltwater license and permit fees collected
803pursuant to s. 379.354 372.57 shall be deposited into the Marine
804Resources Conservation Trust Fund, to be used as follows:
805     (a)  Not more than 7.5 percent of the total fees collected
806shall be used for administration of the licensing program and
807for information and education.
808     (b)  Not less than 30 percent of the total fees collected
809shall be used for law enforcement.
810     (c)  Not less than 32.5 percent of the total fees collected
811shall be used for marine research and management.
812     (d)  Not less than 30 percent of the total fees collected,
813for fishery enhancement, including, but not limited to, fishery
814statistics development, artificial reefs, and fish hatcheries.
815     (2)  The proceeds from recreational saltwater fishing
816license fees paid by fishers shall only be appropriated to the
817commission.
818     (3)  Funds available from the Wallop-Breaux Aquatic
819Resources Trust Fund shall be distributed by the commission
820between freshwater fisheries management and research and marine
821fisheries management and research in proportion to the numbers
822of resident fresh and saltwater anglers as determined by the
823most current data on license sales. Unless otherwise provided by
824federal law, the commission, at a minimum, shall provide the
825following:
826     (a)  Not less than 5 percent or more than 10 percent of the
827funds allocated to the commission shall be expended for an
828aquatic resources education program; and
829     (b)  Not less than 10 percent of the funds allocated to the
830commission shall be expended for acquisition, development,
831renovation, or improvement of boating facilities.
832     Section 23.  Section 372.5702, Florida Statutes, is
833renumbered as section 379.2202, Florida Statutes, and amended to
834read:
835     379.2202 372.5702  Expenditure of funds.--Any moneys
836available pursuant to s. 379.2201(1)(c) 372.5701(1)(c) may be
837expended by the commission within Florida through grants and
838contracts for research with research institutions including but
839not limited to: Florida Sea Grant; Florida Marine Resources
840Council; Harbour Branch Oceanographic Institute; Technological
841Research and Development Authority; Fish and Wildlife Research
842Institute of the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission; Mote
843Marine Laboratory; Marine Resources Development Foundation;
844Florida Institute of Oceanography; Rosentiel School of Marine
845and Atmospheric Science; and Smithsonian Marine Station at Ft.
846Pierce.
847     Section 24.  Section 372.72, Florida Statutes, is
848renumbered as section 379.2203, Florida Statutes, and amended to
849read:
850     379.2203 372.72  Disposition of fines, penalties, and
851forfeitures.--
852     (1)  All moneys collected from fines, penalties, proceeds
853from unclaimed bonds, or forfeitures of bail of persons
854convicted under this chapter shall be deposited in the fine and
855forfeiture fund established pursuant to s. 142.01 where such
856convictions are had, except for the disposition of moneys as
857provided in subsection (2).
858     (2)  All moneys collected from fines, penalties, or
859forfeitures of bail of persons convicted of violations of rules,
860regulations, or orders of the Fish and Wildlife Conservation
861Commission concerning endangered or threatened species or of
862violation of s. 379.3014, s. 379.409, or s. 379.4115 s. 372.662,
863s. 372.663, s. 372.667, or s. 372.671 shall be remitted by the
864clerk of the court to the Department of Revenue to be deposited
865in the Nongame Wildlife Trust Fund.
866     Section 25.  Section 372.5712, Florida Statutes, is
867renumbered as section 379.2211, Florida Statutes, and amended to
868read:
869     379.2211 372.5712  Florida waterfowl permit revenues.--
870     (1)  The commission shall expend the revenues generated
871from the sale of the Florida waterfowl permit as provided in s.
872379.354(8)(a) 372.57(8)(a) or that pro rata portion of any
873license that includes waterfowl hunting privileges, as provided
874in s. 379.354(4)(h), (i), and (j) and (9)(a)3. 372.57(4)(h),
875(i), and (j) and (9)(a)3. as follows: A maximum of 5 percent of
876the gross revenues shall be expended for administrative costs; a
877maximum of 25 percent of the gross revenues shall be expended
878for waterfowl research approved by the commission; and a maximum
879of 70 percent of the gross revenues shall be expended for
880projects approved by the commission, in consultation with the
881Waterfowl Advisory Council, for the purpose of protecting and
882propagating migratory waterfowl and for the development,
883restoration, maintenance, and preservation of wetlands within
884the state.
885     (2)  The intent of this section is to expand waterfowl
886research and management and increase waterfowl populations in
887the state without detracting from other programs. The commission
888shall prepare an annual report documenting the use of funds
889generated under the provisions of this section, to be submitted
890to the Governor, the Speaker of the House of Representatives,
891and the President of the Senate on or before September 1 of each
892year.
893     Section 26.  Section 372.5715, Florida Statutes, is
894renumbered as section 379.2212, Florida Statutes, and amended to
895read:
896     379.2212 372.5715  Florida wild turkey permit revenues.--
897     (1)  The commission shall expend the revenues generated
898from the sale of the turkey permit as provided for in s.
899379.354(8)(b) 372.57(8)(b) or that pro rata portion of any
900license that includes turkey hunting privileges as provided for
901in s. 379.354(4)(h), (i), and (j) 372.57(4)(h), (i), and (j) for
902research and management of wild turkeys.
903     (2)  The intent of this section is to expand wild turkey
904research and management and to increase wild turkey populations
905in the state without detracting from other programs. The
906commission shall prepare an annual report documenting the use of
907funds generated under the provisions of this section, to be
908submitted to the Governor, the Speaker of the House of
909Representatives, and the President of the Senate on or before
910September 1 of each year.
911     Section 27.  Section 372.573, Florida Statutes, is
912renumbered as section 379.2213, Florida Statutes, and amended to
913read:
914     379.2213 372.573  Management area permit revenues.--The
915commission shall expend the revenue generated from the sale of
916the management area permit as provided for in s. 379.354(8)(g)
917372.57(8)(g) or that pro rata portion of any license that
918includes management area privileges as provided for in s.
919379.354(4)(h), (i), and (j) 372.57(4)(h), (i), and (j) for the
920lease, management, and protection of lands for public hunting,
921fishing, and other outdoor recreation.
922     Section 28.  Section 372.12, Florida Statutes, is
923renumbered as section 379.2222, Florida Statutes, to read:
924     379.2222 372.12  Acquisition of state game lands.--The Fish
925and Wildlife Conservation Commission, with the approval of the
926Governor, may acquire, in the name of the state, lands and
927waters suitable for the protection and propagation of game,
928fish, nongame birds, or fur-bearing animals, or for hunting
929purposes, game farms, by purchase, lease, gift or otherwise to
930be known as state game lands. The said commission may erect such
931buildings and fences as may be deemed necessary to properly
932maintain and protect such lands, or for propagation of game,
933nongame birds, freshwater fish, or fur-bearing animals. The
934title of land acquired by purchase, lease, gift or otherwise,
935shall be approved by the Department of Legal Affairs. The deed
936to such lands shall be deposited as are deeds to other state
937lands. No property acquired under this section shall be exempt
938from state, county, or district taxation.
939     Section 29.  Section 372.121, Florida Statutes, is
940renumbered as section 379.2223, Florida Statutes, to read:
941     379.2223 372.121  Control and management of state game
942lands.--
943     (1)  The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is
944authorized to make, adopt, promulgate, amend, repeal, and
945enforce all reasonable rules and regulations necessary for the
946protection, control, operation, management, or development of
947lands or waters owned by, leased by, or otherwise assigned to,
948the commission for fish or wildlife management purposes,
949including but not being limited to the right of ingress and
950egress. Before any such rule or regulation is adopted, other
951than one relating to wild animal life, marine life, or
952freshwater aquatic life, the commission shall obtain the consent
953and agreement, in writing, of the owner, in the case of
954privately owned lands or waters, or the owner or primary
955custodian, in the case of public lands or waters.
956     (2)  Any person violating or otherwise failing to comply
957with any rule or regulation so adopted commits a misdemeanor of
958the second degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s.
959775.083.
960     Section 30.  Section 372.19, Florida Statutes, is
961renumbered as section 379.2224, Florida Statutes, to read:
962     379.2224 372.19  Preserves, refuges, etc., not tax-
963exempt.--No property acquired by purchase, lease, gift, contract
964to purchase or lease, or otherwise, under the provisions of this
965chapter, as state game lands, or any private lands used as game
966refuges, shooting grounds, privileges, hatcheries or breeding
967grounds for fish, game, birds or fur-bearing animals, except
968state-owned lands being used for the protection of game, fish or
969fur-bearing animals under the provisions of this chapter, shall
970be exempt from state, county or district taxation. Any contract,
971lease, gift or purchase of land for such purposes which attempts
972to exempt or partially exempt such property from taxation shall
973be null and void and of no effect.
974     Section 31.  Section 372.025, Florida Statutes, is
975renumbered as section 379.2225, Florida Statutes, to read:
976     379.2225 372.025  Everglades recreational sites;
977definitions.--
978     (1)  PURPOSE.--It is the intent of the Legislature to
979provide for the development and management of recreational sites
980in the water conservation areas of the Florida Everglades when
981such development:
982     (a)  Can be accomplished without endangering the water
983quality and quantity of supply and where environmental impact
984will be minimal.
985     (b)  Is located on the exterior fringes of the Everglades
986to discourage extensive uncontrolled use of the interior
987regions.
988     (c)  Is located where convenient access is possible for the
989millions of Floridians living in urban areas.
990     (d)  Offers recreational potential for nature trails, bird
991study, picnic areas, boating, fishing, hunting, and target
992shooting.
993     (e)  Is located where proper management and law enforcement
994can be provided.
995     (2)  DEFINITIONS.--As used in this section:
996     (a)  "Commission" means the Fish and Wildlife Conservation
997Commission.
998     (b)  "Indian reservations" means lands as designated by
999chapter 285.
1000     (c)  "Development of recreational sites" means any
1001improvements to existing facilities or sites and also such new
1002selection and improvements as are needed for the various
1003recreational activities as herein provided.
1004     (3)  RECREATIONAL SITES.--The Fish and Wildlife
1005Conservation Commission is directed to develop, manage, and
1006enforce laws on certain recreational sites in the water
1007conservation areas of the Everglades from funds to be
1008appropriated by the Legislature.
1009     (4)  No recreational site will be developed on any Indian
1010reservations as created by chapter 285 without first obtaining
1011written approval for such development from the Indians of the
1012particular reservation lands affected.
1013     Section 32.  Section 372.0215, Florida Statutes, is
1014renumbered as section 379.223, Florida Statutes, to read:
1015     379.223 372.0215  Citizen support organizations; use of
1016state property; audit.--
1017     (1)  The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission may
1018authorize the establishment of citizen support organizations to
1019provide assistance, funding, and promotional support for the
1020programs of the commission. For purposes of this section, the
1021term "citizen support organization" means an organization which:
1022     (a)  Is a corporation not for profit incorporated pursuant
1023to the provisions of chapter 617 and approved by the Department
1024of State.
1025     (b)  Is organized and operated to conduct programs and
1026activities; raise funds; request and receive grants, gifts, and
1027bequests of money; acquire, receive, hold, invest, and
1028administer in its own name securities, funds, or real or
1029personal property; and make expenditures for the benefit of the
1030commission or an individual program unit of the commission;
1031except that such organization may not receive funds from the
1032commission or the Fish and Wildlife Research Institute by grant,
1033gift, or contract unless specifically authorized by the
1034Legislature.
1035     (c)  The commission has determined acts in a manner that is
1036consistent with the goals of the commission and the best
1037interests of the state.
1038     (d)  Is approved in writing by the commission to operate
1039for the benefit of the commission. Such approval must be stated
1040in a letter of agreement from the executive director of the
1041commission.
1042     (2)(a)  The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission may
1043permit a citizen support organization to use commission
1044property, facilities, and personnel free of charge. A citizen
1045support organization may use commission property, facilities,
1046and personnel if such use is consistent with the approved
1047purpose of that citizen support organization and if such use
1048does not unreasonably interfere with the general public's use of
1049commission property, facilities, and personnel for established
1050purposes.
1051     (b)  The commission may prescribe conditions upon the use
1052by a citizen support organization of commission property,
1053facilities, or personnel.
1054     (c)  The commission may not permit the use of any property,
1055facilities, or personnel of the state by a citizen support
1056organization that does not provide equal membership and
1057employment opportunities to all persons regardless of race,
1058color, national origin, religion, sex, or age.
1059     (3)  Each citizen support organization shall provide for an
1060annual financial audit in accordance with s. 215.981. The
1061identity of a donor or prospective donor to a citizen support
1062organization who desires to remain anonymous and all information
1063identifying such donor or prospective donor are confidential and
1064exempt from the provisions of s. 119.07(1) and s. 24(a), Art. I
1065of the State Constitution. Such anonymity shall be maintained in
1066the auditor's report.
1067     Section 33.  Section 370.06091, Florida Statutes, is
1068renumbered as section 379.224, Florida Statutes, to read:
1069     379.224 370.06091  Memorandum of agreement relating to Fish
1070and Wildlife Research Institute.--A memorandum of agreement will
1071be developed between the Department of Environmental Protection
1072and the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission which will
1073detail the responsibilities of the Fish and Wildlife Research
1074Institute to the department, to include, at a minimum, the
1075following services:
1076     (1)  Environmental monitoring and assessment.
1077     (2)  Restoration research and development of restoration
1078technology.
1079     (3)  Technical support and response for oil spills, ship
1080groundings, major marine species die-offs, hazardous spills, and
1081natural disasters.
1082     Section 34.  Section 370.103, Florida Statutes, is
1083renumbered as section 379.2251, Florida Statutes, to read:
1084     379.2251 370.103  Agreements with Federal Government for
1085the preservation of saltwater fisheries; authority of
1086commission.--The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is
1087authorized and empowered to enter into cooperative agreements
1088with the Federal Government or agencies thereof for the purpose
1089of preserving saltwater fisheries within and without state
1090waters and for the purpose of protecting against overfishing,
1091waste, depletion, or any abuse whatsoever. Such authority
1092includes the authority to enter into cooperative agreements
1093whereby officers of the Fish and Wildlife Conservation
1094Commission are empowered to enforce federal statutes and rules
1095pertaining to fisheries management. When differences between
1096state and federal laws occur, state laws shall take precedence.
1097     Section 35.  Section 370.18, Florida Statutes, is
1098renumbered as section 379.2252, Florida Statutes, to read:
1099     379.2252 370.18  Compacts and agreements; generally.--The
1100Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission may enter into
1101agreements of reciprocity with the fish commissioners or other
1102departments or other proper officials of other states, whereby
1103the citizens of the state may be permitted to take or catch
1104shrimp or prawn from the waters under the jurisdiction of such
1105other states, upon similar agreements to allow such nonresidents
1106or aliens to fish for or catch seafood products within the
1107jurisdiction of the state regardless of residence.
1108     Section 36.  Section 370.19, Florida Statutes, is
1109renumbered as section 379.2253, Florida Statutes, to read:
1110     379.2253 370.19  Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Compact;
1111implementing legislation.--
1112     (1)  FORM.--The Governor of this state is hereby authorized
1113and directed to execute a compact on behalf of the State of
1114Florida with any one or more of the States of Maine, New
1115Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York,
1116New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, South
1117Carolina, and Georgia, and with such other states as may enter
1118into the compact, legally joining therein in the form
1119substantially as follows:
1120
1121
ATLANTIC STATES MARINE FISHERIES
1122
COMPACT
1123
1124     The contracting states solemnly agree:
1125
1126
ARTICLE I
1127
1128     The purpose of this compact is to promote the better
1129utilization of the fisheries, marine, shell, and anadromous, of
1130the Atlantic seaboard by the development of a joint program for
1131the promotion and protection of such fisheries, and by the
1132prevention of the physical waste of the fisheries from any
1133cause. It is not the purpose of this compact to authorize the
1134states joining herein to limit the production of fish or fish
1135products for the purpose of establishing or fixing the price
1136thereof, or creating and perpetuating a monopoly.
1137
1138
ARTICLE II
1139
1140     This agreement shall become operative immediately as to
1141those states executing it whenever any two or more of the States
1142of Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island,
1143Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia,
1144North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia and Florida have
1145executed it in the form that is in accordance with the laws of
1146the executing state and the Congress has given its consent. Any
1147state contiguous with any of the aforementioned states and
1148riparian upon waters frequented by anadromous fish, flowing into
1149waters under the jurisdiction of any of the aforementioned
1150states, may become a party hereto as hereinafter provided.
1151
1152
ARTICLE III
1153
1154     Each state joining herein shall appoint three
1155representatives to a commission hereby constituted and
1156designated as the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission.
1157One shall be the executive officer of the administrative agency
1158of such state charged with the conservation of the fisheries
1159resources to which this compact pertains or, if there be more
1160than one officer or agency, the official of that state named by
1161the governor thereof. The second shall be a member of the
1162legislature of such state designated by such legislature or, in
1163the absence of such designation, such legislator shall be
1164designated by the governor thereof, provided that if it is
1165constitutionally impossible to appoint a legislator as a
1166commissioner from such state, the second member shall be
1167appointed in such manner as is established by law. The third
1168shall be a citizen who shall have a knowledge of and interest in
1169the marine fisheries problem to be appointed by the governor.
1170This commission shall be a body corporate with the powers and
1171duties set forth herein.
1172
1173
ARTICLE IV
1174
1175     The duty of the said commission shall be to make inquiry
1176and ascertain from time to time such methods, practices,
1177circumstances and conditions as may be disclosed for bringing
1178about the conservation and the prevention of the depletion and
1179physical waste of the fisheries, marine, shell and anadromous,
1180of the Atlantic seaboard. The commission shall have power to
1181recommend the coordination of the exercise of the police powers
1182of the several states within their respective jurisdictions to
1183promote the preservation of those fisheries and their protection
1184against overfishing, waste, depletion or any abuse whatsoever
1185and to assure a continuing yield from the fisheries resources of
1186the aforementioned states.
1187     To that end the commission shall draft and, after
1188consultation with the advisory committee hereinafter authorized,
1189recommend to the governors and legislatures of the various
1190signatory states legislation dealing with the conservation of
1191the marine, shell and anadromous fisheries of the Atlantic
1192seaboard. The commission shall, more than one month prior to any
1193regular meeting of the legislature in any signatory state,
1194present to the governor of the state its recommendations
1195relating to enactments to be made by the legislature of that
1196state in furthering the intents and purposes of this compact.
1197     The commission shall consult with and advise the pertinent
1198administrative agencies in the states party hereto with regard
1199to problems connected with the fisheries and recommend the
1200adoption of such regulations as it deems advisable.
1201     The commission shall have power to recommend to the states
1202party hereto the stocking of the waters of such states with fish
1203and fish eggs or joint stocking by some or all of the states
1204party hereto and when two or more of the states shall jointly
1205stock waters the commission shall act as the coordinating agency
1206for such stocking.
1207
1208
ARTICLE V
1209
1210     The commission shall elect from its number a chair and a
1211vice chair and shall appoint and at its pleasure remove or
1212discharge such officers and employees as may be required to
1213carry the provisions of this compact into effect and shall fix
1214and determine their duties, qualifications and compensation.
1215Said commission shall adopt rules and regulations for the
1216conduct of its business. It may establish and maintain one or
1217more offices for the transaction of its business and may meet at
1218any time or place but must meet at least once a year.
1219
1220
ARTICLE VI
1221
1222     No action shall be taken by the commission in regard to its
1223general affairs except by the affirmative vote of a majority of
1224the whole number of compacting states present at any meeting. No
1225recommendation shall be made by the commission in regard to any
1226species of fish except by the affirmative vote of a majority of
1227the compacting states which have an interest in such species.
1228The commission shall define what shall be an interest.
1229
1230
ARTICLE VII
1231
1232     The Fish and Wildlife Service of the Department of the
1233Interior of the Government of the United States shall act as the
1234primary research agency of the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries
1235Commission cooperating with the research agencies in each state
1236for that purpose. Representatives of the said Fish and Wildlife
1237Service shall attend the meetings of the commission.
1238     An advisory committee to be representative of the
1239commercial fishers and the saltwater anglers and such other
1240interests of each state as the commission deems advisable shall
1241be established by the commission as soon as practicable for the
1242purpose of advising the commission upon such recommendations as
1243it may desire to make.
1244
1245
ARTICLE VIII
1246
1247     When any state other than those named specifically in
1248Article II of this compact shall become a party thereto for the
1249purpose of conserving its anadromous fish in accordance with the
1250provisions of Article II the participation of such state in the
1251action of the commission shall be limited to such species of
1252anadromous fish.
1253
1254
ARTICLE IX
1255
1256     Nothing in this compact shall be construed to limit the
1257powers of any signatory state or to repeal or prevent the
1258enactment of any legislation or the enforcement of any
1259requirement by any signatory state imposing additional
1260conditions to conserve its fisheries.
1261
1262
ARTICLE X
1263
1264     Continued absence of representation or of any
1265representative on the commission from any state party hereto
1266shall be brought to the attention of the governor thereof.
1267
1268
ARTICLE XI
1269
1270     The states party hereto agree to make annual appropriations
1271to the support of the commission in proportion to the primary
1272market value of the products of their fisheries, exclusive of
1273cod and haddock, as recorded in the most recent published
1274reports of the Fish and Wildlife Service of the United States
1275Department of the Interior, provided no state shall contribute
1276less than $200 per annum and the annual contribution of each
1277state above the minimum shall be figured to the nearest $100.
1278     The compacting states agree to appropriate initially the
1279annual amounts scheduled below, which amounts are calculated in
1280the manner set forth herein, on the basis of the catch record of
12811938. Subsequent budgets shall be recommended by a majority of
1282the commission and the cost thereof allocated equitably among
1283the states in accordance with their respective interests and
1284submitted to the compacting states.
1285
1286
Schedule of Initial Annual
1287
State Contributions
1288     Maine..................................................$700
1289     New Hampshire...........................................200
1290     Massachusetts.........................................2,300
1291     Rhode Island............................................300
1292     Connecticut.............................................400
1293     New York..............................................1,300
1294     New Jersey..............................................800
1295     Delaware................................................200
1296     Maryland................................................700
1297     Virginia..............................................1,300
1298     North Carolina..........................................600
1299     South Carolina..........................................200
1300     Georgia.................................................200
1301     Florida...............................................1,500
1302
1303
ARTICLE XII
1304
1305     This compact shall continue in force and remain binding
1306upon each compacting state until renounced by it. Renunciation
1307of this compact must be preceded by sending 6 months' notice in
1308writing of intention to withdraw from the compact to the other
1309states party hereto.
1310     (2)  COMMISSIONERS; APPOINTMENT AND REMOVAL.--In pursuance
1311of Article III of said compact there shall be three members
1312(hereinafter called commissioners) of the Atlantic States Marine
1313Fisheries Commission (hereinafter called commission) from this
1314state. The first commissioner from this state shall be the
1315Executive Director of the Fish and Wildlife Conservation
1316Commission, ex officio, and the term of any such ex officio
1317commissioner shall terminate at the time he or she ceases to
1318hold said office of Executive Director of the Fish and Wildlife
1319Conservation Commission, and his or her successor as
1320commissioner shall be his or her successor as executive
1321director. The second commissioner from this state shall be a
1322legislator appointed on a rotating basis by the President of the
1323Senate or the Speaker of the House of Representatives, beginning
1324with the appointment of a member of the Senate, and the term of
1325any such commissioner shall terminate at the time he or she
1326ceases to hold said legislative office. The Governor (subject to
1327confirmation by the Senate), shall appoint a citizen as a third
1328commissioner who shall have a knowledge of, and interest in, the
1329marine fisheries problem. The term of said commissioner shall be
13303 years and the commissioner shall hold office until a successor
1331shall be appointed and qualified. Vacancies occurring in the
1332office of such commissioner from any reason or cause shall be
1333filled by appointment by the Governor (subject to confirmation
1334by the Senate), for the unexpired term. The Executive Director
1335of the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission as ex officio
1336commissioner may delegate, from time to time, to any deputy or
1337other subordinate in his or her department or office, the power
1338to be present and participate, including voting, as his or her
1339representative or substitute at any meeting of or hearing by or
1340other proceeding of the commission. The terms of each of the
1341initial three members shall begin at the date of the appointment
1342of the appointive commissioner, provided the said compact shall
1343then have gone into effect in accordance with Article II of the
1344compact; otherwise, they shall begin upon the date upon which
1345said compact shall become effective in accordance with said
1346Article II. Any commissioner may be removed from office by the
1347Governor upon charges and after a hearing.
1348     (3)  POWERS OF COMMISSION AND COMMISSIONERS.--There is
1349hereby granted to the commission and the commissioners thereof
1350all the powers provided for in the said compact and all the
1351powers necessary or incidental to the carrying out of said
1352compact in every particular. All officers of the State of
1353Florida are hereby authorized and directed to do all things
1354falling within their respective provinces and jurisdiction
1355necessary or incidental to the carrying out of said compact in
1356every particular; it being hereby declared to be the policy of
1357the State of Florida to perform and carry out the said compact
1358and to accomplish the purposes thereof. All officers, bureaus,
1359departments and persons of and in the state government or
1360administration of the State of Florida are hereby authorized and
1361directed at convenient times and upon request of the said
1362commission to furnish the said commission with information and
1363data possessed by them or any of them and to aid said commission
1364by loan of personnel or other means lying within their legal
1365rights respectively.
1366     (4)  POWERS OF COMMISSION SUPPLEMENTAL.--Any powers herein
1367granted to the commission shall be regarded as in aid of and
1368supplemental to and in no case a limitation upon any of the
1369powers vested in said commission by other laws of the State of
1370Florida or by the laws of the States of Maine, New Hampshire,
1371Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, New York, New Jersey,
1372Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina,
1373Georgia and Florida or by the Congress or the terms of said
1374compact.
1375     (5)  ACCOUNTS TO BE KEPT BY COMMISSION; EXAMINATION.--
1376     (a)  The commission shall keep accurate accounts of all
1377receipts and disbursements and shall report to the Governor and
1378the Legislature of the State of Florida on or before the 10th
1379day of December in each year, setting forth in detail the
1380transactions conducted by it during the 12 months preceding
1381December 1 of that year and shall make recommendations for any
1382legislative action deemed by it advisable, including amendments
1383to the statutes of the State of Florida which may be necessary
1384to carry out the intent and purposes of the compact between the
1385signatory states.
1386     (b)  The Department of Financial Services is authorized and
1387empowered from time to time to examine the accounts and books of
1388the commission, including its receipts, disbursements and such
1389other items referring to its financial standing as such
1390department deems proper and to report the results of such
1391examination to the governor of such state.
1392     (6)  APPROPRIATION FOR EXPENSES OF COMMISSION.--The sum of
1393$600, annually, or so much thereof as may be necessary, is
1394hereby appropriated out of any moneys in the State Treasury not
1395otherwise appropriated, for the expenses of the commission
1396created by the compact authorized by this law. The moneys hereby
1397appropriated shall be paid out of the State Treasury on the
1398audit and warrant of the Chief Financial Officer upon vouchers
1399certified by the chair of the commission in the manner
1400prescribed by law.
1401     Section 37.  Section 370.20, Florida Statutes, is
1402renumbered as section 379.2254, Florida Statutes, to read:
1403     379.2254 370.20  Gulf States Marine Fisheries Compact;
1404implementing legislation.--
1405     (1)  FORM.--The Governor of this state is hereby authorized
1406and directed to execute the compact on behalf of the State of
1407Florida with any one or more of the States of Alabama,
1408Mississippi, Louisiana and Texas, and with such other state as
1409may enter into a compact, legal joining therein in the form
1410substantially as follows:
1411
1412
GULF STATES MARINE FISHERIES
1413
COMPACT
1414
1415     The contracting states solemnly agree:
1416
1417
ARTICLE I
1418
1419     Whereas the gulf coast states have the proprietary interest
1420in and jurisdiction over fisheries in the waters within their
1421respective boundaries, it is the purpose of this compact to
1422promote the better utilization of the fisheries, marine, shell
1423and anadromous, of the seaboard of the Gulf of Mexico, by the
1424development of a joint program for the promotion and protection
1425of such fisheries and the prevention of the physical waste of
1426the fisheries from any cause.
1427
1428
ARTICLE II
1429
1430     This compact shall become operative immediately as to those
1431states ratifying it whenever any two or more of the States of
1432Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana and Texas have ratified
1433it and the Congress has given its consent subject to article I,
1434s. 10 of the Constitution of the United States. Any state
1435contiguous to any of the aforementioned states or riparian upon
1436waters which flow into waters under the jurisdiction of any of
1437the aforementioned states and which are frequented by anadromous
1438fish or marine species may become a party hereto as hereinafter
1439provided.
1440
1441
ARTICLE III
1442
1443     Each state joining herein shall appoint three
1444representatives to a commission hereby constituted and
1445designated as the Gulf States Marine Fisheries Commission. One
1446shall be the head of the administrative agency of such state
1447charged with the conservation of the fishery resources to which
1448this compact pertains or, if there be more than one officer or
1449agency, the official of that state named by the governor
1450thereof. The second shall be a member of the legislature of such
1451state designated by such legislature or in the absence of such
1452designation, such legislator shall be designated by the governor
1453thereof, provided that if it is constitutionally impossible to
1454appoint a legislator as a commissioner from such state, the
1455second member shall be appointed in such manner as may be
1456established by law. The third shall be a citizen who shall have
1457a knowledge of and interest in the marine fisheries, to be
1458appointed by the governor. This commission shall be a body
1459corporate with the powers and duties set forth herein.
1460
1461
ARTICLE IV
1462
1463     The duty of the said commission shall be to make inquiry
1464and ascertain from time to time such methods, practices,
1465circumstances and conditions as may be disclosed for bringing
1466about the conservation and the prevention of the depletion and
1467physical waste of the fisheries, marine, shell and anadromous,
1468of the gulf coast. The commission shall have power to recommend
1469the coordination of the exercise of the police powers of the
1470several states within their respective jurisdiction to promote
1471the preservation of these fisheries and their protection against
1472overfishing, waste, depletion or any abuse whatsoever and to
1473assure a continuing yield from the fishery resources of the
1474aforementioned states.
1475     To that end the commission shall draft and recommend to the
1476governors and the legislatures of the various signatory states,
1477legislation dealing with the conservation of the marine, shell
1478and anadromous fisheries of the gulf seaboard. The commission
1479shall from time to time present to the governor of each
1480compacting state its recommendations relating to enactments to
1481be presented to the legislature of the state in furthering the
1482interest and purposes of this compact.
1483     The commission shall consult with and advise the pertinent
1484administrative agencies in the states party hereto with regard
1485to problems connected with the fisheries and recommend the
1486adoption of such regulations as it deems advisable.
1487     The commission shall have power to recommend to the states
1488party hereto the stocking of the waters of such states with fish
1489and fish eggs or joint stocking by some or all of the states
1490party hereto and when two or more states shall jointly stock
1491waters the commission shall act as the coordinating agency for
1492such stocking.
1493
1494
ARTICLE V
1495
1496     The commission shall elect from its number a chair and vice
1497chair and shall appoint and at its pleasure remove or discharge
1498such officers and employees as may be required to carry the
1499provisions of this compact into effect and shall fix and
1500determine their duties, qualifications and compensation. Said
1501commission shall adopt rules and regulations for the conduct of
1502its business. It may establish and maintain one or more offices
1503for the transaction of its business and may meet at any time or
1504place but must meet at least once a year.
1505
1506
ARTICLE VI
1507
1508     No action shall be taken by the commission in regard to its
1509general affairs except by the affirmative vote of a majority of
1510the whole number of compacting states. No recommendation shall
1511be made by the commission in regard to any species of fish
1512except by the affirmative vote of a majority of the compacting
1513states which have an interest in such species. The commission
1514shall define which shall be an interest.
1515
1516
ARTICLE VII
1517
1518     The Fish and Wildlife Service of the Department of the
1519Interior of the Government of the United States shall act as the
1520primary research agency of the Gulf States Marine Fisheries
1521Commission cooperating with the research agencies in each state
1522for that purpose. Representatives of the said fish and wildlife
1523service shall attend the meetings of the commission. An advisory
1524committee to be representative of the commercial salt water
1525fishers and the salt water anglers and such other interests of
1526each state as the commissioners deem advisable may be
1527established by the commissioners from each state for the purpose
1528of advising those commissioners upon such recommendations as it
1529may desire to make.
1530
1531
ARTICLE VIII
1532
1533     When any state other than those named specifically in
1534article II of this compact shall become a party hereto for the
1535purpose of conserving its anadromous fish or marine species in
1536accordance with the provisions of article II, the participation
1537of such state in the action of the commission shall be limited
1538to such species of fish.
1539
1540
ARTICLE IX
1541
1542     Nothing in this compact shall be construed to limit the
1543powers or the proprietary interest of any signatory state or to
1544repeal or prevent the enactment of any legislation or the
1545enforcement of any requirement by a signatory state imposing
1546additional conditions and restrictions to conserve its
1547fisheries.
1548
1549
ARTICLE X
1550
1551     It is agreed that any two or more states party hereto may
1552further amend this compact by acts of their respective
1553legislatures subject to approval of Congress as provided in
1554article I, s. 10, of the Constitution of the United States, to
1555designate the Gulf States Marine Fisheries Commission as a joint
1556regulating authority for the joint regulation of specific
1557fisheries affecting only such states as shall be compact, and at
1558their joint expense. The representatives of such states shall
1559constitute a separate section of the Gulf States Marine
1560Fisheries Commission for the exercise of the additional powers
1561so granted but the creation of such section shall not be deemed
1562to deprive the states so compacting of any of their privileges
1563or powers in the Gulf States Marine Fisheries Commission as
1564constituted under the other articles of this compact.
1565
1566
ARTICLE XI
1567
1568     Continued absence of representation or of any
1569representative on the commission from any state party hereto
1570shall be brought to the attention of the governor thereof.
1571
1572
ARTICLE XII
1573
1574     The operating expenses of the Gulf States Marine Fisheries
1575Commission shall be borne by the states party hereto. Such
1576initial appropriations as are set forth below shall be made
1577available yearly until modified as hereinafter provided:
1578     Florida..............................................$3,500
1579     Alabama...............................................1,000
1580     Mississippi...........................................1,000
1581     Louisiana.............................................5,000
1582     Texas.................................................2,500
1583     Total...............................................$13,000
1584
1585The proration and total cost per annum of $13,000, above-
1586mentioned, is estimated only, for initial operations, and may be
1587changed when found necessary by the commission and approved by
1588the legislatures of the respective states. Each state party
1589hereto agrees to provide in the manner most acceptable to it,
1590the travel costs and necessary expenses of its commissioners and
1591other representatives to and from meetings of the commission or
1592its duly constituted sections or committees.
1593
1594
ARTICLE XIII
1595
1596     This compact shall continue in force and remain binding
1597upon each compacting state until renounced by act of the
1598legislature of such state, in such form as it may choose;
1599provided that such renunciation shall not become effective until
16006 months after the effective date of the action taken by the
1601legislature. Notice of such renunciation shall be given to the
1602other states party hereto by the secretary of state of the
1603compacting state so renouncing upon passage of the act.
1604     (2)  MEMBERS OF COMMISSION; TERM OF OFFICE.--In pursuance
1605of article III of said compact, there shall be three members
1606(hereinafter called commissioners) of the Gulf States Marine
1607Fisheries Commission (hereafter called commission) from the
1608State of Florida. The first commissioner from the State of
1609Florida shall be the Executive Director of the Fish and Wildlife
1610Conservation Commission, ex officio, and the term of any such ex
1611officio commissioner shall terminate at the time he or she
1612ceases to hold said office of Executive Director of the Fish and
1613Wildlife Conservation Commission, and his or her successor as
1614commissioner shall be his or her successor as executive
1615director. The second commissioner from the State of Florida
1616shall be a legislator appointed on a rotating basis by the
1617President of the Senate or the Speaker of the House of
1618Representatives, beginning with the appointment of a member of
1619the House of Representatives, and the term of any such
1620commissioner shall terminate at the time he or she ceases to
1621hold said legislative office. The Governor (subject to
1622confirmation by the Senate) shall appoint a citizen as a third
1623commissioner who shall have a knowledge of and interest in the
1624marine fisheries problem. The term of said commissioner shall be
16253 years and the commissioner shall hold office until a successor
1626shall be appointed and qualified. Vacancies occurring in the
1627office of such commissioner from any reason or cause shall be
1628filled by appointment by the Governor (subject to confirmation
1629by the Senate) for the unexpired term. The Executive Director of
1630the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, as ex officio
1631commissioner, may delegate, from time to time, to any deputy or
1632other subordinate in his or her department or office, the power
1633to be present and participate, including voting, as his or her
1634representative or substitute at any meeting of or hearing by or
1635other proceeding of the commission. The terms of each of the
1636initial three members shall begin at the date of the appointment
1637of the appointive commissioner, provided the said compact shall
1638then have gone into effect in accordance with article II of the
1639compact; otherwise they shall begin upon the date upon which
1640said compact shall become effective in accordance with said
1641article II.
1642     Any commissioner may be removed from office by the Governor
1643upon charges and after a hearing.
1644     (3)  COMMISSION; POWERS.--There is hereby granted to the
1645commission and the commissioners thereof all the powers provided
1646for in the said compact and all the powers necessary or
1647incidental to the carrying out of said compact in every
1648particular. All officers of the State of Florida are hereby
1649authorized and directed to do all things falling within their
1650respective provinces and jurisdiction necessary or incidental to
1651the carrying out of said compact in every particular; it being
1652hereby declared to be the policy of the State of Florida to
1653perform and carry out the said compact and to accomplish the
1654purposes thereof. All officers, bureaus, departments and persons
1655of and in the state government or administration of the State of
1656Florida are hereby authorized and directed at convenient times
1657and upon request of the said commission to furnish the said
1658commission with information and data possessed by them or any of
1659them and to aid said commission by loan of personnel or other
1660means lying within their legal rights respectively.
1661     (4)  POWERS OF COMMISSION SUPPLEMENTAL.--Any powers herein
1662granted to the commissioner shall be regarded as in aid of and
1663supplemental to and in no case a limitation upon any of the
1664powers vested in said commission by other laws of the State of
1665Florida or by the laws of the States of Alabama, Mississippi,
1666Louisiana, Texas and Florida or by the Congress or the terms of
1667said compact.
1668     (5)  ACCOUNTS TO BE KEPT BY COMMISSION; EXAMINATION.--The
1669commission shall keep accurate accounts of all receipts and
1670disbursements and shall report to the Governor and the
1671Legislature of the State of Florida on or before the 10th day of
1672December in each year, setting forth in detail the transactions
1673conducted by it during the 12 months preceding December 1 of
1674that year and shall make recommendations for any legislative
1675action deemed by it advisable, including amendments to the
1676statutes of the State of Florida which may be necessary to carry
1677out the intent and purposes of the compact between the signatory
1678states.
1679     The Department of Financial Services is authorized and
1680empowered from time to time to examine the accounts and books of
1681the commission, including its receipts, disbursements and such
1682other items referring to its financial standing as such
1683department deems proper and to report the results of such
1684examination to the governor of such state.
1685     Section 38.  Section 372.831, Florida Statutes, is
1686renumbered as section 379.2255, Florida Statutes, and amended to
1687read:
1688     379.2255 372.831  Wildlife Violator Compact Act.--The
1689Wildlife Violator Compact is created and entered into with all
1690other jurisdictions legally joining therein in the form
1691substantially as follows:
1692
1693
ARTICLE I
1694
Findings and Purpose
1695
1696     (1)  The participating states find that:
1697     (a)  Wildlife resources are managed in trust by the
1698respective states for the benefit of all residents and visitors.
1699     (b)  The protection of the wildlife resources of a state is
1700materially affected by the degree of compliance with state
1701statutes, laws, regulations, ordinances, and administrative
1702rules relating to the management of such resources.
1703     (c)  The preservation, protection, management, and
1704restoration of wildlife contributes immeasurably to the
1705aesthetic, recreational, and economic aspects of such natural
1706resources.
1707     (d)  Wildlife resources are valuable without regard to
1708political boundaries; therefore, every person should be required
1709to comply with wildlife preservation, protection, management,
1710and restoration laws, ordinances, and administrative rules and
1711regulations of the participating states as a condition precedent
1712to the continuance or issuance of any license to hunt, fish,
1713trap, or possess wildlife.
1714     (e)  Violation of wildlife laws interferes with the
1715management of wildlife resources and may endanger the safety of
1716persons and property.
1717     (f)  The mobility of many wildlife law violators
1718necessitates the maintenance of channels of communication among
1719the various states.
1720     (g)  In most instances, a person who is cited for a
1721wildlife violation in a state other than his or her home state
1722is:
1723     1.  Required to post collateral or a bond to secure
1724appearance for a trial at a later date;
1725     2.  Taken into custody until the collateral or bond is
1726posted; or
1727     3.  Taken directly to court for an immediate appearance.
1728     (h)  The purpose of the enforcement practices set forth in
1729paragraph (g) is to ensure compliance with the terms of a
1730wildlife citation by the cited person who, if permitted to
1731continue on his or her way after receiving the citation, could
1732return to his or her home state and disregard his or her duty
1733under the terms of the citation.
1734     (i)  In most instances, a person receiving a wildlife
1735citation in his or her home state is permitted to accept the
1736citation from the officer at the scene of the violation and
1737immediately continue on his or her way after agreeing or being
1738instructed to comply with the terms of the citation.
1739     (j)  The practices described in paragraph (g) cause
1740unnecessary inconvenience and, at times, a hardship for the
1741person who is unable at the time to post collateral, furnish a
1742bond, stand trial, or pay a fine, and thus is compelled to
1743remain in custody until some alternative arrangement is made.
1744     (k)  The enforcement practices described in paragraph (g)
1745consume an undue amount of time of law enforcement agencies.
1746     (2)  It is the policy of the participating states to:
1747     (a)  Promote compliance with the statutes, laws,
1748ordinances, regulations, and administrative rules relating to
1749the management of wildlife resources in their respective states.
1750     (b)  Recognize a suspension of the wildlife license
1751privileges of any person whose license privileges have been
1752suspended by a participating state and treat such suspension as
1753if it had occurred in each respective state.
1754     (c)  Allow a violator, except as provided in subsection (2)
1755of Article III, to accept a wildlife citation and, without
1756delay, proceed on his or her way, whether or not the violator is
1757a resident of the state in which the citation was issued, if the
1758violator's home state is party to this compact.
1759     (d)  Report to the appropriate participating state, as
1760provided in the compact manual, any conviction recorded against
1761any person whose home state was not the issuing state.
1762     (e)  Allow the home state to recognize and treat
1763convictions recorded against its residents, which convictions
1764occurred in a participating state, as though they had occurred
1765in the home state.
1766     (f)  Extend cooperation to its fullest extent among the
1767participating states for enforcing compliance with the terms of
1768a wildlife citation issued in one participating state to a
1769resident of another participating state.
1770     (g)  Maximize the effective use of law enforcement
1771personnel and information.
1772     (h)  Assist court systems in the efficient disposition of
1773wildlife violations.
1774     (3)  The purpose of this compact is to:
1775     (a)  Provide a means through which participating states may
1776join in a reciprocal program to effectuate the policies
1777enumerated in subsection (2) in a uniform and orderly manner.
1778     (b)  Provide for the fair and impartial treatment of
1779wildlife violators operating within participating states in
1780recognition of the violator's right to due process and the
1781sovereign status of a participating state.
1782
1783
ARTICLE II
1784
Definitions
1785
1786As used in this compact, the term:
1787     (1)  "Citation" means any summons, complaint, summons and
1788complaint, ticket, penalty assessment, or other official
1789document issued to a person by a wildlife officer or other peace
1790officer for a wildlife violation which contains an order
1791requiring the person to respond.
1792     (2)  "Collateral" means any cash or other security
1793deposited to secure an appearance for trial in connection with
1794the issuance by a wildlife officer or other peace officer of a
1795citation for a wildlife violation.
1796     (3)  "Compliance" with respect to a citation means the act
1797of answering a citation through an appearance in a court or
1798tribunal, or through the payment of fines, costs, and
1799surcharges, if any.
1800     (4)  "Conviction" means a conviction that results in
1801suspension or revocation of a license, including any court
1802conviction, for any offense related to the preservation,
1803protection, management, or restoration of wildlife which is
1804prohibited by state statute, law, regulation, ordinance, or
1805administrative rule. The term also includes the forfeiture of
1806any bail, bond, or other security deposited to secure appearance
1807by a person charged with having committed any such offense, the
1808payment of a penalty assessment, a plea of nolo contendere, or
1809the imposition of a deferred or suspended sentence by the court.
1810     (5)  "Court" means a court of law, including magistrate's
1811court and the justice of the peace court.
1812     (6)  "Home state" means the state of primary residence of a
1813person.
1814     (7)  "Issuing state" means the participating state that
1815issues a wildlife citation to the violator.
1816     (8)  "License" means any license, permit, or other public
1817document that conveys to the person to whom it was issued the
1818privilege of pursuing, possessing, or taking any wildlife
1819regulated by statute, law, regulation, ordinance, or
1820administrative rule of a participating state; any privilege to
1821obtain such license, permit, or other public document; or any
1822statutory exemption from the requirement to obtain such license,
1823permit, or other public document. However, when applied to a
1824license, permit, or privilege issued or granted by the State of
1825Florida, only a license or permit issued under s. 379.354
1826372.57, or a privilege granted under s. 379.353 372.562, shall
1827be considered a license.
1828     (9)  "Licensing authority" means the department or division
1829within each participating state which is authorized by law to
1830issue or approve licenses or permits to hunt, fish, trap, or
1831possess wildlife.
1832     (10)  "Participating state" means any state that enacts
1833legislation to become a member of this wildlife compact.
1834     (11)  "Personal recognizance" means an agreement by a
1835person made at the time of issuance of the wildlife citation
1836that such person will comply with the terms of the citation.
1837     (12)  "State" means any state, territory, or possession of
1838the United States, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of
1839Puerto Rico, the Provinces of Canada, and other countries.
1840     (13)  "Suspension" means any revocation, denial, or
1841withdrawal of any or all license privileges, including the
1842privilege to apply for, purchase, or exercise the benefits
1843conferred by any license.
1844     (14)  "Terms of the citation" means those conditions and
1845options expressly stated upon the citation.
1846     (15)  "Wildlife" means all species of animals, including,
1847but not limited to, mammals, birds, fish, reptiles, amphibians,
1848mollusks, and crustaceans, which are defined as "wildlife" and
1849are protected or otherwise regulated by statute, law,
1850regulation, ordinance, or administrative rule in a participating
1851state. Species included in the definition of "wildlife" vary
1852from state to state and the determination of whether a species
1853is "wildlife" for the purposes of this compact shall be based on
1854local law.
1855     (16)  "Wildlife law" means any statute, law, regulation,
1856ordinance, or administrative rule developed and enacted for the
1857management of wildlife resources and the uses thereof.
1858     (17)  "Wildlife officer" means any individual authorized by
1859a participating state to issue a citation for a wildlife
1860violation.
1861     (18)  "Wildlife violation" means any cited violation of a
1862statute, law, regulation, ordinance, or administrative rule
1863developed and enacted for the management of wildlife resources
1864and the uses thereof.
1865
1866
ARTICLE III
1867
Procedures for Issuing State
1868
1869     (1)  When issuing a citation for a wildlife violation, a
1870wildlife officer shall issue a citation to any person whose
1871primary residence is in a participating state in the same manner
1872as though the person were a resident of the issuing state and
1873shall not require such person to post collateral to secure
1874appearance, subject to the exceptions noted in subsection (2),
1875if the officer receives the recognizance of such person that he
1876will comply with the terms of the citation.
1877     (2)  Personal recognizance is acceptable if not prohibited
1878by local law; by policy, procedure, or regulation of the issuing
1879agency; or by the compact manual and if the violator provides
1880adequate proof of identification to the wildlife officer.
1881     (3)  Upon conviction or failure of a person to comply with
1882the terms of a wildlife citation, the appropriate official shall
1883report the conviction or failure to comply to the licensing
1884authority of the participating state in which the wildlife
1885citation was issued. The report shall be made in accordance with
1886procedures specified by the issuing state and must contain
1887information as specified in the compact manual as minimum
1888requirements for effective processing by the home state.
1889     (4)  Upon receipt of the report of conviction or
1890noncompliance pursuant to subsection (3), the licensing
1891authority of the issuing state shall transmit to the licensing
1892authority of the home state of the violator the information in
1893the form and content prescribed in the compact manual.
1894
1895
ARTICLE IV
1896
Procedure for Home State
1897
1898     (1)  Upon receipt of a report from the licensing authority
1899of the issuing state reporting the failure of a violator to
1900comply with the terms of a citation, the licensing authority of
1901the home state shall notify the violator and shall initiate a
1902suspension action in accordance with the home state's suspension
1903procedures and shall suspend the violator's license privileges
1904until satisfactory evidence of compliance with the terms of the
1905wildlife citation has been furnished by the issuing state to the
1906home state licensing authority. Due-process safeguards shall be
1907accorded.
1908     (2)  Upon receipt of a report of conviction from the
1909licensing authority of the issuing state, the licensing
1910authority of the home state shall enter such conviction in its
1911records and shall treat such conviction as though it occurred in
1912the home state for purposes of the suspension of license
1913privileges.
1914     (3)  The licensing authority of the home state shall
1915maintain a record of actions taken and shall make reports to
1916issuing states as provided in the compact manual.
1917
1918
ARTICLE V
1919
Reciprocal Recognition of Suspension
1920
1921     (1)  Each participating state may recognize the suspension
1922of license privileges of any person by any other participating
1923state as though the violation resulting in the suspension had
1924occurred in that state and would have been the basis for
1925suspension of license privileges in that state.
1926     (2)  Each participating state shall communicate suspension
1927information to other participating states in the form and
1928content contained in the compact manual.
1929
1930
ARTICLE VI
1931
Applicability of Other Laws
1932
1933Except as expressly required by provisions of this compact, this
1934compact does not affect the right of any participating state to
1935apply any of its laws relating to license privileges to any
1936person or circumstance or to invalidate or prevent any agreement
1937or other cooperative arrangement between a participating state
1938and a nonparticipating state concerning the enforcement of
1939wildlife laws.
1940
1941
ARTICLE VII
1942
Compact Administrator Procedures
1943
1944     (1)  For the purpose of administering the provisions of
1945this compact and to serve as a governing body for the resolution
1946of all matters relating to the operation of this compact, a
1947board of compact administrators is established. The board shall
1948be composed of one representative from each of the participating
1949states to be known as the compact administrator. The compact
1950administrator shall be appointed by the head of the licensing
1951authority of each participating state and shall serve and be
1952subject to removal in accordance with the laws of the state he
1953or she represents. A compact administrator may provide for the
1954discharge of his or her duties and the performance of his or her
1955functions as a board member by an alternate. An alternate is not
1956entitled to serve unless written notification of his or her
1957identity has been given to the board.
1958     (2)  Each member of the board of compact administrators
1959shall be entitled to one vote. No action of the board shall be
1960binding unless taken at a meeting at which a majority of the
1961total number of the board's votes are cast in favor thereof.
1962Action by the board shall be only at a meeting at which a
1963majority of the participating states are represented.
1964     (3)  The board shall elect annually from its membership a
1965chairman and vice chairman.
1966     (4)  The board shall adopt bylaws not inconsistent with the
1967provisions of this compact or the laws of a participating state
1968for the conduct of its business and shall have the power to
1969amend and rescind its bylaws.
1970     (5)  The board may accept for any of its purposes and
1971functions under this compact any and all donations and grants of
1972moneys, equipment, supplies, materials, and services,
1973conditional or otherwise, from any state, the United States, or
1974any governmental agency, and may receive, use, and dispose of
1975the same.
1976     (6)  The board may contract with, or accept services or
1977personnel from, any governmental or intergovernmental agency,
1978individual, firm, corporation, or private nonprofit organization
1979or institution.
1980     (7)  The board shall formulate all necessary procedures and
1981develop uniform forms and documents for administering the
1982provisions of this compact. All procedures and forms adopted
1983pursuant to board action shall be contained in a compact manual.
1984
1985
ARTICLE VIII
1986
Entry into Compact and Withdrawal
1987
1988     (1)  This compact shall become effective at such time as it
1989is adopted in substantially similar form by two or more states.
1990     (2)
1991     (a)  Entry into the compact shall be made by resolution of
1992ratification executed by the authorized officials of the
1993applying state and submitted to the chairman of the board.
1994     (b)  The resolution shall substantially be in the form and
1995content as provided in the compact manual and must include the
1996following:
1997     1.  A citation of the authority from which the state is
1998empowered to become a party to this compact;
1999     2.  An agreement of compliance with the terms and
2000provisions of this compact; and
2001     3.  An agreement that compact entry is with all states
2002participating in the compact and with all additional states
2003legally becoming a party to the compact.
2004     (c)  The effective date of entry shall be specified by the
2005applying state, but may not be less than 60 days after notice
2006has been given by the chairman of the board of the compact
2007administrators or by the secretariat of the board to each
2008participating state that the resolution from the applying state
2009has been received.
2010     (3)  A participating state may withdraw from participation
2011in this compact by official written notice to each participating
2012state, but withdrawal shall not become effective until 90 days
2013after the notice of withdrawal is given. The notice must be
2014directed to the compact administrator of each member state. The
2015withdrawal of any state does not affect the validity of this
2016compact as to the remaining participating states.
2017
2018
ARTICLE IX
2019
Amendments to the Compact
2020
2021     (1)  This compact may be amended from time to time.
2022Amendments shall be presented in resolution form to the chairman
2023of the board of compact administrators and shall be initiated by
2024one or more participating states.
2025     (2)  Adoption of an amendment shall require endorsement by
2026all participating states and shall become effective 30 days
2027after the date of the last endorsement.
2028
2029
ARTICLE X
2030
Construction and Severability
2031
2032This compact shall be liberally construed so as to effectuate
2033the purposes stated herein. The provisions of this compact are
2034severable and if any phrase, clause, sentence, or provision of
2035this compact is declared to be contrary to the constitution of
2036any participating state or of the United States, or if the
2037applicability thereof to any government, agency, individual, or
2038circumstance is held invalid, the validity of the remainder of
2039this compact shall not be affected thereby. If this compact is
2040held contrary to the constitution of any participating state,
2041the compact shall remain in full force and effect as to the
2042remaining states and in full force and effect as to the
2043participating state affected as to all severable matters.
2044
2045
ARTICLE XI
2046
Title
2047
2048     This compact shall be known as the "Wildlife Violator
2049Compact."
2050     Section 39.  Section 372.8311, Florida Statutes, is
2051renumbered as section 379.2256, Florida Statutes, and amended to
2052read:
2053     379.2256 372.8311  Compact licensing and enforcement
2054authority; administrative review.--
2055     (1)  LICENSING AND ENFORCEMENT AUTHORITY.--For purposes of
2056this act and the interstate Wildlife Violator Compact, the Fish
2057and Wildlife Conservation Commission is the licensing authority
2058for the State of Florida and shall enforce the interstate
2059Wildlife Violator Compact and shall do all things within the
2060commission's jurisdiction which are necessary to effectuate the
2061purposes and the intent of the compact. The commission may
2062execute a resolution of ratification to formalize the State of
2063Florida's entry into the compact. Upon adoption of the Wildlife
2064Violator Compact, the commission may adopt rules to administer
2065the provisions of the compact.
2066     (2)  ADMINISTRATIVE REVIEW.--Any action committed or
2067omitted by the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission under
2068or in the enforcement of the Wildlife Violator Compact created
2069in s. 379.2255 372.831 is subject to review under chapter 120.
2070     Section 40.  Section 372.74, Florida Statutes, is
2071renumbered as section 379.2257, Florida Statutes, to read:
2072     379.2257 372.74  Cooperative agreements with U. S. Forest
2073Service; penalty.--The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
2074is authorized and empowered:
2075     (1)  To enter into cooperative agreements with the United
2076States Forest Service for the development of game, bird, fish,
2077reptile, or fur-bearing animal management and demonstration
2078projects on and in the Osceola National Forest in Columbia and
2079Baker Counties, and in the Ocala National Forest in Marion,
2080Lake, and Putnam Counties and in the Apalachicola National
2081Forest in Liberty County. Provided, however, that no such
2082cooperative agreements shall become effective in any county
2083concerned until confirmed by the board of county commissioners
2084of such county expressed through appropriate resolution.
2085     (2)  In cooperation with the United States Forest Service,
2086to make, adopt, promulgate, amend, and repeal rules and
2087regulations, consistent with law, for the further or better
2088control of hunting, fishing, and control of wildlife in the
2089above National Forests or parts thereof; to shorten seasons and
2090reduce bag limits, or shorten or close seasons on any species of
2091game, bird, fish, reptile, or fur-bearing animal within the
2092limits prescribed by the Florida law, in the above enumerated
2093National Forests or parts thereof, when it shall find after
2094investigation that such action is necessary to assure the
2095maintenance of an adequate supply of wildlife.
2096     (3)  To fix a charge not to exceed $5, for persons 18 years
2097of age and over, and not to exceed $2 for persons under the age
2098of 18 years, over and above the license fee for hunting now
2099required by law. This additional fee is to apply only on areas
2100covered by above cooperative agreements. The proceeds from this
2101additional license fee shall be used in the development,
2102propagation of wildlife, and protection of the areas covered by
2103the cooperative agreements as the commission and the United
2104States Forest Service may deem proper. Nothing in this section
2105shall be construed as authorizing the commission to change any
2106penalty prescribed by law or to change the amount of general
2107license fees or the general authority conferred by licenses
2108prescribed by law.
2109     (4)  In addition to the requirements of chapter 120, notice
2110of the making, adoption, and promulgation of the above rules and
2111regulations shall be given by posting said notices, or copies of
2112the rules and regulations, in the offices of the county judges
2113and in the post offices within the area to be affected and
2114within 10 miles thereof. In addition to the posting of said
2115notices, as aforesaid, copies of said notices or of said rules
2116and regulations shall also be published in newspapers published
2117at the county seats of Baker, Columbia, Marion, Lake, Putnam,
2118and Liberty Counties, or so many thereof as have newspapers,
2119once not more than 35 nor less than 28 days and once not more
2120than 21 nor less than 14 days prior to the opening of the state
2121hunting season in said areas. Any person violating any rules or
2122regulations promulgated by the commission to cover these areas
2123under cooperative agreements between the Fish and Wildlife
2124Conservation Commission and the United States Forest Service,
2125none of which shall be in conflict with the laws of Florida,
2126shall be guilty of a misdemeanor of the second degree,
2127punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083.
2128     Section 41.  Section 372.77, Florida Statutes, is
2129renumbered as section 379.2258, Florida Statutes, to read:
2130     379.2258 372.77  Assent to provisions of Act of Congress of
2131September 2, 1937.--
2132     (1)  The state hereby assents to the provisions of the Act
2133of Congress entitled "An Act to provide that the United States
2134shall aid the States in Wildlife Restoration Projects, and for
2135other purposes," approved September 2, 1937 (Pub. L. No. 415,
213675th Congress), and the Fish and Wildlife Conservation
2137Commission is hereby authorized, empowered, and directed to
2138perform such acts as may be necessary to the conduct and
2139establishment of cooperative wildlife restoration projects, as
2140defined in said Act of Congress, in compliance with said act and
2141rules and regulations promulgated by the Secretary of
2142Agriculture thereunder.
2143     (2)  From and after the passage of this section it shall be
2144unlawful to divert any funds accruing to the state from license
2145fees paid by hunters for any purpose other than the
2146administration of the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
2147of the state.
2148     Section 42.  Section 372.7701, Florida Statutes, is
2149renumbered as section 379.2259, Florida Statutes, and amended to
2150read:
2151     379.2259 372.7701  Assent to federal acts.--
2152     (1)  The state hereby assents to the provisions of the
2153Federal Aid in Fish Restoration Act of August 9, 1950, as
2154amended. The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission shall
2155perform such activities as are necessary to conduct wildlife and
2156sportfish restoration projects, as defined in such Act of
2157Congress and in compliance with the act and rules adopted
2158thereunder by the United States Department of the Interior.
2159Furthermore, the commission shall develop and implement programs
2160to manage, protect, restore, and conserve marine mammals and the
2161marine fishery and shall develop and implement similar programs
2162for wild animal life and freshwater aquatic life.
2163     (2)  Revenues from fees paid by hunters and sport fishers
2164may not be diverted to purposes other than the administration of
2165fish and wildlife programs by the Fish and Wildlife Conservation
2166Commission. Administration of the state fish and wildlife
2167programs includes only those functions of fish and wildlife
2168management as are the responsibility of and under the authority
2169of the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
2170     (3)  This section shall be construed in harmony with s.
2171379.2258 372.77.
2172     Section 43.  Section 370.21, Florida Statutes, is
2173renumbered as section 379.226, Florida Statutes, and amended to
2174read:
2175     379.226 370.21  Florida Territorial Waters Act; alien-owned  
2176commercial fishing vessels; prohibited acts; enforcement.--
2177     (1)  This act may be known and cited as the "Florida
2178Territorial Waters Act."
2179     (2)  It is the purpose of this act to exercise and exert
2180full sovereignty and control of the territorial waters of the
2181state.
2182     (3)  No license shall be issued by the Fish and Wildlife
2183Conservation Commission under s. 379.361 370.06, to any vessel
2184owned in whole or in part by any alien power, which subscribes
2185to the doctrine of international communism, or any subject or
2186national thereof, who subscribes to the doctrine of
2187international communism, or any individual who subscribes to the
2188doctrine of international communism, or who shall have signed a
2189treaty of trade, friendship and alliance or a nonaggression pact
2190with any communist power. The commission shall grant or withhold
2191said licenses where other alien vessels are involved on the
2192basis of reciprocity and retorsion, unless the nation concerned
2193shall be designated as a friendly ally or neutral by a formal
2194suggestion transmitted to the Governor of Florida by the
2195Secretary of State of the United States. Upon the receipt of
2196such suggestion licenses shall be granted under s. 379.361
2197370.06, without regard to reciprocity and retorsion, to vessels
2198of such nations.
2199     (4)  It is unlawful for any unlicensed alien vessel to take
2200by any means whatsoever, attempt to take, or having so taken to
2201possess, any natural resource of the state's territorial waters,
2202as such waters are described by Art. II of the State
2203Constitution.
2204     (5)  It is the duty of all harbormasters of the state to
2205prevent the use of any port facility in a manner which they
2206reasonably suspect may assist in the violation of this act.
2207Harbormasters shall endeavor by all reasonable means, which may
2208include the inspection of nautical logs, to ascertain from
2209masters of newly arrived vessels of all types other than
2210warships of the United States, the presence of alien commercial
2211fishing vessels within the territorial waters of the state, and
2212shall transmit such information promptly to the Fish and
2213Wildlife Conservation Commission and such law enforcement
2214agencies of the state as the situation may indicate.
2215Harbormasters shall request assistance from the United States
2216Coast Guard in appropriate cases to prevent unauthorized
2217departure from any port facility.
2218     (6)  All licensed harbor pilots are required to promptly
2219transmit any knowledge coming to their attention regarding
2220possible violations of this act to the harbormaster of the port
2221or the appropriate law enforcement officials.
2222     (7)  All law enforcement agencies of the state, including
2223but not limited to sheriffs and officers of the Fish and
2224Wildlife Conservation Commission, are empowered and directed to
2225arrest the masters and crews of vessels who are reasonably
2226believed to be in violation of this law, and to seize and detain
2227such vessels, their equipment and catch. Such arresting officers
2228shall take the offending crews or property before the court
2229having jurisdiction of such offenses. All such agencies are
2230directed to request assistance from the United States Coast
2231Guard in the enforcement of this act when having knowledge of
2232vessels operating in violation or probable violation of this act
2233within their jurisdictions when such agencies are without means
2234to effectuate arrest and restraint of vessels and their crews.
2235     (8)  The fine or imprisonment of persons and confiscation
2236proceedings against vessels, gear and catch prescribed for
2237violations of this chapter, shall be imposed for violation of
2238this act; provided that nothing herein shall authorize the
2239repurchase of property for a nominal sum by the owner upon proof
2240of lack of complicity in the violation or undertaking.
2241     (9)  No crew member or master seeking bona fide political
2242asylum shall be fined or imprisoned hereunder.
2243     (10)  Harbormasters and law enforcement agencies are
2244authorized to request assistance from the Civil Air Patrol in
2245the surveillance of suspect vessels. Aircraft of the Division of
2246Forestry of the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services
2247or other state or county agencies which are conveniently located
2248and not otherwise occupied may be similarly utilized.
2249     Section 44.  Section 370.06092, Florida Statutes, is
2250renumbered as section 379.2271, Florida Statutes, to read:
2251     379.2271 370.06092  Harmful-Algal-Bloom Task Force.--
2252     (1)  There is established a Harmful-Algal-Bloom Task Force
2253for the purpose of determining research, monitoring, control,
2254and mitigation strategies for red tide and other harmful algal
2255blooms in Florida waters. The Fish and Wildlife Research
2256Institute shall appoint to the task force scientists, engineers,
2257economists, members of citizen groups, and members of
2258government. The task force shall determine research and
2259monitoring priorities and control and mitigation strategies and
2260make recommendations to the Fish and Wildlife Research Institute
2261for using funds as provided in this act.
2262     (2)  The Harmful-Algal-Bloom Task Force shall:
2263     (a)  Review the status and adequacy of information for
2264monitoring physical, chemical, biological, economic, and public
2265health factors affecting harmful algal blooms in Florida;
2266     (b)  Develop research and monitoring priorities for harmful
2267algal blooms in Florida, including detection, prediction,
2268mitigation, and control;
2269     (c)  Develop recommendations that can be implemented by
2270state and local governments to develop a response plan and to
2271predict, mitigate, and control the effects of harmful algal
2272blooms; and
2273     (d)  Make recommendations to the Fish and Wildlife Research
2274Institute for research, detection, monitoring, prediction,
2275mitigation, and control of harmful algal blooms in Florida.
2276     Section 45.  Section 370.06093, Florida Statutes, is
2277renumbered as section 379.2272, Florida Statutes, to read:
2278     379.2272 370.06093  Harmful-algal-bloom program;
2279implementation; goals; funding.--
2280     (1)(a)  The Fish and Wildlife Research Institute shall
2281implement a program designed to increase the knowledge of
2282factors that control harmful algal blooms, including red tide,
2283and to gain knowledge to be used for the early detection of
2284factors precipitating harmful algal blooms for accurate
2285prediction of the extent and seriousness of harmful algal blooms
2286and for undertaking successful efforts to control and mitigate
2287the effects of harmful algal blooms.
2288     (b)  The Legislature intends that this program enhance and
2289address areas that are not adequately covered in the cooperative
2290federal-state program known as Ecology and Oceanography of
2291Harmful Algal Blooms (ECOHAB-Florida), which includes the
2292University of South Florida, the Mote Marine Laboratory, and the
2293Fish and Wildlife Research Institute.
2294     (c)  The goal of this program is to enable resource
2295managers to assess the potential for public health damage and
2296economic damage from a given bloom and to undertake control and
2297mitigation efforts through the development and application of an
2298integrated detection and prediction network for monitoring and
2299responding to the development and movement of harmful algal
2300blooms in Florida marine and estuarine waters.
2301     (2)  A financial disbursement program is created within the
2302Fish and Wildlife Research Institute to implement the provisions
2303of this act. Under the program, the institute shall provide
2304funding and technical assistance to government agencies,
2305research universities, coastal local governments, and
2306organizations with scientific and technical expertise for the
2307purposes of harmful-algal-bloom research, economic impact study,
2308monitoring, detection, control, and mitigation. The program may
2309be funded from state, federal, and private contributions.
2310     Section 46.  Section 372.97, Florida Statutes, is
2311renumbered as section 379.2281, Florida Statutes, to read:
2312     379.2281 372.97  Jim Woodruff Dam; reciprocity
2313agreements.--The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission of
2314the state is hereby authorized to enter into an agreement of the
2315reciprocity with the game and fish commissioners or the
2316appropriate officials or departments of the State of Georgia and
2317the State of Alabama relative to the taking of game and
2318freshwater fish from the waters of the lake created by the Jim
2319Woodruff Dam by permitting reciprocal license privileges.
2320     Section 47.  Section 372.971, Florida Statutes, is
2321renumbered as section 379.2282, Florida Statutes, to read:
2322     379.2282 372.971  St. Marys River; reciprocity
2323agreements.--The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission of
2324the state is hereby authorized to enter into an agreement of
2325reciprocity with the game and fish commissioner or the
2326appropriate officials or departments of the State of Georgia
2327relative to the taking of game and freshwater fish from the
2328waters of the St. Marys River by permitting reciprocal agreement
2329license privileges.
2330     Section 48.  Section 372.072, Florida Statutes, is
2331renumbered as 379.2291, Florida Statutes, to read:
2332     379.2291 372.072  Endangered and Threatened Species Act.--
2333     (1)  SHORT TITLE.--This section may be cited as the
2334"Florida Endangered and Threatened Species Act."
2335     (2)  DECLARATION OF POLICY.--The Legislature recognizes
2336that the State of Florida harbors a wide diversity of fish and
2337wildlife and that it is the policy of this state to conserve and
2338wisely manage these resources, with particular attention to
2339those species defined by the Fish and Wildlife Conservation
2340Commission, the Department of Environmental Protection, or the
2341United States Department of Interior, or successor agencies, as
2342being endangered or threatened. As Florida has more endangered
2343and threatened species than any other continental state, it is
2344the intent of the Legislature to provide for research and
2345management to conserve and protect these species as a natural
2346resource.
2347     (3)  DEFINITIONS.--As used in this section:
2348     (a)  "Fish and wildlife" means any member of the animal
2349kingdom, including, but not limited to, any mammal, fish, bird,
2350amphibian, reptile, mollusk, crustacean, arthropod, or other
2351invertebrate.
2352     (b)  "Endangered species" means any species of fish and
2353wildlife naturally occurring in Florida, whose prospects of
2354survival are in jeopardy due to modification or loss of habitat;
2355overutilization for commercial, sporting, scientific, or
2356educational purposes; disease; predation; inadequacy of
2357regulatory mechanisms; or other natural or manmade factors
2358affecting its continued existence.
2359     (c)  "Threatened species" means any species of fish and
2360wildlife naturally occurring in Florida which may not be in
2361immediate danger of extinction, but which exists in such small
2362populations as to become endangered if it is subjected to
2363increased stress as a result of further modification of its
2364environment.
2365     (4)  INTERAGENCY COORDINATION.--
2366     (a)  The commission shall be responsible for research and
2367management of freshwater and upland species and for research and
2368management of marine species.
2369     (b)  Recognizing that citizen awareness is a key element in
2370the success of this plan, the commission and the Department of
2371Education are encouraged to work together to develop a public
2372education program with emphasis on, but not limited to, both
2373public and private schools.
2374     (c)  The commission, in consultation with the Department of
2375Agriculture and Consumer Services, the Department of Community
2376Affairs, or the Department of Transportation, may establish
2377reduced speed zones along roads, streets, and highways to
2378protect endangered species or threatened species.
2379     (5)  ANNUAL REPORT.--The director of the commission shall,
2380at least 30 days prior to each annual session of the
2381Legislature, transmit to the Governor and Cabinet, the President
2382of the Senate, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, and
2383the chairs of the appropriate Senate and House committees, a
2384revised and updated plan for management and conservation of
2385endangered and threatened species, including criteria for
2386research and management priorities; a description of the
2387educational program; statewide policies pertaining to protection
2388of endangered and threatened species; additional legislation
2389which may be required; and the recommended level of funding for
2390the following year, along with a progress report and budget
2391request.
2392     (6)  MEASURABLE BIOLOGICAL GOALS.--Measurable biological
2393goals that define manatee recovery developed by the commission,
2394working in conjunction with the United States Fish and Wildlife
2395Service, shall be used by the commission in its development of
2396management plans or work plans. In addition to other criteria,
2397these measurable biological goals shall be used by the
2398commission when evaluating existing and proposed protection
2399rules, and in determining progress in achieving manatee
2400recovery. Not later than July 1, 2005, the commission shall
2401develop rules to define how measurable biological goals will be
2402used by the commission when evaluating the need for additional
2403manatee protection rules.
2404     Section 49.  Section 372.073, Florida Statutes, is
2405renumbered as section 379.2292, Florida Statutes, and amended to
2406read:
2407     379.2292 372.073  Endangered and Threatened Species Reward
2408Program.--
2409     (1)  There is established within the Fish and Wildlife
2410Conservation Commission the Endangered and Threatened Species
2411Reward Program, to be funded from the Nongame Wildlife Trust
2412Fund. The commission may post rewards to persons responsible for
2413providing information leading to the arrest and conviction of
2414persons illegally killing or wounding or wrongfully possessing
2415any of the endangered and threatened species listed on the
2416official Florida list of such species maintained by the
2417commission or the arrest and conviction of persons who violate
2418s. 379.4115 s. 372.667 or s. 372.671. Additional funds may be
2419provided by donations from interested individuals and
2420organizations. The reward program is to be administered by the
2421commission. The commission shall establish a schedule of
2422rewards.
2423     (2)  The commission may expend funds only for the following
2424purposes:
2425     (a)  The payment of rewards to persons, other than law
2426enforcement officers, commission personnel, and members of their
2427immediate families, for information as specified in subsection
2428(1); or
2429     (b)  The promotion of public recognition and awareness of
2430the Endangered and Threatened Species Reward Program.
2431     Section 50.  Section 372.771, Florida Statutes, is
2432renumbered as section 379.23, Florida Statutes, to read:
2433     379.23 372.771  Federal conservation of fish and wildlife;
2434limited jurisdiction.--
2435     (1)  Consent of the State of Florida is hereby given, to
2436the United States for acquisition of lands, waters, or lands and
2437waters or interests therein, for the purpose of managing,
2438protecting and propagating fish and wildlife and for other
2439conservation uses in the state, providing prior notice has been
2440given by the Federal Government to the Board of Trustees of the
2441Internal Improvement Trust Fund, the board of county
2442commissioners of the county where the lands proposed for
2443purchase are located, of such proposed action stating the
2444specific use to be made of and the specific location and
2445description of such lands desired by the Federal Government for
2446any such conservation use, and that such plans for acquisition
2447and use of said lands be approved by the Board of Trustees of
2448the Internal Improvement Trust Fund, the board of county
2449commissioners of the county where the lands proposed for
2450purchase are located; provided further that nothing herein
2451contained shall be construed to give the consent of the State of
2452Florida to the acquisition by the United States of lands,
2453waters, or lands and waters, or interests therein, through
2454exercise of the power of eminent domain; provided further that
2455the provisions of this act shall not apply to lands owned by the
2456several counties or by public corporations.
2457     (2)  The United States may exercise concurrent jurisdiction
2458over lands so acquired and carry out the intent and purpose of
2459the authority except that the existing laws of Florida relating
2460to the Department of Environmental Protection or the Fish and
2461Wildlife Conservation Commission shall prevail relating to any
2462area under their supervision.
2463     Section 51.  Section 372.265, Florida Statutes, is
2464renumbered as section 379.231, Florida Statutes, and amended to
2465read:
2466     379.231 372.265  Regulation of foreign animals.--
2467     (1)  It is unlawful to import for sale or use, or to
2468release within this state, any species of the animal kingdom not
2469indigenous to Florida without having obtained a permit to do so
2470from the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
2471     (2)  The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is
2472authorized to issue or deny such a permit upon the completion of
2473studies of the species made by it to determine any detrimental
2474effect the species might have on the ecology of the state.
2475     (3)  A person in violation of this section commits a Level
2476Three violation under s. 379.401 372.83.
2477     Section 52.  Section 370.03, Florida Statutes, is
2478renumbered as section 379.232, Florida Statutes, to read:
2479     379.232 370.03  Water bottoms.--
2480     (1)  OWNERSHIP.--All beds and bottoms of navigable rivers,
2481bayous, lagoons, lakes, bays, sounds, inlets, oceans, gulfs and
2482other bodies of water within the jurisdiction of Florida shall
2483be the property of the state except such as may be held under
2484some grant or alienation heretofore made. No grant, sale or
2485conveyance of any water bottom, except conditional leases and
2486dispositions hereinafter provided for, shall hereafter be made
2487by the state, the Board of Trustees of the Internal Improvement
2488Trust Fund, the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services,
2489or any other official or political corporation. Persons who have
2490received, or may hereafter receive permits to do business in
2491this state, with their factories, shucking plants and shipping
2492depots located in this state, may enjoy the right of fishing for
2493oysters and clams from the natural reefs and bedding oysters and
2494clams on leased bedding grounds, and shall have the right to
2495employ such boats, vessels, or labor and assistants as they may
2496need. Provided that no oysters shall be transported unshucked
2497and in the shells, out of the state, except for use in what is
2498commonly known as the "half-shell trade." When the oyster meats
2499have been separated from the shells it shall be permissible to
2500ship the meats out of the state for further processing and for
2501canning or packing. It shall be unlawful to transport oysters
2502out of the state, unshucked and in the shells, for processing or
2503packing.
2504     (2)  CONTROL.--The Department of Environmental Protection
2505has exclusive power and control over all water bottoms, not held
2506under some grant or alienation heretofore made, including such
2507as may revert to the state by cancellation or otherwise, and may
2508lease the same to any person irrespective of residence or
2509citizenship, upon such terms, conditions and restrictions as
2510said division may elect to impose, without limitation as to area
2511to any one person, for the purpose of granting exclusive right
2512to plant oysters or clams thereon and for the purpose of
2513fishing, taking, catching, bedding and raising oysters, clams
2514and other shellfish. No such lessee shall re-lease, sublease,
2515sell or transfer any such water bottom or property; provided,
2516that nothing herein contained shall be construed as giving said
2517department authority to lease sponge beds.
2518     (3)  FEES FOR BOTTOM LEASES, ETC.--The department shall
2519charge and receive a fee of $2 for each lease granted, and in
2520all other cases, not specifically provided by this chapter, the
2521same fees as are allowed clerks of the circuit court for like
2522services. All fees shall be paid by the party served.
2523     (4)  CONFIRMATION OF FORMER GRANTS; PROVISO.--All grants
2524prior to June 1, 1913, made in pursuance of heretofore existing
2525laws, where the person receiving such grant, the person's heirs
2526or assigns, have bona fide complied with the requirements of
2527said law, are hereby confirmed; provided, that if any material
2528or natural oyster or clam reefs or beds on such granted premises
2529are 100 square yards in area and contained natural oysters and
2530clams (coon oysters not included) in sufficient quantity to have
2531been resorted to by the general public for the purpose of
2532gathering oysters or clams to sell for a livelihood, at the time
2533they were planted by such grantee, his or her heirs or assigns,
2534such reefs or beds are declared to be the property of the state;
2535and when such beds or reefs exist within the territory
2536heretofore granted as above set forth, or that may hereafter be
2537leased, such grantee or lessee shall mark the boundaries of such
2538oyster and clam reefs or beds as may be designated by the
2539department as natural oyster or clam reefs or beds, clearly
2540defining the boundaries of the same, and shall post notice or
2541other device, as shall be required by the department, giving
2542notice to the public that such oyster or clam beds or reefs are
2543the property of the state, which said notice shall be maintained
2544from September 1 to June 1 of each and every year, on each
2545oyster bed or reef and on each clam bed for such period of each
2546year as the board may direct, at the expense of the grantee or
2547lessee. The department shall investigate all grants heretofore
2548made, and where, in its opinion, the lessee or grantee has not
2549bona fide complied with the law under which he or she received
2550his or her grant or lease, and the department is authorized and
2551required to institute legal proceedings to vacate the same, in
2552order to use such lands for the benefit of the public, subject
2553to the same dispositions as other bottoms.
2554     Section 53.  Section 372.995, Florida Statutes, is
2555renumbered as section 379.233, Florida Statutes, to read:
2556     379.233 372.995  Release of balloons.--
2557     (1)  The Legislature finds that the release into the
2558atmosphere of large numbers of balloons inflated with lighter-
2559than-air gases poses a danger and nuisance to the environment,
2560particularly to wildlife and marine animals.
2561     (2)  It is unlawful for any person, firm, or corporation to
2562intentionally release, organize the release, or intentionally
2563cause to be released within a 24-hour period 10 or more balloons
2564inflated with a gas that is lighter than air except for:
2565     (a)  Balloons released by a person on behalf of a
2566governmental agency or pursuant to a governmental contract for
2567scientific or meteorological purposes;
2568     (b)  Hot air balloons that are recovered after launching;
2569     (c)  Balloons released indoors; or
2570     (d)  Balloons that are either biodegradable or
2571photodegradable, as determined by rule of the Fish and Wildlife
2572Conservation Commission, and which are closed by a hand-tied
2573knot in the stem of the balloon without string, ribbon, or other
2574attachments. In the event that any balloons are released
2575pursuant to the exemption established in this paragraph, the
2576party responsible for the release shall make available to any
2577law enforcement officer evidence of the biodegradability or
2578photodegradability of said balloons in the form of a certificate
2579executed by the manufacturer. Failure to provide said evidence
2580shall be prima facie evidence of a violation of this act.
2581     (3)  Any person who violates subsection (2) is guilty of a
2582noncriminal infraction, punishable by a fine of $250.
2583     (4)  Any person may petition the circuit court to enjoin
2584the release of 10 or more balloons if that person is a citizen
2585of the county in which the balloons are to be released.
2586     Section 54.  Subsection (7) of section 370.021, Florida
2587Statutes, is renumbered as section 379.2341, Florida Statutes,
2588and amended to read:
2589     379.2341  Publications by the commission.--
2590     (7)  The commission is given authority, from time to time
2591in its discretion, to cause the statutory laws under its
2592jurisdiction, together with any rules promulgated by it, to be
2593published in pamphlet form for free distribution in this state.
2594The commission is authorized to make charges for technical and
2595educational publications and mimeographed material of use for
2596educational or reference purposes. Such charges shall be made at
2597the discretion of the commission. Such charges may be sufficient
2598to cover cost of preparation, printing, publishing, and
2599distribution. All moneys received for publications shall be
2600deposited into the fund from which the cost of the publication
2601was paid. The commission is further authorized to enter into
2602agreements with persons, firms, corporations, governmental
2603agencies, and other institutions whereby publications may be
2604exchanged reciprocally in lieu of payments for said
2605publications.
2606     Section 55.  Section 372.0222, Florida Statutes, is
2607renumbered as section 379.2342, Florida Statutes, to read:
2608     379.2342 372.0222  Private publication agreements;
2609advertising; costs of production.--
2610     (1)  The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission may
2611enter into agreements to secure the private publication of
2612public information brochures, pamphlets, audiotapes, videotapes,
2613and related materials for distribution without charge to the
2614public and, in furtherance thereof, is authorized to:
2615     (a)  Enter into agreements with private vendors for the
2616publication or production of such public information materials,
2617whereby the costs of publication or production will be borne in
2618whole or in part by the vendor or the vendor shall provide
2619additional compensation in return for the right of the vendor to
2620select, sell, and place advertising which publicizes products or
2621services related to and harmonious with the subject matter of
2622the publication.
2623     (b)  Retain the right, by agreement, to approve all
2624elements of any advertising placed in such public information
2625materials, including the form and content thereof.
2626     (2)(a)  Beginning January 1, 2005, the commission, with the
2627advice and assistance of the Florida Wildlife Magazine Advisory
2628Council, shall publish the Florida Wildlife Magazine. The
2629magazine shall be published at least on a quarterly basis in
2630hard-copy format and shall be available to the public by
2631subscription and retail distribution. The primary focus of the
2632magazine shall be to promote the heritage of hunting and fishing
2633in Florida. The magazine shall also disseminate information
2634regarding other outdoor recreational opportunities available to
2635Floridians and visitors.
2636     (b)  In order to offset the cost of publication and
2637distribution of the magazine, the commission, with the advice
2638and assistance of the Florida Wildlife Magazine Advisory
2639Council, is authorized to sell advertising for placement in the
2640magazine. The commission shall have the right to approve all
2641elements of any advertising placed in the magazine, including
2642the form and content thereof. The magazine shall include a
2643statement providing that the inclusion of advertising in the
2644magazine does not constitute an endorsement by the state or the
2645commission of the products or services so advertised. The
2646commission may charge an annual magazine subscription fee of up
2647to $25, a 2-year magazine subscription fee of up to $45, and a
26483-year magazine subscription fee of up to $60. The commission
2649may charge a retail per copy fee of up to $7. The provisions of
2650chapter 287 do not apply to the sale of advertising for
2651placement in the magazine. All revenues generated by the
2652magazine shall be credited to the State Game Trust Fund.
2653     (c)  The Florida Wildlife Magazine Advisory Council is
2654created within the commission to advise and make recommendations
2655to the commission regarding development, publication, and sale
2656of the Florida Wildlife Magazine. In order to accomplish this
2657purpose, the council shall provide recommendations to the
2658commission regarding:
2659     1.  The content of articles included in each edition of the
2660magazine.
2661     2.  Advertising proposed for each edition of the magazine.
2662     3.  Strategies to improve distribution and circulation of
2663the magazine.
2664     4.  Cost-reduction measures regarding publication of the
2665magazine.
2666     (d)  The Florida Wildlife Magazine Advisory Council shall
2667consist of seven members appointed by the commission, and
2668initial appointments shall be made no later than August 1, 2004.
2669When making initial appointments to the council and filling
2670vacancies, the commission shall appoint members to represent the
2671following interests: hunting; saltwater fishing; freshwater
2672fishing; recreational boating; recreational use of off-road
2673vehicles; hiking, biking, bird watching, or similar passive
2674activities; general business interests; and magazine publishing.
2675     (e)  Two of the initial appointees shall serve 2-year
2676terms, two of the initial appointees shall serve 3-year terms,
2677and three of the initial appointees shall serve 4-year terms.
2678Subsequent to the expiration of the initial terms, advisory
2679council appointees shall serve 4-year terms.
2680     (f)  The members of the advisory council shall elect a
2681chair annually.
2682     (g)  The council shall meet at least quarterly at the call
2683of its chair, at the request of a majority of its membership, or
2684at the request of the commission. A majority of the council
2685shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business.
2686     (h)  The commission shall provide the council with
2687clerical, expert, technical, or other services. All expenses of
2688the council shall be paid from appropriations made by the
2689Legislature to the commission. All vouchers shall be approved by
2690the executive director before submission to the Chief Financial
2691Officer for payment.
2692     (i)  Members of the council shall serve without
2693compensation but shall receive per diem and reimbursement for
2694travel expenses as provided in s. 112.061.
2695     (j)  Advisory council members may be reappointed. Advisory
2696council members shall serve at the pleasure of the commission.
2697     (3)  Any public information materials produced pursuant to
2698this section and containing advertising of any kind shall
2699include a statement providing that the inclusion of advertising
2700in such material does not constitute an endorsement by the state
2701or commission of the products or services so advertised.
2702     (4)  The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission may
2703enter into agreements with private vendors for vendor
2704advertisement for the purpose of offsetting expenses relating to
2705license issuance, and, in furtherance thereof, is authorized to:
2706     (a)  Retain the right, by agreement, to approve all
2707elements of such advertising, including the form or content.
2708     (b)  Require that any advertising of any kind contracted
2709pursuant to this section shall include a statement providing
2710that the advertising does not constitute an endorsement by the
2711state or commission of the products or services to be so
2712advertised.
2713     (5)  The commission shall collect, edit, publish, and print
2714pamphlets, papers, manuscripts, documents, books, monographs,
2715and other materials relating to fish and wildlife conservation
2716and may establish and impose a reasonable charge for such
2717materials to cover costs of production and distribution in whole
2718or part and may contract for the marketing, sale, and
2719distribution of such publications and materials; except that no
2720charge shall be imposed for materials designed to provide the
2721public with essential information concerning fish and wildlife
2722regulations and matters of public safety.
2723     (6)  The commission shall provide services and information
2724designed to inform Floridians and visitors about Florida's
2725unique and diverse fish, game, and wildlife, and make it
2726available by means of commonly used media. For the
2727accomplishment of those purposes, the commission may make
2728expenditures to:
2729     (a)  Encourage and cooperate with public and private
2730organizations or groups to publicize to residents and visitors
2731the diversity of fish, game, and wildlife, and related
2732recreation opportunities of the state, including the
2733establishment of and expenditure for a program of cooperative
2734advertising or sponsorships, or partnerships with the public and
2735private organizations and groups in accordance with rules
2736adopted by the commission under chapter 120.
2737     (b)  Charge and collect a reasonable fee for researching or
2738compiling information or other services which, in its judgment,
2739should not be free to those requesting the information,
2740research, handling, material, publication, or other services.
2741Any amounts of money received by the commission from such
2742sources shall be restored to the appropriations of the
2743commission, and any unexpended funds shall be deposited into the
2744State Game Trust Fund and made available to the commission for
2745use in performing its duties, powers, and purposes.
2746     (c)  Charge and collect registration fees at conferences,
2747seminars, and other meetings conducted in furtherance of the
2748duties, powers, and purposes of the commission. Any funds
2749collected under this paragraph which remain unexpended after the
2750expenses of the conference, seminar, or meeting have been paid
2751shall be deposited into the State Game Trust Fund and made
2752available to the commission for use in performing its duties,
2753powers, and purposes.
2754     (d)  Purchase and distribute promotional items to increase
2755public awareness regarding boating safety and other programs
2756that promote public safety or resource conservation.
2757     (7)  Notwithstanding the provisions of part I of chapter
2758287, the commission may adopt rules for the purpose of entering
2759into contracts that are primarily for promotional and
2760advertising services and promotional events which may include
2761the authority to negotiate costs with offerors of such services
2762and commodities who have been determined to be qualified on the
2763basis of technical merit, creative ability, and professional
2764competency.
2765     Section 56.  Section 370.1103, Florida Statutes, is
2766renumbered as section 379.2351, Florida Statutes, to read:
2767     379.2351 370.1103  Land-based commercial and recreational
2768fishing activities; legislative findings and purpose;
2769definitions; legal protection; local ordinances; prohibited
2770activity.--
2771     (1)  LEGISLATIVE FINDINGS AND PURPOSE.--The Legislature
2772finds that commercial and recreational fishing constitute
2773activities of statewide importance and that the continuation of
2774commercial and recreational fishing will benefit the health and
2775welfare of the people of this state. The Legislature further
2776finds that commercial and recreational fishing operations
2777conducted in developing and urbanizing areas are potentially
2778subject to curtailment as a result of local government zoning
2779and nuisance ordinances which may unreasonably force the closure
2780of productive commercial and recreational fishing operations. It
2781is the purpose of this act to prevent the curtailment or
2782abolishment of commercial and recreational fishing operations
2783solely because the area in which they are located has changed in
2784character or the operations are displeasing to neighboring
2785residents.
2786     (2)  DEFINITIONS.--As used in this act, "commercial fishing
2787operation" means any type of activity conducted on land,
2788requiring the location or storage of commercial fishing
2789equipment such as fishing vessels, fishing gear, docks, piers,
2790loading areas, landing areas, and cold storage facilities,
2791including any activity necessary to prepare finfish or shellfish
2792for refrigeration. This definition does not include operations
2793with the sole or primary function of processing seafood.
2794     (3)  LEGAL PROTECTION OF COMMERCIAL AND RECREATIONAL
2795FISHING OPERATIONS.--No commercial or recreational fishing
2796operation shall be declared a public or private nuisance solely
2797because of a change in ownership or a change in the character of
2798the property in or around the locality of the operation.
2799     (4)  LOCAL ORDINANCE.--No local governing authority shall
2800adopt any ordinance that declares any commercial or recreational
2801fishing operation to be a nuisance solely because it is a
2802commercial or recreational fishing operation, or any zoning
2803ordinance that unreasonably forces the closure of any commercial
2804or recreational fishing operation. Nothing in this act shall
2805prevent a local government from regulating commercial and
2806recreational fishing operations, including by requiring the use
2807of methods, structures, or appliances where such use will
2808prevent, ameliorate, or remove conditions which create or may
2809create a nuisance or, pursuant to the applicable local zoning
2810code, by declaring a commercial or recreational fishing
2811operation to be a nonconforming use.
2812     (5)  WHEN EXPANSION OF OPERATION NOT PERMITTED.--This act
2813shall not be construed to permit an existing commercial or
2814recreational fishing operation to change to a larger operation
2815with regard to emitting more noise or odor, where such change
2816violates local ordinances or regulations or creates a nuisance.
2817     Section 57.  Section 370.27, Florida Statutes, is
2818renumbered as section 379.2352, Florida Statutes, to read:
2819     379.2352 370.27  State employment; priority consideration
2820for qualified displaced employees of the saltwater fishing
2821industry.--All state agencies must give priority consideration
2822to any job applicant who is able to document the loss of full-
2823time employment in the commercial saltwater fishing industry as
2824a result of the adoption of the constitutional amendment
2825limiting the use of nets to harvest marine species, provided the
2826applicant meets the minimum requirements for the position
2827sought.
2828     Section 58.  Section 370.28, Florida Statutes, is
2829renumbered as section 379.2353, Florida Statutes, to read:
2830     379.2353 370.28  Enterprise zone designation; communities
2831adversely impacted by net limitations.--
2832     (1)  The Office of Tourism, Trade, and Economic Development
2833is directed to identify communities suffering adverse impacts
2834from the adoption of the constitutional amendment limiting the
2835use of nets to harvest marine species.
2836     (2)(a)  Such communities having a population of fewer than
28377,500 persons and such communities in rural and coastal counties
2838with a county population of fewer than 25,000 may apply to the
2839Office of Tourism, Trade, and Economic Development by August 15,
28401996, for the designation of an area as an enterprise zone. The
2841community must comply with the requirements of s. 290.0055,
2842except that, for a community having a total population of 7,500
2843persons or more but fewer than 20,000 persons, the selected area
2844may not exceed 5 square miles. Notwithstanding the provisions of
2845s. 290.0065, limiting the total number of enterprise zones
2846designated and the number of enterprise zones within a
2847population category, the Office of Tourism, Trade, and Economic
2848Development may designate an enterprise zone in eight of the
2849identified communities. The governing body having jurisdiction
2850over such area shall create an enterprise zone development
2851agency pursuant to s. 290.0056 and submit a strategic plan
2852pursuant to s. 290.0057. Enterprise zones designated pursuant to
2853this section shall be effective January 1, 1997. Any enterprise
2854zone designated under this paragraph having an effective date on
2855or before January 1, 2005, shall continue to exist until
2856December 31, 2005, but shall cease to exist on December 31,
28572005. Any enterprise zone redesignated on or after January 1,
28582006, must do so in accordance with the Florida Enterprise Zone
2859Act.
2860     (b)  Notwithstanding any provisions of this section to the
2861contrary, communities in coastal counties with a county
2862population greater than 20,000, which can demonstrate that the
2863community has historically been a fishing community and has
2864therefore had a direct adverse impact from the adoption of the
2865constitutional amendment limiting the use of nets, shall also be
2866eligible to apply for designation of an area as an enterprise
2867zone. The community must comply with the requirements of s.
2868290.0055, except s. 290.0055(3). Such communities shall apply to
2869the Office of Tourism, Trade, and Economic Development by August
287015, 1996. The office may designate one enterprise zone under
2871this paragraph, which shall be effective January 1, 1997, and
2872which shall be in addition to the eight zones authorized under
2873paragraph (a). Any enterprise zone designated under this
2874paragraph having an effective date on or before January 1, 2005,
2875shall continue to exist until December 31, 2005, but shall cease
2876to exist on that date. Any enterprise zone redesignated on or
2877after January 1, 2006, must do so in accordance with the Florida
2878Enterprise Zone Act. The governing body having jurisdiction over
2879such area shall create an enterprise zone development agency
2880pursuant to s. 290.0056 and submit a strategic plan pursuant to
2881s. 290.0057.
2882     (3)  For the purpose of nominating and designating areas
2883pursuant to subsection (2), the requirements set out in s.
2884290.0058(2) shall not apply.
2885     (4)  Notwithstanding the time limitations contained in
2886chapters 212 and 220, a business eligible to receive tax credits
2887under this section from January 1, 1997, to June 1, 1998, must
2888submit an application for the tax credits by December 1, 1998.
2889All other requirements of the enterprise zone program apply to
2890such a business.
2891     Section 59.  Subsection (9) of section 370.021, Florida
2892Statutes, is renumbered as section 379.236, Florida Statutes,
2893and amended to read:
2894     379.236  Retention, destruction, and reproduction of
2895commission records.--
2896     (9)  Records and documents of the commission created in
2897compliance with and in the implementation of this chapter or
2898former chapters 370, 371, or 372 chapter 371 shall be retained
2899by the commission as specified in record retention schedules
2900established under the general provisions of chapters 119 and
2901257. Such records retained by the Department of Environmental
2902Protection on July 1, 1999, shall be transferred to the
2903commission. Further, the commission is authorized to:
2904     (1)(a)  Destroy, or otherwise dispose of, those records and
2905documents in conformity with the approved retention schedules.
2906     (2)(b)  Photograph, microphotograph, or reproduce such
2907records and documents on film, as authorized and directed by the
2908approved retention schedules, whereby each page will be exposed
2909in exact conformity with the original records and documents
2910retained in compliance with the provisions of this section.
2911Photographs or microphotographs in the form of film or print of
2912any records, made in compliance with the provisions of this
2913section, shall have the same force and effect as the originals
2914thereof would have and shall be treated as originals for the
2915purpose of their admissibility in evidence. Duly certified or
2916authenticated reproductions of such photographs or
2917microphotographs shall be admitted in evidence equally with the
2918original photographs or microphotographs. The impression of the
2919seal of the commission on a certificate made pursuant to the
2920provisions hereof and signed by the executive director of the
2921commission shall entitle the same to be received in evidence in
2922all courts and in all proceedings in this state and shall be
2923prima facie evidence of all factual matters set forth in the
2924certificate. A certificate may relate to one or more records, as
2925set forth in the certificate, or in a schedule continued on an
2926attachment to the certificate.
2927     (3)(c)  Furnish certified copies of such records for a fee
2928of $1 which shall be deposited in the Marine Resources
2929Conservation Trust Fund.
2930     Section 60.  Subsection (10) of section 370.021, Florida
2931Statutes, renumbered as section 379.237, Florida Statutes, and
2932amended to read:
2933     379.237  Courts of equity may enjoin.--
2934     (10)  COURTS OF EQUITY MAY ENJOIN.--Courts of equity in
2935this state have jurisdiction to enforce the conservation laws of
2936this state by injunction.
2937     Section 61.  Section 372.85, Florida Statutes, is
2938renumbered as section 379.29, Florida Statutes, to read:
2939     379.29 372.85  Contaminating fresh waters.--
2940     (1)  It shall be unlawful for any person or persons, firm
2941or corporation to cause any dyestuff, coal tar, oil, sawdust,
2942poison, or deleterious substances to be thrown, run, or drained
2943into any of the fresh running waters of this state in quantities
2944sufficient to injure, stupefy, or kill fish which may inhabit
2945the same at or below the point where any such substances are
2946discharged, or caused to flow or be thrown into such waters;
2947provided, that it shall not be a violation of this section for
2948any person, firm, or corporation engaged in any mining industry
2949to cause any water handled or used in any branch of such
2950industry to be discharged on the surface of land where such
2951industry or branch thereof is being carried on under such
2952precautionary measures as shall be approved by the Fish and
2953Wildlife Conservation Commission.
2954     (2)  Any person, firm or corporation violating any of the
2955provisions of this section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor of
2956the second degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s.
2957775.083 for the first offense, and for the second or subsequent
2958offense shall be guilty of a misdemeanor of the first degree,
2959punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083.
2960     Section 62.  Part II of chapter 379, Florida Statutes,
2961consisting of sections 379.2401, 379.2402, 379.2411, 379.2412,
2962379.2413, 379.2421, 379.2422, 379.2423, 379.2424, 379.2425,
2963379.2431, 379.2432, 379.2433, 379.244, 379.245, 379.246,
2964379.247, 379.248, 379.249, 379.25, 379.2511, 379.2512, 379.2521,
2965379.2522, 379.2523, 379.2524, and 379.2525, is created to read:
2966
PART II
2967
MARINE LIFE
2968
2969     Section 63.  Section 370.025, Florida Statutes, is
2970renumbered as section 379.2401, Florida Statutes, to read:
2971     379.2401 370.025  Marine fisheries; policy and standards.--
2972     (1)  The Legislature hereby declares the policy of the
2973state to be management and preservation of its renewable marine
2974fishery resources, based upon the best available information,
2975emphasizing protection and enhancement of the marine and
2976estuarine environment in such a manner as to provide for optimum
2977sustained benefits and use to all the people of this state for
2978present and future generations.
2979     (2)  The commission is instructed to make recommendations
2980annually to the Governor and the Legislature regarding marine
2981fisheries research priorities and funding. All administrative
2982and enforcement responsibilities which are unaffected by the
2983specific provisions of this act are the responsibility of the
2984commission.
2985     (3)  All rules relating to saltwater fisheries adopted by
2986the commission shall be consistent with the following standards:
2987     (a)  The paramount concern of conservation and management
2988measures shall be the continuing health and abundance of the
2989marine fisheries resources of this state.
2990     (b)  Conservation and management measures shall be based
2991upon the best information available, including biological,
2992sociological, economic, and other information deemed relevant by
2993the commission.
2994     (c)  Conservation and management measures shall permit
2995reasonable means and quantities of annual harvest, consistent
2996with maximum practicable sustainable stock abundance on a
2997continuing basis.
2998     (d)  When possible and practicable, stocks of fish shall be
2999managed as a biological unit.
3000     (e)  Conservation and management measures shall assure
3001proper quality control of marine resources that enter commerce.
3002     (f)  State marine fishery management plans shall be
3003developed to implement management of important marine fishery
3004resources.
3005     (g)  Conservation and management decisions shall be fair
3006and equitable to all the people of this state and carried out in
3007such a manner that no individual, corporation, or entity
3008acquires an excessive share of such privileges.
3009     (h)  Federal fishery management plans and fishery
3010management plans of other states or interstate commissions
3011should be considered when developing state marine fishery
3012management plans. Inconsistencies should be avoided unless it is
3013determined that it is in the best interest of the fisheries or
3014residents of this state to be inconsistent.
3015     Section 64.  Section 370.0607, Florida Statutes, is
3016renumbered as section 379.2402, Florida Statutes, to read:
3017     379.2402 370.0607  Marine information system.--The Fish and
3018Wildlife Conservation Commission shall establish by rule a
3019marine information system in conjunction with the licensing
3020program to gather marine fisheries data.
3021     Section 65.  Section 370.101, Florida Statutes, is
3022renumbered as section 379.2411, Florida Statutes, and amended to
3023read:
3024     379.2411 370.101  Saltwater fish; regulations.--
3025     (1)  The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is
3026authorized to establish weight equivalencies when minimum
3027lengths of saltwater fish are established by law, in those cases
3028where the fish are artificially cultivated.
3029     (2)  A special activity license may be issued by the
3030commission pursuant to s. 379.361 370.06 for catching and
3031possession of fish protected by law after it has first
3032established that such protected specimens are to be used as
3033stock for artificial cultivation.
3034     (3)  A permit may not be issued pursuant to subsection (2)
3035until the commission determines that the artificial cultivation
3036activity complies with the provisions of ss. 253.67-253.75 and
3037any other specific provisions contained within this chapter
3038regarding leases, licenses, or permits for maricultural
3039activities of each saltwater fish, so that the public interest
3040in such fish stocks is fully protected.
3041     Section 66.  Section 370.102, Florida Statutes, is
3042renumbered as section 379.2412, Florida Statutes, and amended to
3043read:
3044     379.2412 370.102  State preemption of power to
3045regulate.--The power to regulate the taking or possession of
3046saltwater fish, as defined in s. 379.101 370.01, is expressly
3047reserved to the state. This section does not prohibit a local
3048government from prohibiting, for reasons of protecting the
3049public health, safety, or welfare, saltwater fishing from real
3050property owned by that local government.
3051     Section 67.  Section 370.11, Florida Statutes, is
3052renumbered as section 379.2413, Florida Statutes, and amended to
3053read:
3054     379.2413  Catching food fish for the purposes of making oil
3055370.11  Fish; regulation.--
3056     (1)  CATCHING FOOD FISH FOR PURPOSES OF MAKING OIL
3057PROHIBITED.--No person shall take any food fish from the waters
3058under the jurisdiction of the state, for the purpose of making
3059oil, fertilizer or compost therefrom. Purse seines may be used,
3060for the taking of nonfood fish for the purpose of making oil,
3061fertilizer or compost.
3062     (2)  REGULATION; FISH; TARPON, ETC.--No person may sell,
3063offer for sale, barter, exchange for merchandise, transport for
3064sale, either within or without the state, offer to purchase or
3065purchase any species of fish known as tarpon (Tarpon atlanticus)
3066provided, however, any one person may carry out of the state as
3067personal baggage or transport within or out of the state not
3068more than two tarpon if they are not being transported for sale.
3069The possession of more than two tarpon by any one person is
3070unlawful; provided, however, any person may catch an unlimited
3071number of tarpon if they are immediately returned uninjured to
3072the water and released where the same are caught. No common
3073carrier in the state shall knowingly receive for transportation
3074or transport, within or without the state, from any one person
3075for shipment more than two tarpon, except as hereinafter
3076provided. It is expressly provided that any lawful established
3077taxidermist, in the conduct of taxidermy, may be permitted to
3078move or transport any reasonable number of tarpon at any time
3079and in any manner he or she may desire, as specimens for
3080mounting; provided, however, satisfactory individual ownership
3081of the fish so moved or transported can be established by such
3082taxidermist at any time upon demand. Common carriers shall
3083accept for shipment tarpon from a taxidermist when statement of
3084individual ownership involved accompanies bill of lading or
3085other papers controlling the shipment. The Fish and Wildlife
3086Conservation Commission may, in its discretion, upon application
3087issue permits for the taking and transporting of tarpon for
3088scientific purposes.
3089     Section 68.  Section 370.08, Florida Statutes, is
3090renumbered as section 379.2421, Florida Statutes, and amended to
3091read:
3092     379.2421 370.08  Fishers and equipment; regulation.--
3093     (1)  ILLEGAL POSSESSION OF SEINES AND NETS.--No person may
3094have in his or her custody or possession in any county of this
3095state any fishing seine or net, the use of which for fishing
3096purposes in such county is prohibited by law. Such possession
3097shall be evidence of a violation of this subsection by both the
3098owner thereof and the person using or possessing said net. The
3099provisions of this subsection shall not apply to shrimp nets, to
3100pound nets or purse nets when used in taking menhaden fish, to
3101seines used exclusively for taking herring, or to legal beach
3102seines used in the open gulf or Atlantic Ocean if the possession
3103of such nets is not prohibited in the county where found.
3104     (2)  STOP NETTING DEFINED; PROHIBITION.--
3105     (a)  It is unlawful for any person to obstruct any river,
3106creek, canal, pass, bayou or other waterway in this state by
3107placing or setting therein any screen, net, seine, rack, wire or
3108other device, or to use, set, or place any net or seine or
3109similar device of any kind, either singularly or in rotation or
3110one behind another in any manner whatsoever so as to prevent the
3111free passage of fish.
3112     (b)  It is unlawful for any person, while fishing or
3113attempting to fish for shrimp or saltwater fish, to attach or
3114otherwise secure a frame net, trawl net, trap net, or similar
3115device to any state road bridge or associated structure situated
3116over any saltwater body or to use more than one such net or
3117device while fishing from such bridge or structure. For the
3118purposes of this paragraph, a "frame net" is any net similar to
3119a hoop net, the mouth of which is held open by a frame, with a
3120trailing mesh net, of any size. Cast nets, dip nets, and similar
3121devices are specifically excluded from the operation of this
3122paragraph.
3123     (3)  USE OF PURSE SEINES, GILL NETS, POUND NETS, ETC.--No
3124person may take food fish within or without the waters of this
3125state with a purse seine, purse gill net, or other net using
3126rings or other devices on the lead line thereof, through which a
3127purse line is drawn, or pound net, or have any food fish so
3128taken in his or her possession for sale or shipment. The
3129provisions of this section shall not apply to shrimp nets or to
3130pound nets or purse seines when used for the taking of tuna or
3131menhaden fish only.
3132     (4)  RETURN OF FISH TO WATER.--All persons taking food fish
3133from any of the waters of this state by use of seines, nets, or
3134other fishing devices and not using any of such fish because of
3135size or other reasons shall immediately release and return such
3136fish alive to the water from which taken and no such fish may be
3137placed or deposited on any bank, shore, beach or other place out
3138of the water.
3139     (5)  THROWING EXPLOSIVES OR USE OF FIREARMS IN WATER FOR
3140PURPOSE OF KILLING FOOD FISH PROHIBITED.--No person may throw or
3141cause to be thrown, into any of the waters of this state, any
3142dynamite, lime, other explosives or discharge any firearms
3143whatsoever for the purpose of killing food fish therein. The
3144landing ashore or possession on the water by any person of any
3145food fish that has been damaged by explosives or the landing of
3146headless jewfish or grouper, if the grouper is taken for
3147commercial use, is prima facie evidence of violation of this
3148section.
3149     (5)(6)  SEINES, POCKET BUNTS.--In any counties where seines
3150are not prohibited on the open gulf or Atlantic Ocean, such
3151seines may have a pocket bunt on the middle of the seine of a
3152mesh size less than that provided by law.
3153     (6)(7)  ILLEGAL USE OF POISONS, DRUGS, OR CHEMICALS.--
3154     (a)  It is unlawful for any person to place poisons, drugs,
3155or other chemicals in the marine waters of this state unless
3156that person has first obtained a special activity license for
3157such use pursuant to s. 370.06 from the Fish and Wildlife
3158Conservation Commission.
3159     (b)  Upon application on forms furnished by the commission,
3160the commission may issue a license to use poisons, drugs, or
3161other chemicals in the marine waters of this state for the
3162purpose of capturing live marine species. The application and
3163license shall specify the area in which collecting will be done;
3164the drugs, chemicals, or poisons to be used; and the maximum
3165amounts and concentrations at each sampling.
3166     (7)(8)  PENALTIES.--A commercial harvester who violates
3167this section shall be punished under s. 379.407 370.021. Any
3168other person who violates this section commits a Level Two
3169violation under s. 379.401 372.83.
3170     Section 69.  Section 370.093, Florida Statutes, is
3171renumbered as section 379.2422, Florida Statutes, and amended to
3172read:
3173     379.2422 370.093  Illegal use of nets.--
3174     (1)  It is unlawful to take or harvest, or to attempt to
3175take or harvest, any marine life in Florida waters with any net
3176that is not consistent with the provisions of s. 16, Art. X of
3177the State Constitution.
3178     (2)(a)  Beginning July 1, 1998, it is also unlawful to take
3179or harvest, or to attempt to take or harvest, any marine life in
3180Florida waters with any net, as defined in subsection (3) and
3181any attachments to such net, that combined are larger than 500
3182square feet and have not been expressly authorized for such use
3183by rule of the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. The
3184use of currently legal shrimp trawls and purse seines outside
3185nearshore and inshore Florida waters shall continue to be legal
3186until the commission implements rules regulating those types of
3187gear.
3188     (b)  The use of gill or entangling nets of any size is
3189prohibited, as such nets are defined in s. 16, Art. X of the
3190State Constitution. Any net constructed wholly or partially of
3191monofilament or multistrand monofilament material, other than a
3192hand thrown cast net, or a handheld landing or dip net, shall be
3193considered to be an entangling net within the prohibition of s.
319416, Art. X of the State Constitution unless specifically
3195authorized by rule of the commission. Multistrand monofilament
3196material shall not be defined to include nets constructed of
3197braided or twisted nylon, cotton, linen twine, or polypropylene
3198twine.
3199     (c)  This subsection shall not be construed to apply to
3200aquaculture activities licenses issued pursuant to s. 379.2523
3201370.26.
3202     (3)  As used in s. 16, Art. X of the State Constitution and
3203this subsection, the term "net" or "netting" must be broadly
3204construed to include all manner or combination of mesh or
3205webbing or any other solid or semisolid fabric or other material
3206used to comprise a device that is used to take or harvest marine
3207life.
3208     (4)  Upon the arrest of any person for violation of this
3209subsection, the arresting officer shall seize the nets illegally
3210used. Upon conviction of the offender, the arresting authority
3211shall destroy the nets.
3212     (5)  Any person who violates this section shall be punished
3213as provided in s. 379.407(3) 370.021(3).
3214     (6)  The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is
3215granted authority to adopt rules pursuant to s. 379.2401 370.025
3216implementing this section and the prohibitions and restrictions
3217of s. 16, Art. X of the State Constitution.
3218     Section 70.  Section 370.092, Florida Statutes, is
3219renumbered as section 379.2423, Florida Statutes, and amended to
3220read:
3221     379.2423 370.092  Carriage of proscribed nets across
3222Florida waters.--
3223     (1)  This section applies to all vessels containing or
3224otherwise transporting in or on Florida waters any gill net or
3225other entangling net and to all vessels containing or otherwise
3226transporting in or on Florida waters any net containing more
3227than 500 square feet of mesh area the use of which is restricted
3228or prohibited by s. 16, Art. X of the State Constitution. This
3229section does not apply to vessels containing or otherwise
3230transporting in or on Florida waters dry nets which are rolled,
3231folded, or otherwise properly stowed in sealed containers so as
3232to make their immediate use as fishing implements impracticable.
3233     (2)  Every vessel containing or otherwise transporting in
3234or on Florida waters any gill net or other entangling net and
3235every vessel containing or otherwise transporting in or on
3236nearshore and inshore Florida waters any net containing more
3237than 500 square feet of mesh area shall proceed as directly,
3238continuously, and expeditiously as possible from the place where
3239the vessel is regularly docked, moored, or otherwise stored to
3240waters where the use of said nets is lawful and from waters
3241where the use of said nets is lawful back to the place where the
3242vessel is regularly docked, moored, or otherwise stored or back
3243to the licensed wholesale dealer where the catch is to be sold.
3244Exceptions shall be provided for docked vessels, for vessels
3245which utilize nets in a licensed aquaculture operation, and for
3246vessels containing trawl nets as long as the trawl's doors or
3247frame are not deployed in the water. Otherwise, hovering,
3248drifting, and other similar activities inconsistent with the
3249direct, continuous, and expeditious transit of such vessels
3250shall be evidence of the unlawful use of such nets. The presence
3251of fish in such a net is not evidence of the unlawful use of the
3252net if the vessel is otherwise in compliance with this section.
3253     (3)  Notwithstanding subsections (1) and (2), unless
3254authorized by rule of the Fish and Wildlife Conservation
3255Commission, it is a major violation under this section,
3256punishable as provided in s. 379.407(3) 370.021(3), for any
3257person, firm, or corporation to possess any gill or entangling
3258net, or any seine net larger than 500 square feet in mesh area,
3259on any airboat or on any other vessel less than 22 feet in
3260length and on any vessel less than 25 feet if primary power of
3261the vessel is mounted forward of the vessel center point. Gill
3262or entangling nets shall be as defined in s. 16, Art. X of the
3263State Constitution, s. 379.2422(2)(b) 370.093(2)(b), or in a
3264rule of the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
3265implementing s. 16, Art. X of the State Constitution. Vessel
3266length shall be determined in accordance with current United
3267States Coast Guard regulations specified in the Code of Federal
3268Regulations or as titled by the State of Florida. The Marine
3269Fisheries Commission is directed to initiate by July 1, 1998,
3270rulemaking to adjust by rule the use of gear on vessels longer
3271than 22 feet where the primary power of the vessel is mounted
3272forward of the vessel center point in order to prevent the
3273illegal use of gill and entangling nets in state waters and to
3274provide reasonable opportunities for the use of legal net gear
3275in adjacent federal waters.
3276     (4)  The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission shall
3277adopt rules to prohibit the possession and sale of mullet taken
3278in illegal gill or entangling nets. Violations of such rules
3279shall be punishable as provided in s. 379.407(3) 370.021(3).
3280     (5)  The commission has authority to adopt rules pursuant
3281to ss. 120.536(1) and 120.54 to implement the provisions of this
3282section.
3283     Section 71.  Subsection (1) of section 370.143, Florida
3284Statutes, is renumbered as section 379.2424, Florida Statutes,
3285and amended to read:
3286     379.2424  Retrieval of spiny lobster, stone crab, blue
3287crab, and black sea bass traps during closed season; commission
3288authority.--
3289     (1)  The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is
3290authorized to implement a trap retrieval program for retrieval
3291of spiny lobster, stone crab, blue crab, and black sea bass
3292traps remaining in the water during the closed season for each
3293species. The commission is authorized to contract with outside
3294agents for the program operation.
3295     Section 72.  Section 370.172, Florida Statutes, is
3296renumbered as section 379.2425, Florida Statutes, to read:
3297     379.2425 370.172  Spearfishing; definition; limitations;
3298penalty.--
3299     (1)  For the purposes of this section, "spearfishing" means
3300the taking of any saltwater fish through the instrumentality of
3301a spear, gig, or lance operated by a person swimming at or below
3302the surface of the water.
3303     (2)(a)  Spearfishing is prohibited within the boundaries of
3304the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, the waters of Collier
3305County, and the area in Monroe County known as Upper Keys, which
3306includes all salt waters under the jurisdiction of the Fish and
3307Wildlife Conservation Commission beginning at the county line
3308between Dade and Monroe Counties and running south, including
3309all of the keys down to and including Long Key.
3310     (b)  For the purposes of this subsection, the possession in
3311the water of a spear, gig, or lance by a person swimming at or
3312below the surface of the water in a prohibited area is prima
3313facie evidence of a violation of the provisions of this
3314subsection regarding spearfishing.
3315     (3)  The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission shall
3316have the power to establish restricted areas when it is
3317determined that safety hazards exist or when needs are
3318determined by biological findings. Restricted areas shall be
3319established only after an investigation has been conducted and
3320upon application by the governing body of the county or
3321municipality in which the restricted areas are to be located and
3322one publication in a local newspaper of general circulation in
3323said county or municipality in addition to any other notice
3324required by law. Prior to promulgation of regulations, the local
3325governing body of the area affected shall agree to post and
3326maintain notices in the area affected.
3327     Section 73.  Section 370.12, Florida Statutes, is
3328renumbered as section 379.2431, Florida Statutes, and amended to
3329read:
3330     379.2431 370.12  Marine animals; regulation.--
3331     (1)  PROTECTION OF MARINE TURTLES.--
3332     (a)  This subsection may be cited as the "Marine Turtle
3333Protection Act."
3334     (b)  The Legislature intends, pursuant to the provisions of
3335this subsection, to ensure that the Fish and Wildlife
3336Conservation Commission has the appropriate authority and
3337resources to implement its responsibilities under the recovery
3338plans of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service for the
3339following species of marine turtle:
3340     1.  Atlantic loggerhead turtle (Caretta caretta).
3341     2.  Atlantic green turtle (Chelonia mydas).
3342     3.  Leatherback turtle (Dermochelys coriacea).
3343     4.  Atlantic hawksbill turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata).
3344     5.  Atlantic ridley turtle (Lepidochelys kempi).
3345     (c)  As used in this subsection, the following phrases have
3346the following meanings:
3347     1.  A "properly accredited person" is:
3348     a.  Students of colleges or universities whose studies with
3349saltwater animals are under the direction of their teacher or
3350professor; or
3351     b.  Scientific or technical faculty of public or private
3352colleges or universities; or
3353     c.  Scientific or technical employees of private research
3354institutions and consulting firms; or
3355     d.  Scientific or technical employees of city, county,
3356state, or federal research or regulatory agencies; or
3357     e.  Members in good standing or recognized and properly
3358chartered conservation organizations, the Audubon Society, or
3359the Sierra Club; or
3360     f.  Persons affiliated with aquarium facilities or museums,
3361or contracted as an agent therefor, which are open to the public
3362with or without an admission fee; or
3363     g.  Persons without specific affiliations listed above, but
3364who are recognized by the commission for their contributions to
3365marine conservation such as scientific or technical
3366publications, or through a history of cooperation with the
3367commission in conservation programs such as turtle nesting
3368surveys, or through advanced educational programs such as high
3369school marine science centers.
3370     2.  "Take" means an act that actually kills or injures
3371marine turtles, and includes significant habitat modification or
3372degradation that kills or injures marine turtles by
3373significantly impairing essential behavioral patterns, such as
3374breeding, feeding, or sheltering.
3375     (d)  Except as authorized in this paragraph, or unless
3376otherwise provided by the Federal Endangered Species Act or its
3377implementing regulations, a person, firm, or corporation may
3378not:
3379     1.  Knowingly possess the eggs of any marine turtle species
3380described in this subsection.
3381     2.  Knowingly take, disturb, mutilate, destroy, cause to be
3382destroyed, transfer, sell, offer to sell, molest, or harass any
3383marine turtles or the eggs or nest of any marine turtles
3384described in this subsection.
3385     3.  The commission may issue a special permit or loan
3386agreement to any person, firm, or corporation, to enable the
3387holder to possess a marine turtle or parts thereof, including
3388nests, eggs, or hatchlings, for scientific, education, or
3389exhibition purposes, or for conservation activities such as the
3390relocation of nests, eggs, or marine turtles away from
3391construction sites. Notwithstanding other provisions of law, the
3392commission may issue such special permit or loan agreement to
3393any properly accredited person as defined in paragraph (c) for
3394the purposes of marine turtle conservation.
3395     4.  The commission shall have the authority to adopt rules
3396pursuant to chapter 120 to prescribe terms, conditions, and
3397restrictions for marine turtle conservation, and to permit the
3398possession of marine turtles or parts thereof.
3399     (e)1.  Any person, firm, or corporation that commits any
3400act prohibited in paragraph (d) involving any egg of any marine
3401turtle species described in this subsection shall pay a penalty
3402of $100 per egg in addition to other penalties provided in this
3403paragraph.
3404     2.  Any person, firm, or corporation that illegally
3405possesses 11 or fewer of any eggs of any marine turtle species
3406described in this subsection commits a first degree misdemeanor,
3407punishable as provided in ss. 775.082 and 775.083.
3408     3.  For a second or subsequent violation of subparagraph
34092., any person, firm, or corporation that illegally possesses 11
3410or fewer of any eggs of any marine turtle species described in
3411this subsection commits a third degree felony, punishable as
3412provided in s. 775.082, s. 775.083, or s. 775.084.
3413     4.  Any person, firm, or corporation that illegally
3414possesses more than 11 of any eggs of any marine turtle species
3415described in this subsection commits a third degree felony,
3416punishable as provided in s. 775.082, s. 775.083, or s. 775.084.
3417     5.  Any person, firm, or corporation that illegally takes,
3418disturbs, mutilates, destroys, causes to be destroyed,
3419transfers, sells, offers to sell, molests, or harasses any
3420marine turtle species, or the eggs or nest of any marine turtle
3421species as described in this subsection, commits a third degree
3422felony, punishable as provided in s. 775.082, s. 775.083, or s.
3423775.084.
3424     6.  Notwithstanding s. 777.04, any person, firm, or
3425corporation that solicits or conspires with another person,
3426firm, or corporation, to commit an act prohibited by this
3427subsection commits a felony of the third degree, punishable as
3428provided in s. 775.082, s. 775.083, or s. 775.084.
3429     7.  The proceeds from the penalties assessed pursuant to
3430this paragraph shall be deposited into the Marine Resources
3431Conservation Trust Fund.
3432     (f)  Any application for a Department of Environmental
3433Protection permit or other type of approval for an activity that
3434affects marine turtles or their nests or habitat shall be
3435subject to conditions and requirements for marine turtle
3436protection as part of the permitting or approval process.
3437     (g)  The Department of Environmental Protection may
3438condition the nature, timing, and sequence of construction of
3439permitted activities to provide protection to nesting marine
3440turtles and hatchlings and their habitat pursuant to the
3441provisions of s. 161.053(5). When the department is considering
3442a permit for a beach restoration, beach renourishment, or inlet
3443sand transfer project and the applicant has had an active marine
3444turtle nest relocation program or the applicant has agreed to
3445and has the ability to administer a program, the department must
3446not restrict the timing of the project. Where appropriate, the
3447department, in accordance with the applicable rules of the Fish
3448and Wildlife Conservation Commission, shall require as a
3449condition of the permit that the applicant relocate and monitor
3450all turtle nests that would be affected by the beach
3451restoration, beach renourishment, or sand transfer activities.
3452Such relocation and monitoring activities shall be conducted in
3453a manner that ensures successful hatching. This limitation on
3454the department's authority applies only on the Atlantic coast of
3455Florida.
3456     (h)  The department shall recommend denial of a permit
3457application if the activity would result in a "take" as defined
3458in this subsection, unless, as provided for in the federal
3459Endangered Species Act and its implementing regulations, such
3460taking is incidental to, and not the purpose of, the carrying
3461out of an otherwise lawful activity.
3462     (i)  The department shall give special consideration to
3463beach preservation and beach nourishment projects that restore
3464habitat of endangered marine turtle species. Nest relocation
3465shall be considered for all such projects in urbanized areas.
3466When an applicant for a beach restoration, beach renourishment,
3467or inlet sand transfer project has had an active marine turtle
3468nest relocation program or the applicant has agreed to have and
3469has the ability to administer a program, the department in
3470issuing a permit for a project must not restrict the timing of
3471the project. Where appropriate, the department, in accordance
3472with the applicable rules of the Fish and Wildlife Conservation
3473Commission, shall require as a condition of the permit that the
3474applicant relocate and monitor all turtle nests that would be
3475affected by the beach restoration, beach renourishment, or sand
3476transfer activities. Such relocation and monitoring activities
3477shall be conducted in a manner that ensures successful hatching.
3478This limitation on the department's authority applies only on
3479the Atlantic coast of Florida.
3480     (2)  PROTECTION OF MANATEES OR SEA COWS.--
3481     (a)  This subsection shall be known and may be cited as the
3482"Florida Manatee Sanctuary Act."
3483     (b)  The State of Florida is hereby declared to be a refuge
3484and sanctuary for the manatee, the "Florida state marine
3485mammal." The protections extended to and authorized on behalf of
3486the manatee by this act are independent of, and therefore are
3487not contingent upon, its status as a state or federal listed
3488species.
3489     (c)  Whenever the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
3490is satisfied that the interest of science will be subserved, and
3491that the application for a permit to possess a manatee or sea
3492cow (Trichechus manatus) is for a scientific or propagational
3493purpose and should be granted, and after concurrence by the
3494United States Department of the Interior, the commission may
3495grant to any person making such application a special permit to
3496possess a manatee or sea cow, which permit shall specify the
3497exact number which shall be maintained in captivity.
3498     (d)  Except as may be authorized by the terms of a valid
3499state permit issued pursuant to paragraph (c) or by the terms of
3500a valid federal permit, it is unlawful for any person at any
3501time, by any means, or in any manner intentionally or
3502negligently to annoy, molest, harass, or disturb or attempt to
3503molest, harass, or disturb any manatee; injure or harm or
3504attempt to injure or harm any manatee; capture or collect or
3505attempt to capture or collect any manatee; pursue, hunt, wound,
3506or kill or attempt to pursue, hunt, wound, or kill any manatee;
3507or possess, literally or constructively, any manatee or any part
3508of any manatee.
3509     (e)  Any gun, net, trap, spear, harpoon, boat of any kind,
3510aircraft, automobile of any kind, other motorized vehicle,
3511chemical, explosive, electrical equipment, scuba or other
3512subaquatic gear, or other instrument, device, or apparatus of
3513any kind or description used in violation of any provision of
3514paragraph (d) may be forfeited upon conviction. The foregoing
3515provisions relating to seizure and forfeiture of vehicles,
3516vessels, equipment, or supplies do not apply when such vehicles,
3517vessels, equipment, or supplies are owned by, or titled in the
3518name of, innocent parties; and such provisions shall not vitiate
3519any valid lien, retain title contract, or chattel mortgage on
3520such vehicles, vessels, equipment, or supplies if such lien,
3521retain title contract, or chattel mortgage is property of public
3522record at the time of the seizure.
3523     (f)1.  Except for emergency rules adopted under s. 120.54,
3524all proposed rules of the commission for which a notice of
3525intended agency action is filed proposing to govern the speed
3526and operation of motorboats for purposes of manatee protection
3527shall be submitted to the counties in which the proposed rules
3528will take effect for review by local rule review committees.
3529     2.  No less than 60 days prior to filing a notice of rule
3530development in the Florida Administrative Weekly, as provided in
3531s. 120.54(3)(a), the commission shall notify the counties for
3532which a rule to regulate the speed and operation of motorboats
3533for the protection of manatees is proposed. A county so notified
3534shall establish a rule review committee or several counties may
3535combine rule review committees.
3536     3.  The county commission of each county in which a rule to
3537regulate the speed and operation of motorboats for the
3538protection of manatees is proposed shall designate a rule review
3539committee. The designated voting membership of the rule review
3540committee must be comprised of waterway users, such as fishers,
3541boaters, water skiers, other waterway users, as compared to the
3542number of manatee and other environmental advocates. A county
3543commission may designate an existing advisory group as the rule
3544review committee. With regard to each committee, fifty percent
3545of the voting members shall be manatee advocates and other
3546environmental advocates, and fifty percent of the voting members
3547shall be waterway users.
3548     4.  The county shall invite other state, federal, county,
3549municipal, or local agency representatives to participate as
3550nonvoting members of the local rule review committee.
3551     5.  The county shall provide logistical and administrative
3552staff support to the local rule review committee and may request
3553technical assistance from commission staff.
3554     6.  Each local rule review committee shall elect a chair
3555and recording secretary from among its voting members.
3556     7.  Commission staff shall submit the proposed rule and
3557supporting data used to develop the rule to the local rule
3558review committees.
3559     8.  The local rule review committees shall have 60 days
3560from the date of receipt of the proposed rule to submit a
3561written report to commission members and staff. The local rule
3562review committees may use supporting data supplied by the
3563commission, as well as public testimony which may be collected
3564by the committee, to develop the written report. The report may
3565contain recommended changes to proposed manatee protection zones
3566or speed zones, including a recommendation that no rule be
3567adopted, if that is the decision of the committee.
3568     9.  Prior to filing a notice of proposed rulemaking in the
3569Florida Administrative Weekly as provided in s. 120.54(3)(a),
3570the commission staff shall provide a written response to the
3571local rule review committee reports to the appropriate counties,
3572to the commission members, and to the public upon request.
3573     10.  In conducting a review of the proposed manatee
3574protection rule, the local rule review committees may address
3575such factors as whether the best available scientific
3576information supports the proposed rule, whether seasonal zones
3577are warranted, and such other factors as may be necessary to
3578balance manatee protection and public access to and use of the
3579waters being regulated under the proposed rule.
3580     11.  The written reports submitted by the local rule review
3581committees shall contain a majority opinion. If the majority
3582opinion is not unanimous, a minority opinion shall also be
3583included.
3584     12.  The members of the commission shall fully consider any
3585timely submitted written report submitted by a local rule review
3586committee prior to authorizing commission staff to move forward
3587with proposed rulemaking and shall fully consider any timely
3588submitted subsequent reports of the committee prior to adoption
3589of a final rule. The written reports of the local rule review
3590committees and the written responses of the commission staff
3591shall be part of the rulemaking record and may be submitted as
3592evidence regarding the committee's recommendations in any
3593proceeding relating to a rule proposed or adopted pursuant to
3594this subsection.
3595     13.  The commission is relieved of any obligations
3596regarding the local rule review committee process created in
3597this paragraph if a timely noticed county commission fails to
3598timely designate the required rule review committee.
3599     (g)  In order to protect manatees or sea cows from harmful
3600collisions with motorboats or from harassment, the Fish and
3601Wildlife Conservation Commission is authorized, in addition to
3602all other authority, to provide a permitting agency with
3603comments regarding the expansion of existing, or the
3604construction of new, marine facilities and mooring or docking
3605slips, by the addition or construction of five or more powerboat
3606slips. The commission shall adopt rules under chapter 120
3607regulating the operation and speed of motorboat traffic only
3608where manatee sightings are frequent and the best available
3609scientific information, as well as other available, relevant,
3610and reliable information, which may include but is not limited
3611to, manatee surveys, observations, available studies of food
3612sources, and water depths, supports the conclusions that
3613manatees inhabit these areas on a regular basis:
3614     1.  In Lee County: the entire Orange River, including the
3615Tice Florida Power and Light Corporation discharge canal and
3616adjoining waters of the Caloosahatchee River within 1 mile of
3617the confluence of the Orange and Caloosahatchee Rivers.
3618     2.  In Brevard County: those portions of the Indian River
3619within three-fourths of a mile of the Orlando Utilities
3620Commission Delespine power plant effluent and the Florida Power
3621and Light Frontenac power plant effluents.
3622     3.  In Indian River County: the discharge canals of the
3623Vero Beach Municipal Power Plant and connecting waters within
362411/4 miles thereof.
3625     4.  In St. Lucie County: the discharge of the Henry D. King
3626Municipal Electric Station and connecting waters within 1 mile
3627thereof.
3628     5.  In Palm Beach County: the discharges of the Florida
3629Power and Light Riviera Beach power plant and connecting waters
3630within 11/2 miles thereof.
3631     6.  In Broward County: the discharge canal of the Florida
3632Power and Light Port Everglades power plant and connecting
3633waters within 11/2 miles thereof and the discharge canal of the
3634Florida Power and Light Fort Lauderdale power plant and
3635connecting waters within 2 miles thereof. For purposes of
3636ensuring the physical safety of boaters in a sometimes turbulent
3637area, the area from the easternmost edge of the authorized
3638navigation project of the intracoastal waterway east through the
3639Port Everglades Inlet is excluded from this regulatory zone.
3640     7.  In Citrus County: headwaters of the Crystal River,
3641commonly referred to as King's Bay, and the Homosassa River.
3642     8.  In Volusia County: Blue Springs Run and connecting
3643waters of the St. Johns River within 1 mile of the confluence of
3644Blue Springs and the St. Johns River; and Thompson Creek,
3645Strickland Creek, Dodson Creek, and the Tomoka River.
3646     9.  In Hillsborough County: that portion of the Alafia
3647River from the main shipping channel in Tampa Bay to U.S.
3648Highway 41.
3649     10.  In Sarasota County: the Venice Inlet and connecting
3650waters within 1 mile thereof, including Lyons Bay, Donna Bay,
3651Roberts Bay, and Hatchett Creek, excluding the waters of the
3652intracoastal waterway and the right-of-way bordering the
3653centerline of the intracoastal waterway.
3654     11.  In Collier County: within the Port of Islands, within
3655section 9, township 52 south, range 28 east, and certain
3656unsurveyed lands, all east-west canals and the north-south
3657canals to the southerly extent of the intersecting east-west
3658canals which lie southerly of the centerline of U.S. Highway 41.
3659     12.  In Manatee County: that portion of the Manatee River
3660east of the west line of section 17, range 19 east, township 34
3661south; the Braden River south of the north line and east of the
3662west line of section 29, range 18 east, township 34 south; Terra
3663Ceia Bay and River, east of the west line of sections 26 and 35
3664of range 17 east, township 33 south, and east of the west line
3665of section 2, range 17 east, township 34 south; and Bishop
3666Harbor east of the west line of section 13, range 17 east,
3667township 33 south.
3668     13.  In Miami-Dade County: those portions of Black Creek
3669lying south and east of the water control dam, including all
3670boat basins and connecting canals within 1 mile of the dam.
3671     (h)  The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission shall
3672adopt rules pursuant to chapter 120 regulating the operation and
3673speed of motorboat traffic only where manatee sightings are
3674frequent and the best available scientific information, as well
3675as other available, relevant, and reliable information, which
3676may include but is not limited to, manatee surveys,
3677observations, available studies of food sources, and water
3678depths, supports the conclusion that manatees inhabit these
3679areas on a regular basis within that portion of the Indian River
3680between the St. Lucie Inlet in Martin County and the Jupiter
3681Inlet in Palm Beach County and within the Loxahatchee River in
3682Palm Beach and Martin Counties, including the north and
3683southwest forks thereof.
3684     (i)  The commission shall adopt rules pursuant to chapter
3685120 regulating the operation and speed of motorboat traffic only
3686where manatee sightings are frequent and the best available
3687scientific information, as well as other available, relevant,
3688and reliable information, which may include but is not limited
3689to, manatee surveys, observations, available studies of food
3690sources, and water depths, supports the conclusion that manatees
3691inhabit these areas on a regular basis within the Withlacoochee
3692River and its tributaries in Citrus and Levy Counties. The
3693specific areas to be regulated include the Withlacoochee River
3694and the U.S. 19 bridge westward to a line between U.S. Coast
3695Guard markers number 33 and number 34 at the mouth of the river,
3696including all side channels and coves along that portion of the
3697river; Bennets' Creek from its beginning to its confluence with
3698the Withlacoochee River; Bird's Creek from its beginning to its
3699confluence with the Withlacoochee River; and the two dredged
3700canal systems on the north side of the Withlacoochee River
3701southwest of Yankeetown.
3702     (j)  If any new power plant is constructed or other source
3703of warm water discharge is discovered within the state which
3704attracts a concentration of manatees or sea cows, the commission
3705is directed to adopt rules pursuant to chapter 120 regulating
3706the operation and speed of motorboat traffic within the area of
3707such discharge. Such rules shall designate a zone which is
3708sufficient in size, and which shall remain in effect for a
3709sufficient period of time, to protect the manatees or sea cows.
3710     (k)  It is the intent of the Legislature to allow the Fish
3711and Wildlife Conservation Commission to post and regulate boat
3712speeds only where the best available scientific information, as
3713well as other available, relevant, and reliable information,
3714which may include but is not limited to, manatee surveys,
3715observations, available studies of food sources, and water
3716depth, supports the conclusion that manatees inhabit these areas
3717on a periodic basis. It is not the intent of the Legislature to
3718permit the commission to post and regulate boat speeds generally
3719throughout the waters of the state, thereby unduly interfering
3720with the rights of fishers, boaters, and water skiers using the
3721areas for recreational and commercial purposes. The Legislature
3722further intends that the commission may identify and designate
3723limited lanes or corridors providing for reasonable motorboat
3724speeds within waters of the state whenever such lanes and
3725corridors are consistent with manatee protection.
3726     (l)  The commission shall adopt rules pursuant to chapter
3727120 regulating the operation and speed of motorboat traffic all
3728year around within Turkey Creek and its tributaries and within
3729Manatee Cove in Brevard County. The specific areas to be
3730regulated consist of:
3731     1.  A body of water which starts at Melbourne-Tillman
3732Drainage District structure MS-1, section 35, township 28 south,
3733range 37 east, running east to include all natural waters and
3734tributaries of Turkey Creek, section 26, township 28 south,
3735range 37 east, to the confluence of Turkey Creek and the Indian
3736River, section 24, township 28 south, range 37 east, including
3737all lagoon waters of the Indian River bordered on the west by
3738Palm Bay Point, the north by Castaway Point, the east by the
3739four immediate spoil islands, and the south by Cape Malabar,
3740thence northward along the shoreline of the Indian River to Palm
3741Bay Point.
3742     2.  A triangle-shaped body of water forming a cove
3743(commonly referred to as Manatee Cove) on the east side of the
3744Banana River, with northern boundaries beginning and running
3745parallel to the east-west cement bulkhead located 870 feet south
3746of SR 520 Relief Bridge in Cocoa Beach and with western
3747boundaries running in line with the City of Cocoa Beach channel
3748markers 121 and 127 and all waters east of these boundaries in
3749section 34, township 24 south, range 37 east; the center
3750coordinates of this cove are 28°20'14" north, 80°35'17" west.
3751     (m)  The commission shall promulgate regulations pursuant
3752to chapter 120 relating to the operation and speed of motor boat
3753traffic in port waters with due regard to the safety
3754requirements of such traffic and the navigational hazards
3755related to the movement of commercial vessels.
3756     (n)  The commission may designate by rule adopted pursuant
3757to chapter 120 other portions of state waters where manatees are
3758frequently sighted and the best available scientific
3759information, as well as other available, relevant, and reliable
3760information, which may include but is not limited to, manatee
3761surveys, observations, available studies of food sources, and
3762water depths, supports the conclusion that manatees inhabit such
3763waters periodically. Upon designation of such waters, the
3764commission shall adopt rules pursuant to chapter 120 to regulate
3765motorboat speed and operation which are necessary to protect
3766manatees from harmful collisions with motorboats and from
3767harassment. The commission may adopt rules pursuant to chapter
3768120 to protect manatee habitat, such as seagrass beds, within
3769such waters from destruction by boats or other human activity.
3770Such rules shall not protect noxious aquatic plants subject to
3771control under s. 369.20.
3772     (o)  The commission may designate, by rule adopted pursuant
3773to chapter 120, limited areas as a safe haven for manatees to
3774rest, feed, reproduce, give birth, or nurse undisturbed by human
3775activity. Access by motor boat to private residences, boat
3776houses, and boat docks through these areas by residents, and
3777their authorized guests, who must cross one of these areas to
3778have water access to their property is permitted when the
3779motorboat is operated at idle speed, no wake.
3780     (p)  Except in the marked navigation channel of the Florida
3781Intracoastal Waterway as defined in s. 327.02 and the area
3782within 100 feet of such channel, a local government may
3783regulate, by ordinance, motorboat speed and operation on waters
3784within its jurisdiction where the best available scientific
3785information, as well as other available, relevant, and reliable
3786information, which may include but is not limited to, manatee
3787surveys, observations, available studies of food sources, and
3788water depths, supports the conclusion that manatees inhabit
3789these areas on a regular basis. However, such an ordinance may
3790not take effect until it has been reviewed and approved by the
3791commission. If the commission and a local government disagree on
3792the provisions of an ordinance, a local manatee protection
3793committee must be formed to review the technical data of the
3794commission and the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, and
3795to resolve conflicts regarding the ordinance. The manatee
3796protection committee must be comprised of:
3797     1.  A representative of the commission;
3798     2.  A representative of the county;
3799     3.  A representative of the United States Fish and Wildlife
3800Service;
3801     4.  A representative of a local marine-related business;
3802     5.  A representative of the Save the Manatee Club;
3803     6.  A local fisher;
3804     7.  An affected property owner; and
3805     8.  A representative of the Florida Marine Patrol.
3806
3807If local and state regulations are established for the same
3808area, the more restrictive regulation shall prevail.
3809     (q)  The commission shall evaluate the need for use of
3810fenders to prevent crushing of manatees between vessels (100' or
3811larger) and bulkheads or wharves in counties where manatees have
3812been crushed by such vessels. For areas in counties where
3813evidence indicates that manatees have been crushed between
3814vessels and bulkheads or wharves, the commission shall:
3815     1.  Adopt rules pursuant to chapter 120 requiring use of
3816fenders for construction of future bulkheads or wharves; and
3817     2.  Implement a plan and time schedule to require
3818retrofitting of existing bulkheads or wharves consistent with
3819port bulkhead or wharf repair or replacement schedules.
3820
3821The fenders shall provide sufficient standoff from the bulkhead
3822or wharf under maximum operational compression to ensure that
3823manatees cannot be crushed between the vessel and the bulkhead
3824or wharf.
3825     (r)  Any violation of a restricted area established by this
3826subsection, or established by rule pursuant to chapter 120 or
3827ordinance pursuant to this subsection, shall be considered a
3828violation of the boating laws of this state and shall be charged
3829on a uniform boating citation as provided in s. 327.74, except
3830as otherwise provided in paragraph (s). Any person who refuses
3831to post a bond or accept and sign a uniform boating citation
3832shall, as provided in s. 327.73(3), be guilty of a misdemeanor
3833of the second degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s.
3834775.083.
3835     (s)  Except as otherwise provided in this paragraph, any
3836person violating the provisions of this subsection or any rule
3837or ordinance adopted pursuant to this subsection commits a
3838misdemeanor, punishable as provided in s. 379.407(1)(a) or (b)
3839370.021(1)(a) or (b).
3840     1.  Any person operating a vessel in excess of a posted
3841speed limit shall be guilty of a civil infraction, punishable as
3842provided in s. 327.73, except as provided in subparagraph 2.
3843     2.  This paragraph does not apply to persons violating
3844restrictions governing "No Entry" zones or "Motorboat
3845Prohibited" zones, who, if convicted, shall be guilty of a
3846misdemeanor, punishable as provided in s. 379.407(1)(a) or (b)
3847370.021(1)(a) or (b), or, if such violation demonstrates blatant
3848or willful action, may be found guilty of harassment as
3849described in paragraph (d).
3850     3.  A person may engage in any activity otherwise
3851prohibited by this subsection or any rule or ordinance adopted
3852pursuant to this subsection if the activity is reasonably
3853necessary in order to prevent the loss of human life or a vessel
3854in distress due to weather conditions or other reasonably
3855unforeseen circumstances, or in order to render emergency
3856assistance to persons or a vessel in distress.
3857     (t)1.  In order to protect manatees and manatee habitat,
3858the counties identified in the Governor and Cabinet's October
38591989 Policy Directive shall develop manatee protection plans
3860consistent with commission criteria based upon "Schedule K" of
3861the directive, and shall submit such protection plans for review
3862and approval by the commission. Any manatee protection plans not
3863submitted by July 1, 2004, and any plans not subsequently
3864approved by the commission shall be addressed pursuant to
3865subparagraph 2.
3866     2.  No later than January 1, 2005, the Fish and Wildlife
3867Conservation Commission shall designate any county it has
3868identified as a substantial risk county for manatee mortality as
3869a county that must complete a manatee protection plan by July 1,
38702006. The commission is authorized to adopt rules pursuant to s.
3871120.54 for identifying substantial risk counties and
3872establishing criteria for approval of manatee protection plans
3873for counties so identified. Manatee protection plans shall
3874include the following elements at a minimum: education about
3875manatees and manatee habitat; boater education; an assessment of
3876the need for new or revised manatee protection speed zones;
3877local law enforcement; and a boat facility siting plan to
3878address expansion of existing and the development of new
3879marinas, boat ramps, and other multislip boating facilities.
3880     3.  Counties required to adopt manatee protection plans
3881under this paragraph shall incorporate the boating facility
3882siting element of those protection plans within their respective
3883comprehensive plans.
3884     4.  Counties that have already adopted approved manatee
3885protection plans, or that adopt subsequently approved manatee
3886protection plans by the effective date of this act, are in
3887compliance with the provisions of this paragraph so long as they
3888incorporate their approved boat facility siting plan into the
3889appropriate element of their local comprehensive plan no later
3890than July 1, 2003.
3891     (u)1.  Existing state manatee protection rules shall be
3892given great weight in determining whether additional rules are
3893necessary in a region where the measurable goals developed
3894pursuant to s. 379.2291 372.072 have been achieved. However, the
3895commission may amend existing rules or adopt new rules to
3896address risks or circumstances in a particular area or waterbody
3897to protect manatees.
3898     2.  As used in this paragraph, the term "region" means one
3899of the four geographic areas defined by the United States Fish
3900and Wildlife Service in the Florida Manatee Recovery Plan, 3rd
3901revision (October 30, 2001).
3902     (3)  PROTECTION OF MAMMALIAN DOLPHINS (PORPOISES).--It is
3903unlawful to catch, attempt to catch, molest, injure, kill, or
3904annoy, or otherwise interfere with the normal activity and well-
3905being of, mammalian dolphins (porpoises), except as may be
3906authorized by a federal permit.
3907     (4)  ANNUAL FUNDING OF PROGRAMS FOR MARINE ANIMALS.--
3908     (a)  Each fiscal year the Save the Manatee Trust Fund shall
3909be available to fund an impartial scientific benchmark census of
3910the manatee population in the state. Weather permitting, the
3911study shall be conducted annually by the Fish and Wildlife
3912Conservation Commission and the results shall be made available
3913to the President of the Senate, the Speaker of the House of
3914Representatives, and the Governor and Cabinet for use in the
3915evaluation and development of manatee protection measures. In
3916addition, the Save the Manatee Trust Fund shall be available for
3917annual funding of activities of public and private organizations
3918and those of the commission intended to provide manatee and
3919marine mammal protection and recovery effort; manufacture and
3920erection of informational and regulatory signs; production,
3921publication, and distribution of educational materials;
3922participation in manatee and marine mammal research programs,
3923including carcass salvage and other programs; programs intended
3924to assist the recovery of the manatee as an endangered species,
3925assist the recovery of the endangered or threatened marine
3926mammals, and prevent the endangerment of other species of marine
3927mammals; and other similar programs intended to protect and
3928enhance the recovery of the manatee and other species of marine
3929mammals.
3930     (b)  By December 1 each year, the Fish and Wildlife
3931Conservation Commission shall provide the President of the
3932Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives a written
3933report, enumerating the amounts and purposes for which all
3934proceeds in the Save the Manatee Trust Fund for the previous
3935fiscal year are expended, in a manner consistent with those
3936recovery tasks enumerated within the manatee recovery plan as
3937required by the Endangered Species Act.
3938     (c)  When the federal and state governments remove the
3939manatee from status as an endangered or threatened species, the
3940annual allocation may be reduced.
3941     (d)  Up to 10 percent of the annual use fee deposited in
3942the Save the Manatee Trust Fund from the sale of the manatee
3943license plate authorized in s. 320.08058 may be used to promote
3944and market the license plate issued by the Department of Highway
3945Safety and Motor Vehicles after June 30, 2007.
3946     (e)  During the 2007-2008 fiscal year, the annual use fee
3947deposited into the Save the Manatee Trust Fund from the sale of
3948the manatee license plate authorized in s. 320.08058 may be used
3949by the commission to buy back any manatee license plates not
3950issued by the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles.
3951This paragraph expires July 1, 2008.
3952     Section 74.  Section 370.1201, Florida Statutes, is
3953renumbered as section, 379.2432, Florida Statutes, to read:
3954     379.2432 370.1201  Manatee protection; intent; conduct of
3955studies; initiatives and plans.--It is the intent of the
3956Legislature that the commission request the necessary funding
3957and staffing through a general revenue budget request to ensure
3958that manatees receive the maximum protection possible. The
3959Legislature recognizes that strong manatee protection depends
3960upon consistently achieving a high degree of compliance with
3961existing and future rules. The commission shall conduct
3962standardized studies to determine levels of public compliance
3963with manatee protection rules, and shall use the results of the
3964studies, together with other relevant information, to develop
3965and implement strategic law enforcement initiatives and boater
3966education plans. Drawing upon information obtained from the
3967compliance studies and the implementation of enforcement
3968initiatives together with boater education plans, the commission
3969shall identify any impediments in consistently achieving high
3970levels of compliance, and adjust their enforcement and boater
3971education efforts accordingly.
3972     Section 75.  Section 370.1202, Florida Statutes, is
3973renumbered as section 379.2433, Florida Statutes, to read:
3974     379.2433 370.1202  Enhanced manatee protection study.--
3975     (1)  The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission shall
3976implement and administer an enhanced manatee protection study
3977designed to increase knowledge of the factors that determine the
3978size and distribution of the manatee population in the waters of
3979the state. The enhanced study shall be used by the commission in
3980its mission to provide manatees with the maximum protection
3981possible, while also allowing maximum recreational use of the
3982state's waterways. The goal of the enhanced study is to collect
3983data that will enable resource managers and state and local
3984policymakers, in consultation with the public, to develop and
3985implement sound science-based policies to improve manatee
3986habitat, establish manatee protection zones, and maximize the
3987size of safe boating areas for recreational use of state waters
3988without endangering the manatee population.
3989     (2)(a)  As part of the enhanced manatee protection study,
3990the Legislature intends that the commission shall contract with
3991Mote Marine Laboratory to conduct a manatee habitat and
3992submerged aquatic vegetation assessment that specifically
3993considers:
3994     1.  Manatee populations that congregate in the warm water
3995discharge sites at power plants in the state and the potential
3996risks for disease resulting from increased congregation of
3997manatees at these sites;
3998     2.  Development of research, monitoring, and submerged
3999aquatic vegetation restoration priorities for manatee habitat in
4000and near the warm water discharge sites at power plants in the
4001state; and
4002     3.  The potential impacts on manatees and manatee habitat
4003if power plants that provide warm water discharge sites where
4004manatees congregate are closed, including how closure will
4005affect the size and health of submerged aquatic vegetation
4006areas.
4007     (b)  The Mote Marine Laboratory must submit an interim
4008report on the manatee habitat and submerged aquatic vegetation
4009assessment to the Governor, the Legislature, and the commission
4010by September 1, 2006. The interim report must detail the
4011progress of the assessment. The final report, due to the
4012Governor, the Legislature, and the commission by January 1,
40132007, must detail the results of the assessment and include
4014recommendations for protection of manatee habitat in warm water
4015discharge sites at power plants in the state.
4016     (c)  The commission shall ensure that funds allocated to
4017implement the manatee habitat and submerged aquatic vegetation
4018assessment are expended in a manner that is consistent with the
4019requirements of this subsection. The commission may require an
4020annual audit of the expenditures made by Mote Marine Laboratory.
4021Copies of any audit requested under this subsection must be
4022provided to the appropriate substantive and appropriations
4023committees of the Senate and the House of Representatives as
4024they become available.
4025     (3)  As part of the enhanced manatee protection study, the
4026Legislature intends that the commission must conduct a signage
4027and boat speed assessment to evaluate the effectiveness of
4028manatee protection signs and sign placement and to assess boat
4029speeds. The commission shall evaluate existing data on manatee
4030mortality before and after existing manatee protection zones
4031were established, boater compliance and comprehension of
4032regulatory signs and buoys, changes in boating traffic patterns,
4033and manatee distribution and behavior. The commission shall also
4034provide recommendations on innovative marker designs that are in
4035compliance with the federal aids to navigation system. The
4036signage and boat speed assessment must address:
4037     (a)  The effectiveness of signs and buoys to warn boaters
4038of manatee slow-speed zones, with a goal of developing federally
4039approved standards for marking manatee protection zones;
4040     (b)  A determination of where buoys may be used in place of
4041pilings for boating safety purposes; and
4042     (c)  An evaluation of higher speed travel corridors in
4043manatee zones to determine the most effective speed to balance
4044safe boating, recreational use, vessel operating
4045characteristics, and manatee protection.
4046
4047The commission shall complete its signage and boat speed
4048assessment by January 1, 2007, and must submit a report of its
4049findings to the Governor, the President of the Senate, and the
4050Speaker of the House of Representatives by February 1, 2007. The
4051report must detail the results of the assessment and identify
4052specific recommendations for developing state and local policies
4053relating to the appropriate placement of signs, including
4054innovative markers, in manatee slow-speed zones.
4055     (4)  The commission is authorized to develop and implement
4056the use of genetic tagging to improve its ability to assess the
4057status and health of the manatee population, including the
4058health and reproductive capacity of manatees, estimating annual
4059survival rates through mark recapture studies, determining
4060migration patterns, and determining maternity and paternity. The
4061development and use of genetic tagging may be done in
4062cooperation with federal agencies or other entities, such as
4063genetic laboratories at schools within the State University
4064System.
4065     Section 76.  Section 370.10, Florida Statutes, is
4066renumbered as section 379.244, Florida Statutes, to read:
4067     379.244 370.10  Crustacea, marine animals, fish;
4068regulations; general provisions.--
4069     (1)  OWNERSHIP OF FISH, SPONGES, ETC.--All fish, shellfish,
4070sponges, oysters, clams, and crustacea found within the rivers,
4071creeks, canals, lakes, bayous, lagoons, bays, sounds, inlets,
4072and other bodies of water within the jurisdiction of the state,
4073and within the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean within the
4074jurisdiction of the state, excluding all privately owned
4075enclosed fish ponds not exceeding 150 acres, are the property of
4076the state and may be taken and used by its citizens and persons
4077not citizens, subject to the reservations and restrictions
4078imposed by these statutes. No water bottoms owned by the state
4079shall ever be sold, transferred, dedicated, or otherwise
4080conveyed without reserving in the people the absolute right to
4081fish thereon, except as otherwise provided in these statutes.
4082     (2)  TAKING SALTWATER SPECIES FOR EXPERIMENTAL,
4083AQUACULTURAL, SCIENTIFIC, EDUCATION, AND EXHIBITION
4084PURPOSES.--Notwithstanding any other provisions of general or
4085special law to the contrary, the Fish and Wildlife Conservation
4086Commission may authorize, upon such terms, conditions, and
4087restrictions as it may prescribe by rule, any properly
4088accredited person to harvest or possess indigenous or
4089nonindigenous saltwater species for experimental, scientific,
4090education, and exhibition purposes or to harvest or possess
4091reasonable quantities of aquacultural species for brood stock.
4092Such authorizations may allow collection of specimens without
4093regard to, and not limited to, size, seasonal closure,
4094collection method, reproductive state, or bag limit.
4095Authorizations issued under the provisions of this section may
4096be suspended or revoked by the Fish and Wildlife Conservation
4097Commission if it finds that the person has violated this
4098section, Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission rules or
4099orders, or terms or conditions of the authorization or has
4100submitted false or inaccurate information in his or her
4101application.
4102     Section 77.  Section 370.1405, Florida Statutes, is
4103renumbered as section 379.245, Florida Statutes, and amended to
4104read:
4105     379.245 370.1405  Spiny lobster reports by dealers during
4106closed season required.--
4107     (1)  Within 3 days after the commencement of the closed
4108season for the taking of spiny lobster, each and every seafood
4109dealer, either retail or wholesale, intending to possess whole
4110spiny lobster, spiny lobster tails, or spiny lobster meat during
4111closed season shall submit to the Fish and Wildlife Conservation
4112Commission, on forms provided by the commission, a sworn report
4113of the quantity, in pounds, of whole spiny lobster, spiny
4114lobster tails, and spiny lobster meat in the dealer's name or
4115possession as of the date the season closed. This report shall
4116state the location and number of pounds of whole spiny lobster,
4117spiny lobster tails, and spiny lobster meat. The commission
4118shall not accept any reports not delivered or postmarked by
4119midnight of the 3rd calendar day after the commencement of the
4120closed season, and any stocks of spiny lobster reported therein
4121are declared a nuisance and may be seized by the commission.
4122     (2)  Failure to submit a report as described in subsection
4123(1) or reporting a greater or lesser amount of whole spiny
4124lobster, spiny lobster tails, or spiny lobster meat than is
4125actually in the dealer's possession or name is a major violation
4126of this chapter, punishable as provided in s. 379.407(1),
4127379.414 370.021(1), s. 370.07(6)(b), or both. The commission
4128shall seize the entire supply of unreported or falsely reported
4129whole spiny lobster, spiny lobster tails, or spiny lobster meat,
4130and shall carry the same before the court for disposal. The
4131dealer shall post a cash bond in the amount of the fair value of
4132the entire quantity of unreported or falsely reported spiny
4133lobster as determined by the judge. After posting the cash bond,
4134the dealer shall have 24 hours to transport said products
4135outside the limits of Florida for sale as provided by s. 379.337
4136370.061. Otherwise, the product shall be declared a nuisance and
4137disposed of by the commission according to law.
4138     (3)  All dealers having reported stocks of spiny lobster
4139may sell or offer to sell such stocks of spiny lobster; however,
4140such dealers shall submit an additional report on the last day
4141of each month during the duration of the closed season. Reports
4142shall be made on forms supplied by the commission. Each dealer
4143shall state on this report the number of pounds brought forward
4144from the previous report period, the number of pounds sold
4145during the report period, the number of pounds, if any, acquired
4146from a licensed wholesale dealer during the report period, and
4147the number of pounds remaining on hand. In every case, the
4148amount of spiny lobster sold plus the amount reported on hand
4149shall equal the amount acquired plus the amount reported
4150remaining on hand in the last submitted report. Copies of
4151records or invoices documenting the number of pounds acquired
4152during the closed season must be maintained by the wholesale or
4153retail dealer and shall be kept available for inspection by the
4154commission for a period not less than 3 years from the date of
4155the recorded transaction. Reports postmarked later than midnight
4156on the 3rd calendar day of each month during the duration of the
4157closed season will not be accepted by the commission. Dealers
4158for which late supplementary reports are not accepted by the
4159commission must show just cause why their entire stock of whole
4160spiny lobster, spiny lobster tails, or spiny lobster meat should
4161not be seized by the commission. Whenever a dealer fails to
4162timely submit the monthly supplementary report as described in
4163this subsection, the dealer may be subject to the following
4164civil penalties:
4165     (a)  For a first violation, the commission shall assess a
4166civil penalty of $500.
4167     (b)  For a second violation within the same spiny lobster
4168closed season, the commission shall assess a civil penalty of
4169$1,000.
4170     (c)  For a third violation within the same spiny lobster
4171closed season, the commission shall assess a civil penalty of
4172$2,500 and may seize said dealer's entire stock of whole spiny
4173lobster, spiny lobster tails, or spiny lobster meat and carry
4174the same before the court for disposal. The dealer shall post a
4175cash bond in the amount of the fair value of the entire
4176remaining quantity of spiny lobster as determined by the judge.
4177After posting the cash bond, a dealer shall have 24 hours to
4178transport said products outside the limits of Florida for sale
4179as provided by s. 379.337 370.061. Otherwise, the product shall
4180be declared a nuisance and disposed of by the commission
4181according to law.
4182     (4)  All seafood dealers shall at all times during the
4183closed season make their stocks of whole spiny lobster, spiny
4184lobster tails, or spiny lobster meat available for inspection by
4185the commission.
4186     (5)  Each wholesale and retail dealer in whole spiny
4187lobster, spiny lobster tails, or spiny lobster meat shall keep
4188throughout the period of the spiny lobster closed season copies
4189of the bill of sale or invoice covering each transaction
4190involving whole spiny lobster, spiny lobster tails, or spiny
4191lobster meat. Such invoices and bills shall be kept available at
4192all times for inspection by the commission.
4193     (6)  The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission may
4194adopt rules incorporating by reference such forms as are
4195necessary to administer this section.
4196     Section 78.  Section 370.151, Florida Statutes, is
4197renumbered as section 379.246, Florida Statutes, and amended to
4198read:
4199     379.246 370.151  Tortugas shrimp beds; gifted and loan
4200property penalties.--
4201     (1)  It is the intention of the Legislature that action
4202should be taken to conserve the supply of shrimp in the large
4203shrimp beds which lie in and around the coast of the Lower Keys
4204of Florida and in the vicinity of the islands of Dry Tortugas in
4205the Florida Keys, hereinafter referred to as the "Tortugas
4206Shrimp Bed," and which furnish more than 50 percent of the
4207shrimp in waters adjacent to the coast of Florida. It is further
4208the sense of this Legislature that the shrimp industry is a
4209valuable industry to the economy of this state and deserves
4210adequate protection.
4211     (1)(2)(a)  The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is
4212authorized to take title in the name of the state to any vessel
4213or vessels suitable for use in carrying out the inspection and
4214patrol of the Tortugas Bed which may be offered as a gift to the
4215state by any person, firm, corporation, or association in the
4216shrimp industry for the purpose of carrying out the provisions
4217of this section. In the event such title is taken to such vessel
4218or vessels, the commission is authorized to operate and keep
4219said vessel or vessels in proper repair.
4220     (2)(b)  The commission is further authorized to accept the
4221temporary loan of any vessel or vessels, suitable for use in
4222carrying out the provisions of this section, for periods not
4223exceeding 1 year. However, the state shall not assume any
4224liability to the owner or owners of said vessels for any damage
4225done by said vessels to other vessels, persons, or property. In
4226the operation of said loaned vessels, upkeep and repair shall
4227consist only of minor repairs and routine maintenance. The owner
4228or owners shall carry full marine insurance coverage on said
4229loaned vessel or vessels for the duration of the period during
4230which said vessels are operated by the state.
4231     (3)  The owner or master of any vessel not equipped with
4232live shrimp bait tanks dragging shrimp nets in the above-defined
4233area without a live bait shrimping license for this area is
4234guilty of a violation of this section. A third or any subsequent
4235violation by any person under this subsection within a 3-year
4236period shall be a felony of the third degree, punishable as
4237provided in ss. 775.082 and 775.083.
4238     Section 79.  Section 370.153, Florida Statutes, is
4239renumbered as section 379.247, Florida Statutes, and amended to
4240read:
4241     379.247 370.153  Regulation of shrimp fishing; Clay, Duval,
4242Nassau, Putnam, Flagler, and St. Johns Counties.--
4243     (1)  DEFINITIONS.--When used in this section, unless the
4244context clearly requires otherwise:
4245     (a)  "Inland waters" means all creeks, rivers, bayous,
4246bays, inlets, and canals.
4247     (b)  "Sample" means one or more shrimp taken from an
4248accurately defined part of the area defined.
4249     (c)  "Series" means 10 or more samples taken within a
4250period of not more than 1 week, each sample being taken at a
4251different station within the pattern.
4252     (d)  "Pattern" means 10 or more stations.
4253     (e)  "Station" means a single location on the water of the
4254areas defined.
4255     (f)  "Licensed live bait shrimp producer" means any
4256individual licensed by the Fish and Wildlife Conservation
4257Commission to employ the use of any trawl for the taking of live
4258bait shrimp within the inland waters of Nassau, Duval, St.
4259Johns, Putnam, Flagler, or Clay Counties.
4260     (g)  "Licensed dead shrimp producer" means any individual
4261licensed by the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission to
4262employ the use of any trawl for the taking of shrimp within the
4263inland waters of Nassau, Duval, St. Johns, Putnam, Flagler, or
4264Clay Counties.
4265     (2)  SHRIMPING PROHIBITED.--It is unlawful to employ the
4266use of any trawl or other net, except a common cast net,
4267designed for or capable of taking shrimp, within the inland
4268waters of Nassau, Duval, St. Johns, Putnam, Flagler, or Clay
4269Counties, except as hereinafter provided.
4270     (3)  LIVE BAIT SHRIMP PRODUCTION.--
4271     (a)  A live bait shrimp production license shall be issued
4272by the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission upon the
4273receipt of an application by a person intending to use a boat,
4274not to exceed 35 feet in length in Duval, St. Johns, Putnam,
4275Flagler, and Clay Counties and not to exceed 45 feet in length
4276in Nassau County, for live shrimp production within the inland
4277waters of Nassau, Duval, St. Johns, Putnam, Flagler, or Clay
4278Counties and the payment of a fee of $250. The annual fee of
4279$250 shall be collected by the commission for the issuance of
4280the license during a 60-day period beginning June 1 of each
4281year. The design of the application and permit shall be
4282determined by the commission. The proceeds of the fee imposed by
4283this paragraph shall be used by the Fish and Wildlife
4284Conservation Commission for the purposes of enforcement of
4285marine resource laws.
4286     (b)  The Executive Director of the Fish and Wildlife
4287Conservation Commission, or his or her designated
4288representative, may by order close certain areas to live bait
4289shrimp production when sampling procedures justify the closing
4290based upon sound conservation practices. The revocation of any
4291order to close has the effect of opening the area.
4292     (c)1.  Each licensed live bait shrimp producer who stores
4293his or her catch for sale or sells his or her catch shall
4294either:
4295     a.  Maintain onshore facilities which have been annually
4296checked and approved by the local commission office to assure
4297the facilities' ability to maintain the catch alive when the
4298live bait shrimp producer produces for his or her own facility;
4299or
4300     b.  Sell his or her catch only to persons who have onshore
4301facilities that have been annually checked and approved by the
4302local commission office to assure the facilities' ability to
4303maintain the catch alive, when the producer sells his or her
4304catch to an onshore facility. The producer shall provide the
4305commission with the wholesale number of the facility to which
4306the shrimp have been sold and shall submit this number on a form
4307designed and approved by the commission.
4308     2.  All persons who maintain onshore facilities as
4309described in this paragraph, whether the facilities are
4310maintained by the licensed live bait shrimp producer or by
4311another party who purchases shrimp from live bait shrimp
4312producers, shall keep records of their transactions in
4313conformance with the provisions of s. 379.362(6) 370.07(6).
4314     (d)  All commercial trawling in Clay, Duval, and St. Johns
4315Counties shall be restricted to the inland waters of the St.
4316Johns River proper in the area north of the Acosta Bridge in
4317Jacksonville and at least 100 yards from the nearest shoreline.
4318     (e)  A live shrimp producer must also be a licensed
4319wholesale dealer. Such person shall not sell live bait shrimp
4320unless he or she produces a live bait shrimp production license
4321at the time of sale.
4322     (f)  The commission shall rename the Live Bait Shrimp
4323Production License as the Commercial Live Shrimp Production
4324License.
4325     (4)  DEAD SHRIMP PRODUCTION.--Any person may operate as a
4326commercial dead shrimp producer provided that:
4327     (a)  A dead shrimp production permit is procured from the
4328Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission upon the receipt by
4329the commission of a properly filled out and approved application
4330by a person intending to use a boat, not to exceed 35 feet in
4331length in Duval, St. Johns, Putnam, and Clay Counties, and not
4332to exceed 45 feet in length in Nassau County, for dead shrimp
4333production within the inland waters of Nassau County and the
4334inland waters of the St. Johns River of Duval, Putnam, St.
4335Johns, Flagler, or Clay Counties, which permit shall cost $250
4336and shall be required for each vessel used for dead shrimp
4337production. The design of the application and permit shall be
4338determined by the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. The
4339proceeds of the fees imposed by this paragraph shall be
4340deposited into the account of the Marine Resources Conservation
4341Trust Fund to be used by the commission for the purpose of
4342enforcement of marine resource laws.
4343     (b)  All commercial trawling in the St. Johns River proper
4344shall be restricted to the area north of the Acosta Bridge in
4345Jacksonville and at least 100 yards from the nearest shoreline.
4346     (c)  All commercial shrimping activities shall be allowed
4347during daylight hours from Tuesday through Friday each week.
4348     (d)  No person holding a dead shrimp production permit
4349issued pursuant to this subsection shall simultaneously hold a
4350permit for noncommercial trawling under the provisions of
4351subsection (5). The number of permits issued by the commission
4352for commercial trawling or dead shrimp production in any one
4353year shall be limited to those active in the base year, 1976,
4354and renewed annually since 1976. All permits for dead shrimp
4355production issued pursuant to this section shall be inheritable
4356or transferable to an immediate family member and annually
4357renewable by the holder thereof. Such inheritance or transfer
4358shall be valid upon being registered with the commission. Each
4359permit not renewed shall expire and shall not be renewed under
4360any circumstances.
4361     (e)  It is illegal for any person to sell dead shrimp
4362caught in the inland waters of Nassau, Duval, Clay, Putnam, and
4363St. Johns Counties, unless the seller is in possession of a dead
4364shrimp production license issued pursuant to this subsection.
4365     (f)  It is illegal for any person to purchase shrimp for
4366consumption or bait from any seller (with respect to shrimp
4367caught in the inland waters of Nassau, Duval, Clay, Putnam, and
4368St. Johns Counties (St. Johns River)) who does not produce his
4369or her dead shrimp production license prior to the sale of the
4370shrimp.
4371     (g)  In addition to any other penalties provided for in
4372this section, any person who violates the provisions of this
4373subsection shall have his or her license revoked by the
4374commission.
4375     (h)  The commission shall rename the Dead Shrimp Production
4376License as the Commercial Food Shrimp Production License.
4377     (5)  NONCOMMERCIAL TRAWLING.--If noncommercial trawling is
4378authorized by the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, any
4379person may trawl for shrimp in the St. Johns River for his or
4380her own use as food under the following conditions:
4381     (a)  Each person who desires to trawl for shrimp for use as
4382food shall obtain a noncommercial trawling permit from the local
4383office of the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission upon
4384filling out an application on a form prescribed by the
4385commission and upon paying a fee for the permit, which shall
4386cost $50.
4387     (b)  All trawling shall be restricted to the confines of
4388the St. Johns River proper in the area north of the Acosta
4389Bridge in Jacksonville and at least 100 yards from the nearest
4390shoreline.
4391     (c)  No shrimp caught by a person licensed under the
4392provisions of this subsection may be sold or offered for sale.
4393     (6)  SAMPLING PROCEDURE.--
4394     (a)  The Executive Director of the Fish and Wildlife
4395Conservation Commission shall have samples taken at established
4396stations within patterns at frequent intervals.
4397     (b)  No area may be closed to live bait shrimp production
4398unless a series of samples has been taken and it has been
4399determined that the shrimp are undersized or that continued
4400shrimping in this area would have an adverse effect on
4401conservation. Standards for size may be established by rule of
4402the commission.
4403     (c)  No area may be opened to dead shrimp production unless
4404a series of samples has been taken and it has been determined
4405that the shrimp are of legal size. Legal-sized shrimp shall be
4406defined as not more than 47 shrimp with heads on, or 70 shrimp
4407with heads off, per pound.
4408     (7)  LICENSE POSSESSION.--The operator of a boat employing
4409the use of any trawl for shrimp production must be in possession
4410of a current shrimp production license issued to him or her
4411pursuant to the provisions of this section.
4412     (8)  USE OF TRAWL; LIMITATION.--
4413     (a)  The use of a trawl by either a live bait shrimp
4414producer or dead shrimp producer shall be limited to the
4415daylight hours, and the taking of dead shrimp shall not take
4416place on Saturdays, Sundays, or legal state holidays.
4417     (b)  The use of a trawl by either a live bait shrimp
4418producer or dead shrimp producer within 100 yards of any
4419shoreline is prohibited. The Fish and Wildlife Conservation
4420Commission, by rule or order, may define the area or areas where
4421this subsection shall apply.
4422     (c)1.  It is unlawful to employ the use of any trawl
4423designed for, or capable of, taking shrimp within 1/4 mile of
4424any natural or manmade inlet in Duval County or St. Johns
4425County.
4426     2.  It is unlawful for anyone to trawl in the Trout River
4427west of the bridge on U.S. 17 in Duval County.
4428     (9)  CREDITS.--Fees paid pursuant to paragraphs (3)(a) and
4429(4)(a) of this section shall be credited against the saltwater
4430products license fee.
4431     Section 80.  Section 370.17, Florida Statutes, is
4432renumbered as section 379.248, Florida Statutes, and amended to
4433read:
4434     379.248 370.17  Sponges; regulation.--
4435     (1)  NONRESIDENT LICENSE; SPONGE FISHING.--Any nonresident
4436of the state, who desires to engage in the business or
4437occupation of sponge fishing, either for that person or any
4438other person, shall, before entering into said business or
4439occupation, procure a nonresident saltwater products license
4440issued in the name of an individual or to a valid boat
4441registration pursuant to s. 379.361 370.06.
4442     (2)  USE AND SIZE OF HOOKS.--Any person engaged in
4443gathering sponges by use of a hook shall use a hook 5 inches
4444wide for the purpose of removing sponges from the bottom, and no
4445hook of other dimensions may be used.
4446     (3)  TAKING, POSSESSING COMMERCIAL; SIZE.--
4447     (a)  No person may take, by any means or method, from the
4448waters of the Gulf of Mexico, the straits of this state or the
4449other waters within the territorial limits of this state, any
4450commercial sponges, measuring, when wet, less than 5 inches in
4451their maximum diameter.
4452     (b)  To make effective the foregoing subsection it is
4453further provided that no person may land, cure, deliver, offer
4454for sale, sell, or have in his or her possession, within the
4455territorial limits of this state, or upon any boat, vessel, or
4456vehicle, other than those operated interstate by common
4457carriers, within the territorial limits of this state, any
4458commercial sponges measuring, when wet, less than 5 inches in
4459their maximum diameter.
4460     (c)  The presence of commercial sponges within the
4461territorial limits of this state, or upon any boat, vessel, or
4462vehicle, other than those operated interstate by common
4463carriers, within the territorial limits of this state,
4464measuring, when wet, less than 5 inches in their maximum
4465diameter, shall be evidence that the person having such sponges
4466in his or her possession has violated this section.
4467     (4)  POWERS OF THE COMMISSION.--The commission is
4468authorized and empowered to make, promulgate, and put into
4469effect all rules and regulations which the commission may
4470consider and decide to be necessary to accomplish the purpose of
4471this chapter for the taking and cultivation of sponges,
4472including the power and authority to determine and fix, in its
4473discretion, the seasons and period of time within which public
4474state grounds may be closed to the taking, possessing, buying,
4475selling, or transporting of sponges from the sponge cultivation
4476districts herein provided for and to regulate and prescribe the
4477means and methods to be employed in the harvesting thereof;
4478however, notice of all rules, regulations, and orders, and all
4479revisions and amendments thereto, prescribing closed seasons or
4480prescribing the means and methods of harvesting sponges adopted
4481by the commission shall be published in a newspaper of general
4482circulation in the conservation district affected within 10 days
4483from the adoption thereof, in addition to any notice required by
4484chapter 120.
4485     (5)  COOPERATION WITH UNITED STATES FISH AND WILDLIFE
4486SERVICE.--The commission shall cooperate with the United States
4487Fish and Wildlife Service, under existing federal laws, rules
4488and regulations, and is authorized to accept donations, grants
4489and matching funds from said federal government under such
4490conditions as are reasonable and proper, for the purposes of
4491carrying out this chapter, and the commission is further
4492authorized to accept any and all donations including funds and
4493loan of vessels.
4494     (6)  PENALTY.--Any person violating any of the foregoing
4495provisions shall, for the second offense, be guilty of a felony
4496of the third degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082, s.
4497775.083, or s. 775.084, and by the confiscation of all boats,
4498tackle and equipment used in the commission of such violation.
4499     Section 81.  Section 370.25, Florida Statutes, is
4500renumbered as section 379.249, Florida Statutes, to read:
4501     379.249 370.25  Artificial reef program; grants and
4502financial and technical assistance to local governments.--
4503     (1)  An artificial reef program is created within the
4504commission to enhance saltwater opportunities and to promote
4505proper management of fisheries resources associated with
4506artificial reefs for the public interest. Under the program, the
4507commission may provide grants and financial and technical
4508assistance to coastal local governments, state universities, and
4509nonprofit corporations qualified under s. 501(c)(3) of the
4510Internal Revenue Code for the siting and development of
4511artificial reefs as well as for monitoring and evaluating such
4512reefs and their recreational, economic, and biological
4513effectiveness. The commission is authorized to accept title, on
4514behalf of the state, to vessels for use in the artificial reef
4515program as offshore artificial reefs. The program may be funded
4516from state, federal, and private contributions.
4517     (2)  The commission may adopt by rule procedures for
4518submitting an application for financial assistance and criteria
4519for allocating available funds.
4520     (3)  The commission may adopt by rule criteria for siting,
4521constructing, managing, and evaluating the effectiveness of
4522artificial reefs placed in state or adjacent federal waters and
4523criteria implementing the transfer of vessel titles to the state
4524for use as an offshore artificial reef.
4525     (4)  The commission may adopt by rule criteria for
4526determining the eligibility of nonprofit corporations qualified
4527under s. 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code to apply for and
4528receive funds available for artificial reef development or
4529evaluation. The criteria must include, but are not limited to,
4530the following:
4531     (a)  The corporation must show proof that it is a nonprofit
4532corporation qualified under s. 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue
4533Code.
4534     (b)  The corporation must state in its articles of
4535incorporation or bylaws that one of its objectives is the
4536development or monitoring of artificial reefs.
4537     (5)  The commission's artificial reef program shall track
4538all artificial-reef-development activities statewide, and
4539maintain a computer database of these activities for the public
4540interest and to facilitate long-range planning and coordination
4541within the commission and among local governments.
4542     (6)  It is unlawful for any person to:
4543     (a)  Place artificial-reef-construction materials in state
4544waters outside zones permitted under the terms and conditions
4545defined in any artificial-reef permits issued by the United
4546States Army Corps of Engineers or by the Department of
4547Environmental Protection.
4548     (b)  Store, possess, or transport on or across state waters
4549any materials reasonably suited for artificial-reef construction
4550and stored in a manner providing ready access for use and
4551placement as an artificial reef, unless a valid cargo manifest
4552issued by the commission or a commission-certified inspector is
4553onboard the transporting vessel. The manifest will serve as
4554authorization to use a valid permitted site or land-based
4555staging area, will validate that the type of artificial-reef
4556construction material being transported is permissible for use
4557at the permitted site, and will describe and quantify the
4558artificial-reef material being transported. The manifest will
4559also include the latitude and longitude coordinates of the
4560proposed deployment location, the valid permit number, and a
4561copy of the permit conditions for the permitted site. The
4562manifest must be available for inspection by any authorized law
4563enforcement officer or commission employee.
4564     (7)(a)  An initial violation of subsection (6) is a
4565misdemeanor of the first degree, punishable as provided in s.
4566775.082 or s. 775.083. A subsequent violation of subsection (6)
4567which is committed within 12 months after a previous violation
4568of that subsection is a felony of the third degree, punishable
4569as provided in s. 775.082, s. 775.083, or s. 775.084.
4570     (b)  If a violation of subsection (6) occurs, a law
4571enforcement officer may terminate a vessel's voyage and order
4572the vessel operator to return immediately to port. Failure or
4573refusal to comply with an order to return to port constitutes a
4574felony of the third degree, punishable as provided in s.
4575775.082, s. 775.083, or s. 775.084. The vessel operator must
4576immediately dispose of the materials on shore according to
4577applicable waste disposal laws.
4578     (c)  If, at the time of the violation, the vessel that is
4579involved in the violation:
4580     1.  Is moored at a land-based facility, the registered
4581owner of the vessel is responsible for the violation.
4582     2.  Is underway or anchored, the captain or operator of the
4583vessel and the registered owner of the vessel are jointly
4584responsible for the violation.
4585     (d)  In addition to the penalties imposed in this
4586subsection, the commission shall assess civil penalties of up to
4587$5,000 against any person convicted of violating subsection (6)
4588and may seek the suspension or revocation of the vessel
4589registration, existing reef-construction permits, or other state
4590marine licenses held by the violator. For the purposes of this
4591section, conviction includes any judicial disposition other than
4592acquittal or dismissal.
4593     Section 82.  Section 370.23, Florida Statutes, is
4594renumbered as section 379.25, Florida Statutes, to read:
4595     379.25 370.23  Sale of unlawfully landed product;
4596jurisdiction.--It is unlawful for any person to bring to port,
4597sell, or offer to sell any saltwater life landed in violation of
4598the provisions of this chapter. Any person committing such a
4599violation and docking his or her vessel at any port in the
4600state, whether or not such product was landed in the territorial
4601waters of the state, shall be deemed to have submitted himself
4602or herself to the jurisdiction of the courts of this state for
4603the purpose of the enforcement of the provisions of this
4604chapter.
4605     Section 83.  Section 370.1601, Florida Statutes, is
4606renumbered as section 379.2511, Florida Statutes, and amended to
4607read:
4608     379.2511 370.1601  Lease of state-owned water bottoms for
4609growing oysters and clams.--Effective July 1, 1988, persons
4610wishing to lease state-owned water bottoms for the purpose of
4611growing oysters and clams shall no longer be required to apply
4612under the provisions of s. 379.2525 370.16; such leases shall be
4613issued pursuant to the provisions of ss. 253.67-253.75.
4614     Section 84.  Section 370.161, Florida Statutes, is
4615renumbered as section 379.2512, Florida Statutes, to read:
4616     379.2512 370.161  Oyster bottom land grants made pursuant
4617to ch. 3293.--
4618     (1)  All grants previously issued by the several boards of
4619county commissioners under the authority of chapter 3293, 1881,
4620Laws of Florida, shall be subject to provisions of s. 597.010,
4621relating to the marking of such lands, the payment of rents, the
4622cultivation of such lands and the forfeiture provisions.
4623     (2)  Any grantee of lands referred to in subsection (1)
4624shall mark such lands and begin cultivation thereof as set forth
4625in s. 597.010, within 90 days after the effective date of this
4626act. The rentals prescribed by s. 597.010, shall be payable
4627immediately upon the effective date of this act and in
4628accordance with the provisions of said section.
4629     (3)  If any grantee shall fail to comply with the
4630provisions of this act his or her grant shall become null and
4631void and the lands shall return to the ownership and
4632jurisdiction of the state.
4633     Section 85.  Section 370.027, Florida Statutes, is
4634renumbered as section 379.2521, Florida Statutes, and amended to
4635read:
4636     379.2521 370.027  Rulemaking authority with respect to
4637marine life.--Marine aquaculture producers shall be regulated by
4638the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. The Fish
4639and Wildlife Conservation Commission shall adopt rules, by March
46401, 2000, to regulate the sale of farmed red drum and spotted sea
4641trout. These rules shall specifically provide for the protection
4642of the wild resource, without restricting a certified
4643aquaculture producer pursuant to s. 597.004 from being able to
4644sell farmed fish. To that extent, these rules must only require
4645that farmed fish be kept separate from wild fish and be fed
4646commercial feed; that farmed fish be placed in sealed
4647containers; that these sealed containers must have the name,
4648address, telephone number and aquaculture certificate number,
4649issued pursuant to s. 597.004, of the farmer clearly and
4650indelibly placed on the container; and that this information
4651must accompany the fish to the ultimate point of sale. Marine
4652aquaculture products produced by a marine aquaculture producer,
4653certified pursuant to s. 597.004, are exempt from Fish and
4654Wildlife Conservation Commission resource management rules, with
4655the exception of such rules governing any fish of the genus
4656Centropomus (snook). By July 1, 2000, the Fish and Wildlife
4657Conservation Commission shall develop procedures to allow
4658persons possessing a valid aquaculture certificate of
4659registration to sell and transport live snook produced in
4660private ponds or private hatcheries as brood stock, to stock
4661private ponds, or for aquarium display consistent with the
4662provisions of rules adopted by the Department of Agriculture and
4663Consumer Services rule 39-23.009, Florida Administrative Code.
4664     Section 86.  Section 370.1603, Florida Statutes, is
4665renumbered as section 379.2522, Florida Statutes, and amended to
4666read:
4667     379.2522 370.1603  Oysters produced in and outside state;
4668labeling; tracing; rules.--
4669     (1)  No wholesale or retail dealer, as defined in s.
4670379.362 (1) 370.07(1), shall sell any oysters produced outside
4671this state unless they are labeled as such, or unless it is
4672otherwise reasonably made known to the purchaser that the
4673oysters were not produced in this state.
4674     (2)  The Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services
4675shall promulgate rules whereby oysters produced in Florida
4676waters can be traced to the location from which they were
4677harvested. A wholesale or retail dealer may not sell any oysters
4678produced in this state unless they are labeled so that they may
4679be traced to the point of harvesting.
4680     Section 87.  Section 370.26, Florida Statutes, is
4681renumbered as section 379.2523, Florida Statutes, and amended to
4682read:
4683     379.2523 370.26  Aquaculture definitions; marine
4684aquaculture products, producers, and facilities.--
4685     (1)  As used in this section, the term:
4686     (a)  "Marine aquaculture facility" means a facility built
4687and operated for the purpose of producing marine aquaculture
4688products. Marine aquaculture facilities contain culture systems
4689such as, but not limited to, ponds, tanks, raceways, cages, and
4690bags used for commercial production, propagation, growout, or
4691product enhancement of marine products. Marine aquaculture
4692facilities specifically do not include:
4693     1.  Facilities that maintain marine aquatic organisms
4694exclusively for the purpose of shipping, distribution,
4695marketing, or wholesale and retail sales;
4696     2.  Facilities that maintain marine aquatic organisms for
4697noncommercial, education, exhibition, or scientific purposes;
4698     3.  Facilities in which the activity does not require an
4699aquaculture certification pursuant to s. 597.004; or
4700     4.  Facilities used by marine aquarium hobbyists.
4701     (b)  "Marine aquaculture producer" means a person holding
4702an aquaculture certificate pursuant to s. 597.004 to produce
4703marine aquaculture products.
4704     (c)  "Marine aquaculture product" means any product derived
4705from marine aquatic organisms that are owned and propagated,
4706grown, or produced under controlled conditions by a person
4707holding an aquaculture certificate pursuant to s. 597.004. Such
4708product does not include organisms harvested from the wild for
4709depuration, wet storage, or relayed for the purpose of
4710controlled purification. Marine aquaculture products are
4711considered saltwater products for the purposes of this chapter,
4712except the holder of an aquaculture certificate is not required
4713to purchase and possess a saltwater products license in order to
4714possess, transport, or sell marine aquaculture products pursuant
4715to s. 379.361 370.06. To renew an existing restricted species
4716endorsement, marine aquaculture producers possessing a valid
4717saltwater products license with a restricted species endorsement
4718may apply income from the sales of marine aquaculture products
4719to licensed wholesale dealers. Income from the sales of marine
4720aquaculture products shall not be eligible for the purpose of
4721acquiring a new restricted species endorsement. The holder of an
4722aquaculture certificate must purchase and possess a saltwater
4723products license in order to possess, transport, or sell
4724saltwater products not specifically provided for in s. 597.004.
4725     (2)  The Department of Environmental Protection shall
4726encourage the development of aquaculture and the production of
4727aquaculture products. The department shall develop a process
4728consistent with this section that would consolidate permits,
4729general permits, and other regulatory requirements to streamline
4730the permitting process and result in effective regulation of
4731aquaculture activities. This process shall provide for a single
4732application and application fee for marine aquaculture
4733activities which are regulated by the department. Procedures to
4734consolidate permitting actions under this section do not
4735constitute rules within the meaning of s. 120.52.
4736     (3)  Until aquaculture general permits under s. 403.814 can
4737be expanded and developed, the department shall establish
4738criteria to temporarily permit aquaculture activities that may
4739be presumed not to result in adverse environmental impacts. The
4740criteria developed pursuant to this subsection do not constitute
4741rules within the meaning of s. 120.52. Permit application fees
4742under this subsection shall be no more than that established for
4743a general permit. The department may delegate to the water
4744management districts the regulatory authority for aquaculture
4745facilities subject to the temporary general permitting criteria
4746of this subsection. During the period prior to development of a
4747general permit under s. 403.814, the department shall establish
4748a compliance plan based on monitoring results that will assist
4749in the development of the general permit.
4750     (4)  The department shall request that the Aquaculture
4751Review Council identify a working group of industry
4752representatives who can provide technical assistance in
4753developing aquaculture general permits. The industry
4754representatives shall come from the segment of the industry to
4755be affected by the specific general permit to be developed. The
4756working group shall be included in all phases of developing the
4757aquaculture general permits.
4758     (5)  The department shall:
4759     (a)  Coordinate with the Aquaculture Review Council, the
4760Aquaculture Interagency Coordinating Council, and the Department
4761of Agriculture and Consumer Services when developing criteria
4762for aquaculture general permits.
4763     (b)  Permit experimental technologies to collect and
4764evaluate data necessary to reduce or mitigate environmental
4765concerns.
4766     (c)  Provide technical expertise and promote the transfer
4767of information that would be beneficial to the development of
4768aquaculture.
4769     (6)  The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission shall
4770encourage the development of aquaculture in the state through
4771the following:
4772     (a)  Providing assistance in developing technologies
4773applicable to aquaculture activities, evaluating practicable
4774production alternatives, and providing management agreements to
4775develop innovative culture practices.
4776     (b)  Facilitating aquaculture research on life histories,
4777stock enhancement, and alternative species, and providing
4778research results that would assist in the evaluation,
4779development, and commercial production of candidate species for
4780aquaculture, including:
4781     1.  Providing eggs, larvae, fry, and fingerlings to
4782aquaculturists when excess cultured stocks are available from
4783the commission's facilities and the culture activities are
4784consistent with the commission's stock enhancement projects.
4785Such stocks may be obtained by reimbursing the commission for
4786the cost of production on a per-unit basis. Revenues resulting
4787from the sale of stocks shall be deposited into the trust fund
4788used to support the production of such stocks.
4789     2.  Conducting research programs to evaluate candidate
4790species when funding and staff are available.
4791     3.  Encouraging the private production of marine fish and
4792shellfish stocks for the purpose of providing such stocks for
4793statewide stock enhancement programs. When such stocks become
4794available, the commission shall reduce or eliminate duplicative
4795production practices that would result in direct competition
4796with private commercial producers.
4797     4.  Developing a working group, in cooperation with the
4798Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, the Aquaculture
4799Review Council, and the Aquaculture Interagency Coordinating
4800Council, to plan and facilitate the development of private
4801marine fish and nonfish hatcheries and to encourage
4802private/public partnerships to promote the production of marine
4803aquaculture products.
4804     (c)  Coordinating with public and private research
4805institutions within the state to advance the aquaculture
4806production and sale of sturgeon as a food fish.
4807     (7)  The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission shall
4808coordinate with the Aquaculture Review Council and the
4809Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services to establish and
4810implement grant programs to provide funding for projects and
4811programs that are identified in the state's aquaculture plan,
4812pending legislative appropriations. The commission and the
4813Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services shall establish
4814and implement a grant program to make grants available to
4815qualified nonprofit, educational, and research entities or local
4816governments to fund infrastructure, planning, practical and
4817applied research, development projects, production economic
4818analysis, and training and stock enhancement projects, and to
4819make grants available to counties, municipalities, and other
4820state and local entities for applied aquaculture projects that
4821are directed to economic development, pending legislative
4822appropriations.
4823     (8)  The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission shall
4824provide assistance to the Department of Agriculture and Consumer
4825Services in the development of an aquaculture plan for the
4826state.
4827     Section 88.  Section 370.31, Florida Statutes, is
4828renumbered as section 379.2524, Florida Statutes, to read:
4829     379.2524 370.31  Commercial production of sturgeon.--
4830     (1)  INTENT.--The Legislature finds and declares that there
4831is a need to encourage the continuation and advancement of work
4832being done on aquaculture sturgeon production in keeping with
4833the state's legislative public policy regarding aquaculture
4834provided in chapter 597. It also finds that it is in the state's
4835economic interest to promote the commercial production and stock
4836enhancement of sturgeon. It is therefore the intent of the
4837Legislature to hereby create a Sturgeon Production Working
4838Group.
4839     (2)  CREATION.--The Sturgeon Production Working Group is
4840created within the Department of Agriculture and Consumer
4841Services and shall be composed of seven members as follows:
4842     (a)  The head of the sturgeon research program or designee
4843from the University of Florida, Institute of Food and
4844Agricultural Sciences. Such member shall be appointed by the
4845University of Florida's Vice President for Agricultural Affairs.
4846     (b)  One representative from the Department of
4847Environmental Protection to be appointed by the Secretary of
4848Environmental Protection.
4849     (c)  One representative from the Fish and Wildlife
4850Conservation Commission to be appointed by the executive
4851director of the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
4852     (d)  One representative from the Department of Agriculture
4853and Consumer Services to be appointed by the Commissioner of
4854Agriculture.
4855     (e)  Two representatives from the aquaculture industry to
4856be appointed by the Aquaculture Review Council.
4857     (f)  One representative from a private nonprofit
4858organization involved in sturgeon production work, to be
4859appointed by the Commissioner of Agriculture.
4860     (3)  MEETINGS; PROCEDURES; RECORDS.--The working group
4861shall meet at least twice a year and elect, by a quorum, a chair
4862and vice chair.
4863     (a)  The chair of the working group shall preside at all
4864meetings and shall call a meeting as often as necessary to carry
4865out the provisions of this section.
4866     (b)  The Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services
4867shall keep a complete record of the proceedings of each meeting,
4868which includes the names of the members present at each meeting
4869and the actions taken. The records shall be public records
4870pursuant to chapter 119.
4871     (c)  A quorum shall consist of a majority of the group
4872members. Members of the group shall not receive compensation,
4873but shall be entitled to per diem and travel expenses, including
4874attendance at meetings, as allowed public officers and employees
4875pursuant to s. 112.061.
4876     (4)  PURPOSE AND RESPONSIBILITIES.--The purpose of the
4877Sturgeon Production Working Group is to coordinate the
4878implementation of a state sturgeon production management plan to
4879promote the commercial production and stock enhancement of
4880sturgeon in Florida. In carrying out this purpose, the working
4881group shall:
4882     (a)  Establish a state sturgeon production management plan
4883to inform public or private interested parties of how to
4884aquaculturally produce sturgeon for commercial purposes and for
4885stock enhancement. The sturgeon production management plan
4886shall:
4887     1.  Provide the regulatory policies for the commercial
4888production of sturgeon meat and roe, including a strategy for
4889obtaining the required permits, licenses, authorizations, or
4890certificates.
4891     2.  Provide the management practices for culturing sturgeon
4892and ensure that aquacultural development does not impede the
4893recovery and conservation of wild sturgeon populations.
4894     3.  Establish priorities for research needed to support the
4895commercial production of sturgeon and the recovery of native
4896stocks in the state.
4897     (b)  Support management strategies to permit the commercial
4898production of native and nonnative sturgeon, including the
4899distribution of captive-bred Gulf sturgeon to approved certified
4900aquaculture facilities.
4901     (c)  Support the development of a cooperative sturgeon
4902conservation program to coordinate conservation, habitat, and
4903resource management programs for native sturgeon, including an
4904evaluation of how stock enhancement can facilitate the
4905conservation and recovery of native sturgeon populations.
4906     (d)  Seek federal cooperation to implement the sturgeon
4907production management plan, including federal designation of
4908captive-bred sturgeon as distinct population segments to
4909distinguish cultivated stocks from wild native populations.
4910     (e)  Develop enforcement guidelines to ensure continued
4911protection of wild native sturgeon populations.
4912     (f)  In furtherance of the purposes and responsibilities of
4913the Sturgeon Production Working Group, the state shall:
4914     1.  Establish a program to coordinate conservation and
4915aquaculture activities for native sturgeon.
4916     2.  Develop a conservation plan for native sturgeon.
4917     3.  Initiate the process to petition for delisting captive-
4918bred shortnose sturgeon.
4919     4.  Initiate the process to petition for delisting captive-
4920bred Gulf sturgeon.
4921     (g)  Establish a sturgeon broodstock committee composed of
4922fishery scientists, fish farmers, and agency representatives to
4923manage the taking of wild sturgeon for brood fish and spawning.
4924     (h)  Establish the Cooperative Broodstock Development and
4925Husbandry Board composed of fishery scientists, fish farmers,
4926and agency representatives to establish standards and criteria
4927for the management and maintenance of captive-reared sturgeon,
4928to collect biological data, and to administer the Cooperative
4929Broodstock Development and Husbandry Program.
4930     Section 89.  Section 370.16, Florida Statutes, is
4931renumbered as section 379.2525, Florida Statutes, and amended to
4932read:
4933     379.2525 370.16  Noncultured shellfish harvesting.--
4934     (1)  PROTECTION OF SHELLFISH AQUACULTURE PRODUCTS.--
4935     (a)  The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission shall
4936assist in protecting shellfish aquaculture products produced on
4937leased or granted reefs in the hands of lessees or grantees from
4938the state. Harvesting shellfish is prohibited within a distance
4939of 25 feet outside lawfully marked lease boundaries or within
4940setback and access corridors within specifically designated
4941high-density aquaculture lease areas and aquaculture use zones.
4942     (b)  The department, in cooperation with the commission,
4943shall provide the Legislature with recommendations as needed for
4944the development and the proper protection of the rights of the
4945state and private holders therein with respect to the oyster and
4946clam business.
4947     (2)  REMOVING OYSTERS, CLAMS, OR MUSSELS FROM NATURAL
4948REEFS; LICENSES, ETC., PENALTY.--
4949     (a)  It is unlawful to use a dredge or any means or
4950implement other than hand tongs in removing oysters from the
4951natural or artificial state reefs. This restriction shall apply
4952to all areas of Apalachicola Bay for all shellfish harvesting,
4953excluding private grounds leased or granted by the state prior
4954to July 1, 1989, if the lease or grant specifically authorizes
4955the use of implements other than hand tongs for harvesting.
4956Except in Apalachicola Bay, upon the payment of $25 annually,
4957for each vessel or boat using a dredge or machinery in the
4958gathering of clams or mussels, a special activity license may be
4959issued by the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission pursuant
4960to s. 379.361 370.06 for such use to such person.
4961     (b)  The use of any mechanical harvesting device other than
4962ordinary hand tongs for taking shellfish for any purpose from
4963public shellfish beds in Apalachicola Bay shall be unlawful.
4964     (c)  The possession of any mechanical harvesting device on
4965the waters of Apalachicola Bay from 5 p.m. until sunrise shall
4966be unlawful.
4967     (d)  Each vessel used for the transport or deployment of a
4968dredge or scrape shall prominently display the lease or grant
4969number or numbers, in numerals which are at least 12 inches high
4970and 6 inches wide, in such a manner that the lease or grant
4971number or numbers are readily identifiable from both the air and
4972the water.
4973     (e)  Oysters may be harvested from natural or public
4974grounds by common hand tongs or by hand, by scuba diving, free
4975diving, leaning from vessels, or wading. In the Apalachicola
4976Bay, this provision shall apply to all shellfish.
4977
4978The commission shall apply other statutes, rules, or conditions
4979necessary to protect the environment and natural resources from
4980improper transport, deployment, and operation of a dredge or
4981scrape. Any violation of this subsection or of any other
4982statutes, rules, or conditions referenced in the special
4983activity license shall be considered a violation of the license
4984and shall result in revocation of the license and forfeiture of
4985the bond submitted to the commission as a prerequisite to the
4986issuance of this license.
4987     (3)  FALSE RETURNS AS TO OYSTERS OR CLAMS HANDLED.--Each
4988packer, canner, corporation, firm, commission person, or dealer
4989in fish shall, on the first day of each month, make a return
4990under oath to the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, as
4991to the number of oysters, clams, and shellfish purchased,
4992caught, or handled during the preceding month. Whoever is found
4993guilty of making any false affidavit to any such report is
4994guilty of perjury and punished as provided by law, and any
4995person who fails to make such report shall be punished by a fine
4996not exceeding $500 or by imprisonment in the county jail not
4997exceeding 6 months.
4998     (4)  SEIZURE OF VESSELS AND CARGOES VIOLATING OYSTER AND
4999CLAM LAWS, ETC.--Vessels, with their cargoes, violating the
5000provisions of the laws relating to oysters and clams may be
5001seized by anyone duly and lawfully authorized to make arrests
5002under this section or by any sheriff or the sheriff's deputies,
5003and taken into custody, and when not arrested by the sheriff or
5004the sheriff's deputies, delivered to the sheriff of the county
5005in which the seizure is made, and shall be liable to forfeiture,
5006on appropriate proceedings being instituted by the Fish and
5007Wildlife Conservation Commission, before the courts of that
5008county. In such case the cargo shall at once be disposed of by
5009the sheriff, for account of whom it may concern. Should the
5010master or any of the crew of said vessel be found guilty of
5011using dredges or other instruments in fishing oysters on natural
5012reefs contrary to law, or fishing on the natural oyster or clam
5013reefs out of season, or unlawfully taking oysters or clams
5014belonging to a lessee, such vessel shall be declared forfeited
5015by the court, and ordered sold and the proceeds of the sale
5016shall be deposited with the Chief Financial Officer to the
5017credit of the General Revenue Fund; any person guilty of such
5018violations shall not be permitted to have any license provided
5019for in this chapter within a period of 1 year from the date of
5020conviction. Pending proceedings such vessel may be released upon
5021the owner furnishing bond, with good and solvent security in
5022double the value of the vessel, conditioned upon its being
5023returned in good condition to the sheriff to abide the judgment
5024of the court.
5025     (5)  DREDGING OF DEAD SHELLS PROHIBITED.--The dredging of
5026dead shell deposits is prohibited in the state.
5027     (6)  REQUIREMENTS FOR OYSTER VESSELS.--All vessels used for
5028the harvesting, gathering, or transporting of noncultured
5029oysters for commercial use shall be constructed and maintained
5030to prevent contamination or deterioration of oysters. To this
5031end, all such vessels shall be provided with false bottoms and
5032bulkheads fore and aft to prevent oysters from coming in contact
5033with any bilge water. No dogs or other animals shall be allowed
5034at any time on vessels used to harvest or transport oysters. A
5035violation of any provision of this subsection shall result in at
5036least the revocation of the violator's license.
5037     Section 90.  Section 370.081, Florida Statutes, is
5038renumbered as section 379.26, Florida Statutes, and amended to
5039read:
5040     379.26 370.081  Illegal importation or possession of
5041nonindigenous marine plants and animals; rules and
5042regulations.--
5043     (1)  It is unlawful to import or possess any marine plant
5044or marine animal, not indigenous to the state, which, due to the
5045stimulating effect of the waters of the state on procreation,
5046may endanger or infect the marine resources of the state or pose
5047a human health hazard, except as provided in this section.
5048     (2)  Marine animals not to be imported shall include, but
5049are not limited to, all species of the following:
5050     (a)  Sea snakes (Family Hydrophiidae), except as provided
5051in subsection (4);
5052     (b)  Weeverfishes (Family Trachinidae); and
5053     (c)  Stonefishes (Genus Synanceja).
5054     (3)  The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is
5055authorized to adopt, pursuant to chapter 120, rules and
5056regulations to include any additional marine plant or marine
5057animal which may endanger or infect the marine resources of the
5058state or pose a human health hazard.
5059     (4)  A zoological park and aquarium may import sea snakes
5060of the family Hydrophiidae for exhibition purposes only under
5061the following conditions:
5062     (a)  Only male sea snakes may be possessed.
5063     (b)  A zoological park and aquarium possessing sea snakes
5064shall not be located in a coastal county and shall have no
5065contiguous connection with any waters of the state.
5066     (c)  Each zoological park and aquarium possessing sea
5067snakes shall provide quarterly reports to the department
5068regarding the number of each species of sea snakes on the
5069premises and any changes in inventory resulting from death or
5070additions by importation.
5071     (d)  Sea snakes shall not be released into the waters of
5072the state.
5073     (e)  Each zoological park and aquarium possessing sea
5074snakes shall post with the commission a $1 million letter of
5075credit. The letter of credit shall be in favor of the State of
5076Florida, Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, for use by
5077the commission to remove any sea snake accidentally or
5078intentionally introduced into waters of the state. The letter of
5079credit shall be written in the form determined by the
5080commission. The letter of credit shall provide that the
5081zoological park and aquarium is responsible for the sea snakes
5082within that facility and shall be in effect at all times that
5083the zoological park and aquarium possesses sea snakes.
5084     (f)  A zoological park and aquarium shall not barter, sell,
5085or trade sea snakes within this state.
5086     (g)  A zoological park and aquarium that imports sea snakes
5087may bring the sea snakes into this state only by airplane that
5088may only land at an airport located in a noncoastal county
5089within this state.
5090     (h)  A zoological park and aquarium possessing sea snakes
5091shall abide by all statutory and regulatory requirements of the
5092Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission with respect to
5093venomous reptiles.
5094     (5)  It is unlawful to release into the waters of the state
5095any nonindigenous saltwater species whether or not included in
5096subsection (2) or prohibited by rules and regulations adopted
5097pursuant to subsection (3) or authorized by subsection (4).
5098     (6)  Any person who violates this section commits a Level
5099Three violation under s. 379.401 372.83.
5100     Section 91.  Part III of chapter 379, Florida Statutes,
5101consisting of section 379.28, is created to read:
5102
PART III
5103
FRESHWATER AQUATIC LIFE
5104
5105     Section 92.  Section 372.26, Florida Statutes, is
5106renumbered as section 379.28, Florida Statutes, and amended to
5107read:
5108     379.28 372.26  Imported fish.--
5109     (1)  No person shall import into the state or place in any
5110of the fresh waters of the state any freshwater fish of any
5111species without having first obtained a permit from the Fish and
5112Wildlife Conservation Commission. The commission is authorized
5113to issue or deny such a permit upon the completion of studies of
5114the species made by it to determine any detrimental effect the
5115species might have on the ecology of the state.
5116     (2)  A person who violates this section commits a Level
5117Three violation under s. 379.401 372.83.
5118     Section 93.  Part IV of chapter 379, Florida Statutes,
5119consisting of sections 379.3001, 379.3002, 379.3003, 379.3004,
5120379.3011, 379.3012, 379.3013, 379.3014, 379.3015, 379.3016,
5121379.3017, 379.302, 379.303, 379.304, 379.305, 379.3061,
5122379.3062, and 379.3063, is created to read:
5123
PART IV
5124
WILD ANIMAL LIFE
5125
5126     Section 94.  Section 372.0025, Florida Statutes, is  
5127renumbered as section 379.3001, Florida Statutes, to read:
5128     379.3001 372.0025  No net loss of hunting lands.--
5129     (1)  As used in this section, the term:
5130     (a)  "Commission" means the Fish and Wildlife Conservation
5131Commission.
5132     (b)  "Commission-managed lands" means those lands owned by
5133the commission, those lands owned by the state over which the
5134commission holds management authority, or those privately owned
5135lands that are leased or managed by the commission.
5136     (c)  "Hunting" means the lawful pursuit, trapping,
5137shooting, capture, collection, or killing of wildlife or the
5138lawful attempt to pursue, trap, shoot, capture, collect, or kill
5139wildlife.
5140     (2)  Commission-managed lands shall be open to access and
5141use for hunting except as limited by the commission for reasons
5142of public safety, fish or wildlife management, or homeland
5143security or as otherwise limited by law.
5144     (3)  The commission, in exercising its authority under the
5145State Constitution and statutes, shall exercise its authority,
5146consistent with subsection (2), in a manner that supports,
5147promotes, and enhances hunting opportunities to the extent
5148authorized by state law.
5149     (4)  Commission land management decisions and actions,
5150including decisions made by private owners to close hunting land
5151managed by the commission, shall not result in any net loss of
5152habitat land acreage available for hunting opportunities on
5153commission-managed lands that exists on the effective date of
5154this act. The commission shall expeditiously find replacement
5155acreage for hunting to compensate for closures of any existing
5156hunting land. Replacement lands shall, to the greatest extent
5157possible, be located within the same administrative region of
5158the commission and shall be consistent with the hunting
5159discipline that the commission allowed on the closed land.
5160     (5)  Any state agency or water management district that
5161owns or manages lands shall assist and coordinate and cooperate
5162with the commission to allow hunting on such lands if such lands
5163are determined by the commission to be suitable for hunting. To
5164ensure no net loss of land acreage available for hunting, state
5165agencies and water management districts shall cooperate with the
5166commission to open new, additional hunting lands to replace lost
5167hunting acreage. However, lands officially designated as units
5168within the state park system may not be considered for
5169replacement hunting lands and may only be opened for hunting
5170when necessary as a wildlife control or management tool as
5171determined by the Division of Recreation and Parks in the
5172Department of Environmental Protection.
5173     (6)  By October 1 of each year, the executive director of
5174the commission shall submit to the Legislature a written report
5175describing:
5176     (a)  The acreage managed by the commission that was closed
5177to hunting during the previous fiscal year and the reasons for
5178the closures.
5179     (b)  The acreage managed by the commission that was opened
5180to hunting to compensate for closures of existing land pursuant
5181to subsection (4).
5182     (7)  By October 1 of each year, any state agency or water
5183management district that owns or manages lands shall submit a
5184written report to the commission and the Legislature that
5185includes:
5186     (a)  A list of properties that were open for hunting during
5187the previous fiscal year.
5188     (b)  A list of properties that were not open for hunting
5189during the previous fiscal year.
5190     (c)  The acreage for each property and the county where
5191each property is located, except for right-of-way lands and
5192parcels under 50 acres.
5193     Section 95.  Section 372.023, Florida Statutes, is
5194renumbered as section 379.3002, Florida Statutes, to read:
5195     379.3002 372.023  J. W. Corbett and Cecil M. Webb Wildlife
5196Management Areas.--
5197     (1)  The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission of this
5198state is neither authorized nor empowered to do the following as
5199to the J. W. Corbett Wildlife Management Area in Palm Beach
5200County or the Cecil M. Webb Wildlife Management Area without the
5201approval of the Board of Trustees of the Internal Improvement
5202Trust Fund that such action is in the best interest of orderly
5203and economical development of said area, viz.:
5204     (a)  To trade, barter, lease, or exchange lands therein for
5205lands of greater acreage contiguous to said wildlife management
5206areas.
5207     (b)  To grant easements for construction and maintenance of
5208roads, railroads, canals, ditches, dikes, and utilities,
5209including but not limited to telephone, telegraph, oil, gas,
5210electric power, water, and sewers.
5211     (c)  To convey or release all rights in and to the
5212phosphate, minerals, metals, and petroleum that is or may be in,
5213on or under any lands traded, bartered, leased, or exchanged
5214pursuant to paragraph (a).
5215     (2)  The Board of Trustees of the Internal Improvement
5216Trust Fund and the State Board of Education and all and every
5217board, state department or state agency of the state having any
5218title, right and interest in or to the land including oil and
5219mineral rights in the lands to be traded, bartered, leased or
5220exchanged within the J. W. Corbett Wildlife Management Area in
5221Palm Beach County, is authorized and empowered to convey this
5222interest of whatsoever nature to the record owner.
5223     (3)  Moneys received from the sale of lands within either
5224wildlife management area, less reasonable expenses incident to
5225the sale, shall be used by the Fish and Wildlife Conservation
5226Commission to acquire acreage contiguous to the wildlife
5227management area or lands of equal wildlife value. The sale shall
5228be made directly to the state, notwithstanding the procedures of
5229s. 270.08 to the contrary.
5230     Section 96.  Section 372.988, Florida Statutes, is
5231renumbered as section 379.3003, Florida Statutes, and amended to
5232read:
5233     379.3003 372.988  Required clothing for persons hunting
5234deer.--It is a Level One violation under s. 379.401 372.83 for
5235any person to hunt deer, or for any person to accompany another
5236person hunting deer, during the open season for the taking of
5237deer on public lands unless each person shall wear a total of at
5238least 500 square inches of daylight fluorescent orange material
5239as an outer garment. Such clothing shall be worn above the
5240waistline and may include a head covering. The provisions of
5241this section shall not apply to any person hunting deer with a
5242bow and arrow during seasons restricted to hunting with a bow
5243and arrow.
5244     Section 97.  Section 372.7016, Florida Statutes, is
5245renumbered as section 379.3004, Florida Statutes, and amended to
5246read:
5247     379.3004 372.7016  Voluntary Authorized Hunter
5248Identification Program.--
5249     (1)  There is created the "Voluntary Authorized Hunter
5250Identification Program" to assist landowners and law enforcement
5251officials in better controlling trespass and illegal or
5252unauthorized hunting. Landowners wishing to participate in the
5253program shall:
5254     (a)  Annually notify the sheriff's office in the county in
5255which the land is situated and the respective area supervisor of
5256the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission by letter of their
5257desire to participate in the program, and provide a description
5258of their property which they wish to have in the program by
5259township, range, section, partial section, or other geographical
5260description.
5261     (b)  Provide a means of identifying authorized hunters as
5262provided in subsection (2).
5263     (2)  Any person hunting on private land enrolled in the
5264Voluntary Authorized Hunter Identification Program shall have
5265readily available on the land at all times when hunting on the
5266property written authorization from the owner or his or her
5267authorized representative to be on the land for the purpose of
5268hunting. The written authorization shall be presented on demand
5269to any law enforcement officer, the owner, or the authorized
5270agent of the owner.
5271     (a)  For purposes of this section, the term "hunting" means
5272to be engaged in or reasonably equipped to engage in the pursuit
5273or taking by any means of any animal described in s. 379.101
5274(19) or (20) 372.001(10) or (11), and the term "written
5275authorization" means a card, letter, or other written instrument
5276which shall include, but need not be limited to, the name of the
5277person or entity owning the property, the name and signature of
5278the person granting the authorization, a description by
5279township, range, section, partial section, or other geographical
5280description of the land to which the authorization applies, and
5281a statement of the time period during which the authorization is
5282valid.
5283     (b)  Failure by any person hunting on private land enrolled
5284in the program to present written authorization to hunt on said
5285land to any law enforcement officer or the owner or
5286representative thereof within 7 days of demand shall be prima
5287facie evidence of violation of s. 810.09(2)(c), punishable as
5288provided in s. 775.082, s. 775.083, or s. 775.084. However, such
5289evidence may be contradicted or rebutted by other evidence.
5290     Section 98.  Section 372.6671, Florida Statutes, is
5291renumbered as section 379.3011, Florida Statutes, and amended to
5292read:
5293     379.3011 372.6671  Alligator trapping program;
5294definitions.--Unless otherwise provided by a specific section or
5295the context otherwise requires, as used in ss. 379.3011,
5296379.3012, 379.3751, and 379.3752 372.6671-372.6674, the
5297following definitions shall apply:
5298     (1)  "Alligator" means a member of the species of alligator
5299(Alligator mississippiensis) but does not mean its eggs.
5300     (2)  "Alligator hatchling" means a juvenile alligator as
5301more specifically defined by commission rule.
5302     (3)  "Process" or "processing" means the skinning,
5303butchering, or possession of alligators.
5304     Section 99.  Section 372.6672, Florida Statutes, is
5305renumbered as section 379.3012, Florida Statutes, to read:
5306     379.3012 372.6672  Alligator management and trapping
5307program implementation; commission authority.--
5308     (1)  In any alligator management and trapping program that
5309the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission shall establish,
5310the commission shall have the authority to adopt all rules
5311necessary for full and complete implementation of such alligator
5312management and trapping program, and, in order to ensure its
5313lawful, safe, and efficient operation in accordance therewith,
5314may:
5315     (a)  Regulate the marketing and sale of alligators, their
5316hides, eggs, meat, and byproducts, including the development and
5317maintenance of a state-sanctioned sale.
5318     (b)  Regulate the handling and processing of alligators,
5319their eggs, hides, meat, and byproducts, for the lawful, safe,
5320and sanitary handling and processing of same.
5321     (c)  Regulate commercial alligator farming facilities and
5322operations for the captive propagation and rearing of alligators
5323and their eggs.
5324     (d)  Provide hide-grading services by two or more
5325individuals pursuant to state-sanctioned sales if rules are
5326first promulgated by the commission governing:
5327     1.  All grading-related services to be provided pursuant to
5328this section;
5329     2.  Criteria for qualifications of persons to serve as
5330hide-graders for grading services to be provided pursuant to
5331this section; and
5332     3.  The certification process by which hide-graders
5333providing services pursuant to this section will be certified.
5334     (e)  Provide sales-related services by contract pursuant to
5335state-sanctioned sales if rules governing such services are
5336first promulgated by the commission.
5337     (2)  All contractors of the commission for the grading,
5338marketing, and sale of alligators and their hides, eggs, meat,
5339and byproducts shall not engage in any act constituting a
5340conflict of interest under part III of chapter 112.
5341     (3)  The powers and duties of the commission hereunder
5342shall not be construed so as to supersede the regulatory
5343authority or lawful responsibility of the Department of
5344Agriculture and Consumer Services, the Department of Health, or
5345any local governmental entity regarding the processing or
5346handling of food products, but shall be deemed supplemental
5347thereto.
5348     Section 100.  Section 372.6678, Florida Statutes, is
5349renumbered as section 379.3013, Florida Statutes, to read:
5350     379.3013 372.6678  Alligator study requirements.--The
5351commission shall conduct studies of all areas of the state which
5352it intends to open to alligator collection permits. The study
5353shall include individual wet areas, lakes, and rivers, or
5354reasonable numbers of wet areas, lakes, and rivers that may be
5355logically grouped. The studies shall determine the safe yield of
5356alligators for which collection permits may be issued. The
5357studies shall be based upon the best biological information that
5358indicates the number of alligators which can be removed from the
5359system without long-term adverse impacts on population levels.
5360     Section 101.  Section 372.662, Florida Statutes, is
5361renumbered as section 379.3014, Florida Statutes, and amended to
5362read:
5363     379.3014 372.662  Unlawful sale, possession, or
5364transporting of alligators or alligator skins.--Whenever the
5365sale, possession, or transporting of alligators or alligator
5366skins is prohibited by any law of this state, or by the rules,
5367regulations, or orders of the Fish and Wildlife Conservation
5368Commission adopted pursuant to s. 9, Art. IV of the State
5369Constitution, the sale, possession, or transporting of
5370alligators or alligator skins is a Level Three violation under
5371s. 379.401 372.83.
5372     Section 102.  Section 372.664, Florida Statutes, is
5373renumbered as section 379.3015, Florida Statutes, to read:
5374     379.3015 372.664 Prima facie evidence of intent to violate
5375laws protecting alligators.--Except as otherwise provided by
5376rule of the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission for the
5377purpose of the limited collection of alligators in designated
5378areas, the display or use of a light in a place where alligators
5379might be known to inhabit in a manner capable of disclosing the
5380presence of alligators, together with the possession of
5381firearms, spear guns, gigs, and harpoons customarily used for
5382the taking of alligators, during the period between 1 hour after
5383sunset and 1 hour before sunrise shall be prima facie evidence
5384of an intent to violate the provisions of law regarding the
5385protection of alligators.
5386     Section 103.  Section 372.6645, Florida Statutes, is
5387renumbered as section 379.3016, Florida Statutes, to read:
5388     379.3016 372.6645  Unlawful to sell alligator products;
5389penalty.--
5390     (1)  It is unlawful for any person to sell any alligator
5391product manufactured in the form of a stuffed baby alligator or
5392other baby crocodilia.
5393     (2)  No person shall sell any alligator product
5394manufactured from a species which has been declared to be
5395endangered by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service or the
5396Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
5397     (3)  Any person who violates this section is guilty of a
5398misdemeanor of the first degree, punishable as provided in s.
5399775.082 or s. 775.083.
5400     Section 104.  Section 372.665, Florida Statutes, is
5401renumbered as section 379.3017, Florida Statutes, to read:
5402     379.3017 372.665  Word "alligator" or "gator" not to be
5403used in certain sales.--It is unlawful for any person to use the
5404word "gator" or "alligator" in connection with the sale of any
5405product derived or made from the skins of other crocodilia or in
5406connection with the sale of other crocodilia. Any person
5407violating this section shall, upon conviction, be guilty of a
5408misdemeanor.
5409     Section 105.  Section 372.16, Florida Statutes, is
5410renumbered as section 379.302, Florida Statutes, and amended to
5411read:
5412     379.302 372.16  Private game preserves and farms;
5413regulations; penalties penalty.--
5414     (1)  Any person owning land in this state may establish,
5415maintain, and operate within the boundaries thereof, a private
5416preserve and farm, not exceeding an area of 640 acres, for the
5417protection, preservation, propagation, rearing, and production
5418of game birds and animals for private and commercial purposes,
5419provided that no two game preserves shall join each other or be
5420connected. Before any private game preserve or farm is
5421established, the owner or operator shall secure a license from
5422the commission, the fee for which is $50 per year.
5423     (2)  All private game preserves or farms established under
5424the provisions of this section shall be fenced in such manner
5425that domestic game thereon may not escape and wild game on
5426surrounding lands may not enter and shall be subject at any time
5427to inspection by the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission,
5428or its conservation officers. Such private preserve or farm
5429shall be equipped and operated in such manner as to provide
5430sufficient food and humane treatment for the game kept thereon.
5431Game reared or produced on private game preserves and farms
5432shall be considered domestic game and private property and may
5433be sold or disposed of as such and shall be the subject of
5434larceny. Live game may be purchased, sold, shipped, and
5435transported for propagation and restocking purposes only at any
5436time. Such game may be sold for food purposes only during the
5437open season provided by law for such game. All game killed must
5438be killed on the premises of such private game preserve or farm
5439and must be killed by means other than shooting, except during
5440the open season. All domestic game sold for food purposes must
5441be marked or tagged in a manner prescribed by the Fish and
5442Wildlife Conservation Commission; and the owner or operator of
5443such private game preserve or farm shall report to the said
5444commission, on blanks to be furnished by it, each sale or
5445shipment of domestic game, such reports showing the quantity and
5446kind of game shipped or sold and to whom sold. Such report shall
5447be made not later than 5 days following such sale or shipment.
5448Game reared or produced as aforesaid may be served as such by
5449hotels, restaurants, or other public eating places during the
5450open season provided by law on such particular species of game,
5451under such regulations as the commission may prescribe.
5452     (3)  It is unlawful for any common carrier to knowingly
5453transport or receive for transportation any domestic game unless
5454the package or container containing such shipment has attached
5455thereto a permit for such shipment and such package or container
5456shall be marked on the outside showing quantity and kind of game
5457enclosed.
5458     (4)  Any person violating this section for the first
5459offense commits a misdemeanor of the second degree, punishable
5460as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083, and for a second or
5461subsequent offense commits a misdemeanor of the first degree,
5462punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083. Any person
5463convicted of violating this section shall forfeit to the
5464commission any license issued under s. 379.3711 this section;
5465and no further license shall be issued to such person for a
5466period of 1 year following such conviction.
5467     Section 106.  Subsections (3)and (4) of section 372.922,
5468Florida Statutes, are renumbered as section 379.303, Florida
5469Statutes, and amended to read:
5470     379.303  Classification of wildlife; seizure of captive
5471wildlife.--
5472     (1)(3)  The commission shall promulgate rules defining
5473Class I, Class II, and Class III types of wildlife. The
5474commission shall also establish rules and requirements necessary
5475to ensure that permits are granted only to persons qualified to
5476possess and care properly for wildlife and that permitted
5477wildlife possessed as personal pets will be maintained in
5478sanitary surroundings and appropriate neighborhoods.
5479     (2)(4)  In instances where wildlife is seized or taken into
5480custody by the commission, said owner or possessor of such
5481wildlife shall be responsible for payment of all expenses
5482relative to the capture, transport, boarding, veterinary care,
5483or other costs associated with or incurred due to seizure or
5484custody of wildlife. Such expenses shall be paid by said owner
5485or possessor upon any conviction or finding of guilt of a
5486criminal or noncriminal violation, regardless of adjudication or
5487plea entered, of any provision of chapter 828 or this chapter,
5488or rule of the commission or if such violation is disposed of
5489under s. 921.187. Failure to pay such expense may be grounds for
5490revocation or denial of permits to such individual to possess
5491wildlife.
5492     Section 107.  Subsections (4), (5), (6), (9), and (10) of
5493section 372.921, Florida Statutes, are renumbered as section
5494379.304, Florida Statutes, and amended to read:
5495     379.304 372.921  Exhibition or sale of wildlife.--
5496     (1)(4)  Permits issued pursuant to this section and places
5497where wildlife is kept or held in captivity shall be subject to
5498inspection by officers of the commission at all times. The
5499commission shall have the power to release or confiscate any
5500specimens of any wildlife, specifically birds, mammals,
5501amphibians, or reptiles, whether indigenous to the state or not,
5502when it is found that conditions under which they are being
5503confined are unsanitary, or unsafe to the public in any manner,
5504or that the species of wildlife are being maltreated,
5505mistreated, or neglected or kept in any manner contrary to the
5506provisions of chapter 828, any such permit to the contrary
5507notwithstanding. Before any such wildlife is confiscated or
5508released under the authority of this section, the owner thereof
5509shall have been advised in writing of the existence of such
5510unsatisfactory conditions; the owner shall have been given 30
5511days in which to correct such conditions; the owner shall have
5512failed to correct such conditions; the owner shall have had an
5513opportunity for a proceeding pursuant to chapter 120; and the
5514commission shall have ordered such confiscation or release after
5515careful consideration of all evidence in the particular case in
5516question. The final order of the commission shall constitute
5517final agency action.
5518     (2)(5)  In instances where wildlife is seized or taken into
5519custody by the commission, said owner or possessor of such
5520wildlife shall be responsible for payment of all expenses
5521relative to the capture, transport, boarding, veterinary care,
5522or other costs associated with or incurred due to seizure or
5523custody of wildlife. Such expenses shall be paid by said owner
5524or possessor upon any conviction or finding of guilt of a
5525criminal or noncriminal violation, regardless of adjudication or
5526plea entered, of any provision of chapter 828 or this chapter,
5527or rule of the commission or if such violation is disposed of
5528under s. 921.187. Failure to pay such expense may be grounds for
5529revocation or denial of permits to such individual to possess
5530wildlife.
5531     (3)(6)  Any animal on exhibit of a type capable of
5532contracting or transmitting rabies shall be immunized against
5533rabies.
5534     (4)(9)  The commission is authorized to adopt rules
5535pursuant to ss. 120.536(1) and 120.54 to implement the
5536provisions of this section.
5537     (5)(10)  A violation of this section is punishable as
5538provided by s. 379.401 372.83.
5539     Section 108.  Section 372.92, Florida Statutes, is
5540renumbered as section 379.305, Florida Statutes, and amended to
5541read:
5542     379.305 372.92  Rules and regulations; penalties.--
5543     (1)  The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission may
5544prescribe such other rules and regulations as it may deem
5545necessary to prevent the escape of venomous reptiles or reptiles
5546of concern, either in connection of construction of such cages
5547or otherwise to carry out the intent of ss. 379.372-379.374
5548372.86-372.88.
5549     (2)  A person who knowingly releases a nonnative venomous
5550reptile or reptile of concern to the wild or who through gross
5551negligence allows a nonnative venomous reptile or reptile of
5552concern to escape commits a Level Three violation, punishable as
5553provided in s. 379.4015 372.935.
5554     Section 109.  Section 372.673, Florida Statutes, is
5555renumbered as section 379.3061, Florida Statutes, to read:
5556     379.3061 372.673  Florida Panther Technical Advisory
5557Council.--
5558     (1)  The Florida Panther Technical Advisory Council is
5559established within the Fish and Wildlife Conservation
5560Commission. The council shall be appointed by the Governor and
5561shall consist of seven members with technical knowledge and
5562expertise in the research and management of large mammals.
5563     (a)  Two members shall represent state or federal agencies
5564responsible for management of endangered species; two members,
5565who must have specific experience in the research and management
5566of large felines or large mammals, shall be appointed from
5567universities, colleges, or associated institutions; and three
5568members, with similar expertise, shall be appointed from the
5569public at large.
5570     (b)  As soon as practicable after July 1, 1983, one member
5571representing a state or federal agency and one member appointed
5572from a university, college, or associated institution shall be
5573appointed for terms ending August 1, 1985, and the remaining
5574members shall be appointed for terms ending August 1, 1987.
5575Thereafter, all appointments shall be for 4-year terms. If a
5576vacancy occurs, a member shall be appointed for the remainder of
5577the unexpired term. A member whose term has expired shall
5578continue sitting on the council with full rights until a
5579replacement has been appointed.
5580     (c)  Council members shall be reimbursed pursuant to s.
5581112.061 but shall receive no additional compensation or
5582honorarium.
5583     (2)  The purposes of the council are:
5584     (a)  To serve in an advisory capacity to the Fish and
5585Wildlife Conservation Commission on technical matters of
5586relevance to the Florida panther recovery program, and to
5587recommend specific actions that should be taken to accomplish
5588the purposes of this act.
5589     (b)  To review and comment on research and management
5590programs and practices to identify potential harm to the Florida
5591panther population.
5592     (c)  To provide a forum for technical review and discussion
5593of the status and development of the Florida panther recovery
5594program.
5595     Section 110.  Section 372.5714, Florida Statutes, is
5596renumbered as section 379.3062, Florida Statutes, and amended to
5597read:
5598     379.3062 372.5714  Waterfowl Advisory Council.--
5599     (1)  There is created a Waterfowl Advisory Council
5600consisting of three members, one appointed by the Governor, one
5601appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, and
5602one appointed by the President of the Senate. Members may be
5603representative of appropriate state agencies, private
5604conservation groups, or private citizens and shall possess
5605knowledge and experience in the area of waterfowl management and
5606protection. Members shall be appointed for 4-year, staggered
5607terms and shall be eligible for reappointment. A vacancy shall
5608be filled by appointment for the remainder of the unexpired
5609term.
5610     (2)  The council shall meet at least once a year either in
5611person or by a telephone conference call, shall elect a chair
5612annually to preside over its meetings and perform any other
5613duties directed by the council, and shall maintain minutes of
5614each meeting. All records of council activities shall be kept on
5615file with the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and
5616shall be made available to any interested person. The Fish and
5617Wildlife Conservation Commission shall provide such staff
5618support as is necessary to the council to carry out its duties.
5619Members of the council shall serve without compensation, but
5620shall be reimbursed for per diem and travel expenses as provided
5621in s. 112.061 when carrying out the official business of the
5622council.
5623     (3)  It shall be the duty of the council to advise the
5624commission regarding the administration of revenues generated by
5625the sale of the Florida waterfowl permit provided for by s.
5626379.2211 372.5712. In particular, the council shall consult with
5627and advise the commission with respect to the establishment and
5628operation of projects for the protection and propagation of
5629migratory waterfowl and the development, restoration,
5630maintenance, and preservation of wetlands within the state, to
5631be financed by such revenues as specified in said section.
5632     Section 111.  Section 372.992, Florida Statutes, is
5633renumbered as section 379.3063, Florida Statutes, to read:
5634     379.3063 372.992  Nongame Wildlife Advisory Council.--
5635     (1)  There is created the Nongame Wildlife Advisory
5636Council, which shall consist of the following 11 members
5637appointed by the Governor: one representative each from the Fish
5638and Wildlife Conservation Commission, the Department of
5639Environmental Protection, and the United States Fish and
5640Wildlife Services; the director of the Florida Museum of Natural
5641History or her or his designee; one representative from a
5642professional wildlife organization; one representative from a
5643private wildlife institution; one representative from a Florida
5644university or college who has expertise in nongame biology; one
5645representative of business interests from a private consulting
5646firm who has expertise in nongame biology; one representative of
5647a statewide organization of landowner interests; and two members
5648from conservation organizations. All appointments shall be for
56494-year terms. Members shall be eligible for reappointment.
5650     (2)  The council shall recommend to the commission
5651policies, objectives, and specific actions for nongame wildlife
5652research and management.
5653     (3)  Members of the council shall receive no compensation
5654but shall be entitled to receive per diem and travel expenses as
5655provided in s. 112.061, while carrying out official business
5656with the council, from funds provided under s. 379.209 372.991.
5657     Section 112.  Part V of chapter 379, Florida Statutes,
5658consisting of sections 379.33, 379.3311, 379.3312, 379.3313,
5659379.332, 379.333, 379.334, 379.335, 379.336, 379.337, 379.338,
5660379.339, 379.340, 379.341, 379.342, and 379.343, is created to
5661read:
5662
PART V
5663
LAW ENFORCEMENT
5664
5665     Section 113.  Section 370.028, Florida Statutes, is
5666renumbered as section 379.33, Florida Statutes, and amended to
5667read:
5668     379.33 370.028  Enforcement of commission rules; penalties
5669for violation of rule.--Rules of the Fish and Wildlife
5670Conservation Commission shall be enforced by any law enforcement
5671officer certified pursuant to s. 943.13. Except as provided
5672under s. 379.401 372.83, any person who violates or otherwise
5673fails to comply with any rule adopted by the commission shall be
5674punished pursuant to s. 379.407 (1) 370.021(1).
5675     Section 114.  Section 372.07, Florida Statutes, is
5676renumbered as section 379.3311, Florida Statutes, to read:
5677     379.3311 372.07  Police powers of commission and its
5678agents.--
5679     (1)  The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, the
5680executive director and the executive director's assistants
5681designated by her or him, and each wildlife officer are
5682constituted peace officers with the power to make arrests for
5683violations of the laws of this state when committed in the
5684presence of the officer or when committed on lands under the
5685supervision and management of the commission. The general laws
5686applicable to arrests by peace officers of this state shall also
5687be applicable to said director, assistants, and wildlife
5688officers. Such persons may enter upon any land or waters of the
5689state for performance of their lawful duties and may take with
5690them any necessary equipment, and such entry shall not
5691constitute a trespass.
5692     (2)  Such officers shall have power and authority to
5693enforce throughout the state all laws relating to game, nongame
5694birds, fish, and fur-bearing animals and all rules and
5695regulations of the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
5696relating to wild animal life, marine life, and freshwater
5697aquatic life, and in connection with said laws, rules, and
5698regulations, in the enforcement thereof and in the performance
5699of their duties thereunder, to:
5700     (a)  Go upon all premises, posted or otherwise;
5701     (b)  Execute warrants and search warrants for the violation
5702of said laws;
5703     (c)  Serve subpoenas issued for the examination,
5704investigation, and trial of all offenses against said laws;
5705     (d)  Carry firearms or other weapons, concealed or
5706otherwise, in the performance of their duties;
5707     (e)  Arrest upon probable cause without warrant any person
5708found in the act of violating any of the provisions of said laws
5709or, in pursuit immediately following such violations, to examine
5710any person, boat, conveyance, vehicle, game bag, game coat, or
5711other receptacle for wild animal life, marine life, or
5712freshwater aquatic life, or any camp, tent, cabin, or roster, in
5713the presence of any person stopping at or belonging to such
5714camp, tent, cabin, or roster, when said officer has reason to
5715believe, and has exhibited her or his authority and stated to
5716the suspected person in charge the officer's reason for
5717believing, that any of the aforesaid laws have been violated at
5718such c
5719     (f)  Secure and execute search warrants and in pursuance
5720thereof to enter any building, enclosure, or car and to break
5721open, when found necessary, any apartment, chest, locker, box,
5722trunk, crate, basket, bag, package, or container and examine the
5723contents thereof;
5724     (g)  Seize and take possession of all wild animal life,
5725marine life, or freshwater aquatic life taken or in possession
5726or under control of, or shipped or about to be shipped by, any
5727person at any time in any manner contrary to said laws.
5728     (3)  It is unlawful for any person to resist an arrest
5729authorized by this section or in any manner to interfere, either
5730by abetting, assisting such resistance, or otherwise interfering
5731with said executive director, assistants, or wildlife officers
5732while engaged in the performance of the duties imposed upon them
5733by law or regulation of the Fish and Wildlife Conservation
5734Commission.
5735     (4)  Upon final disposition of any alleged offense for
5736which a citation for any violation of this chapter or the rules
5737of the commission has been issued, the court shall, within 10
5738days after the final disposition of the action, certify the
5739disposition to the commission.
5740     Section 115.  Section 372.071, Florida Statutes, is
5741renumbered as section 379.3312, Florida Statutes, and amended to
5742read:
5743     379.3312 372.071  Powers of arrest by agents of Department
5744of Environmental Protection or Fish and Wildlife Conservation
5745Commission.--Any certified law enforcement officer of the
5746Department of Environmental Protection or the Fish and Wildlife
5747Conservation Commission, upon receiving information, relayed to
5748her or him from any law enforcement officer stationed on the
5749ground, on the water, or in the air, that a driver, operator, or
5750occupant of any vehicle, boat, or airboat has violated any
5751section of chapter 327, chapter 328, chapter 370, or this
5752chapter, or s. 597.010 or s. 597.020, may arrest the driver,
5753operator, or occupant for violation of said laws when reasonable
5754and proper identification of the vehicle, boat, or airboat and
5755reasonable and probable grounds to believe that the driver,
5756operator, or occupant has committed or is committing any such
5757offense have been communicated to the arresting officer by the
5758other officer stationed on the ground, on the water, or in the
5759air.
5760     Section 116.  Subsection(8) of section 370.021, Florida
5761Statutes, is renumbered as section 379.3313, Florida Statutes,
5762and amended to read:
5763     379.3313  Powers of commission law enforcement officers.--
5764     (8)  POWERS OF OFFICERS.--
5765     (1)(a)  Law enforcement officers of the commission are
5766constituted law enforcement officers of this state with full
5767power to investigate and arrest for any violation of the laws of
5768this state and the rules of the commission under their
5769jurisdiction. The general laws applicable to arrests by peace
5770officers of this state shall also be applicable to law
5771enforcement officers of the commission. Such law enforcement
5772officers may enter upon any land or waters of the state for
5773performance of their lawful duties and may take with them any
5774necessary equipment, and such entry will not constitute a
5775trespass. It is lawful for any boat, motor vehicle, or aircraft
5776owned or chartered by the commission or its agents or employees
5777to land on and depart from any of the beaches or waters of the
5778state. Such law enforcement officers have the authority, without
5779warrant, to board, inspect, and search any boat, fishing
5780appliance, storage or processing plant, fishhouse, spongehouse,
5781oysterhouse, or other warehouse, building, or vehicle engaged in
5782transporting or storing any fish or fishery products. Such
5783authority to search and inspect without a search warrant is
5784limited to those cases in which such law enforcement officers
5785have reason to believe that fish or any saltwater products are
5786taken or kept for sale, barter, transportation, or other
5787purposes in violation of laws or rules promulgated under this
5788law. Any such law enforcement officer may at any time seize or
5789take possession of any saltwater products or contraband which
5790have been unlawfully caught, taken, or processed or which are
5791unlawfully possessed or transported in violation of any of the
5792laws of this state or any rule of the commission. Such law
5793enforcement officers may arrest any person in the act of
5794violating any of the provisions of this law, the rules of the
5795commission, or any of the laws of this state. It is hereby
5796declared unlawful for any person to resist such arrest or in any
5797manner interfere, either by abetting or assisting such
5798resistance or otherwise interfering, with any such law
5799enforcement officer while engaged in the performance of the
5800duties imposed upon him or her by law or rule of the commission.
5801     (2)(b)  The Legislature finds that the checking and
5802inspection of saltwater products aboard vessels is critical to
5803good fishery management and conservation and that, because
5804almost all saltwater products are either iced or cooled in
5805closed areas or containers, the enforcement of seasons, size
5806limits, and bag limits can only be effective when inspection of
5807saltwater products so stored is immediate and routine.
5808Therefore, in addition to the authority granted in subsection
5809(1), a law enforcement officer of the commission who has
5810probable cause to believe that the vessel has been used for
5811fishing prior to the inspection shall have full authority to
5812open and inspect all containers or areas where saltwater
5813products are normally kept aboard vessels while such vessels are
5814on the water, such as refrigerated or iced locations, coolers,
5815fish boxes, and bait wells, but specifically excluding such
5816containers that are located in sleeping or living areas of the
5817vessel.
5818     Section 117.  Section 372.70, Florida Statutes, is
5819renumbered as section 379.332, Florida Statutes, to read:
5820     379.332 372.70  Prosecutions; state attorney to represent
5821state.--
5822     (1)  The prosecuting officers of the several courts of
5823criminal jurisdiction of this state shall investigate and
5824prosecute all violations of the laws relating to game,
5825freshwater fish, nongame birds, and fur-bearing animals which
5826may be brought to their attention by the commission or its
5827conservation officers, or which may otherwise come to their
5828knowledge.
5829     (2)  The state attorney shall represent the state in any
5830forfeiture proceeding under this chapter. The Department of
5831Legal Affairs shall represent the state in all appeals from
5832judgments of forfeiture to the Supreme Court. The state may
5833appeal any judgment denying forfeiture in whole or in part that
5834may be otherwise adverse to the state.
5835     Section 118.  Section 372.701, Florida Statutes, is
5836renumbered as section 379.333, Florida Statutes, to read:
5837     379.333 372.701  Arrest by officers of the Fish and
5838Wildlife Conservation Commission; recognizance; cash bond;
5839citation.--
5840     (1)  In all cases of arrest by officers of the Fish and
5841Wildlife Conservation Commission and the Department of
5842Environmental Protection, the person arrested shall be delivered
5843forthwith by said officer to the sheriff of the county, or shall
5844obtain from such person arrested a recognizance or, if deemed
5845necessary, a cash bond or other sufficient security conditioned
5846for her or his appearance before the proper tribunal of such
5847county to answer the charge for which the person has been
5848arrested.
5849     (2)  All officers of the commission and the department are
5850hereby directed to deliver all bonds accepted and approved by
5851them to the sheriff of the county in which the offense is
5852alleged to have been committed.
5853     (3)  Any person so arrested and released on her or his own
5854recognizance by an officer and who shall fail to appear or
5855respond to the proper citation to appear, shall, in addition to
5856the charge relating to wildlife or freshwater fish, be charged
5857with that offense of failing to respond to such citation and,
5858upon conviction, be punished as for a misdemeanor. A written
5859warning to this effect shall be given at the time of arrest of
5860such person.
5861     Section 119.  Section 372.76, Florida Statutes, is
5862renumbered as section 379.334, Florida Statutes, to read:
5863     379.334 372.76  Search and seizure authorized and
5864limited.--The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and its
5865conservation officers shall have authority when they have
5866reasonable and probable cause to believe that the provisions of
5867this chapter have been violated, to board any vessel, boat, or
5868vehicle or to enter any fishhouse or warehouse or other
5869building, exclusive of residence, in which game, hides, fur-
5870bearing animals, fish, or fish nets are kept and to search for
5871and seize any such game, hides, fur-bearing animals, fish, or
5872fish nets had or held therein in violation of law. Provided,
5873however, that no search without warrant shall be made under any
5874of the provisions of this chapter, unless the officer making
5875such search has such information from a reliable source as would
5876lead a prudent and cautious person to believe that some
5877provision of this chapter is being violated.
5878     Section 120.  Section 372.761, Florida Statutes, is
5879renumbered as section 379.335, Florida Statutes, to read:
5880     379.335 372.761  Issuance of warrant for search of private
5881dwelling.--
5882     (1)  A search warrant may be issued on application by a
5883commissioned officer of the Fish and Wildlife Conservation
5884Commission to search any private dwelling occupied as such when
5885it is being used for the unlawful sale or purchase of wildlife
5886or freshwater fish being unlawfully kept therein. The term
5887"private dwelling" shall be construed to include the room or
5888rooms used and occupied, not transiently but solely as a
5889residence, in an apartment house, hotel, boardinghouse, or
5890lodginghouse. No warrant for the search of any private dwelling
5891shall be issued except upon probable cause supported by sworn
5892affidavit of some creditable witness that she or he has reason
5893to believe that the said conditions exist, which affidavit shall
5894set forth the facts on which such reason for belief is based.
5895     (2)  This section shall not be construed as being in
5896conflict with, but is supplemental to, chapter 933.
5897     Section 121.  Section 370.22, Florida Statutes, is
5898renumbered as section 379.336, Florida Statutes, to read:
5899     379.336 370.22  Venue for proceedings against citizens and
5900residents charged with violations outside state boundaries.--
5901     (1)  In any proceeding against a resident or citizen of the
5902state to enforce the provisions of this chapter with respect to
5903alleged violations occurring beyond the territorial waters of
5904the state, the proper venue shall be the county within the state
5905which is nearest the site of the violation.
5906     (2)  For the purpose of this section, any person having
5907embarked from, or having docked his or her vessel in, a port
5908within this state who violates any provision of this chapter
5909with respect to the unlawful landing of saltwater life, whether
5910or not outside the territorial waters of the state, shall be
5911considered a citizen of the state for the purpose of subjecting
5912that person to the police powers of the state.
5913     Section 122.  Section 370.061, Florida Statutes, is
5914renumbered as section 379.337, Florida Statutes, and amended to
5915read:
5916     379.337 370.061  Confiscation, seizure, and forfeiture of
5917property and products.--
5918     (1)  SEIZURE, FORFEITURE; PROCEDURE.--Nothing in this
5919subsection affects the commission's authority to confiscate in
5920any case illegal saltwater products, illegally taken saltwater
5921products, or illegal fishing gear in accordance with this
5922section.
5923     (a)  Property used in connection with a violation resulting
5924in a conviction for the illegal taking, or attempted taking,
5925sale, possession, or transportation of saltwater products is
5926subject to seizure and forfeiture as part of the commission's
5927efforts to protect the state's marine life. Saltwater products
5928and seines, nets, boats, motors, other fishing devices or
5929equipment, and vehicles or other means of transportation used or
5930attempted to be used in connection with, as an instrumentality
5931of, or in aiding and abetting such illegal taking or attempted
5932taking are hereby declared to be nuisances.
5933     (b)  Upon a conviction of a person in whose possession the
5934property was found, the court having jurisdiction over the
5935criminal offense, notwithstanding any jurisdictional limitations
5936on the amount in controversy, may make a finding that the
5937property was used in connection with a saltwater products
5938violation and may order such property forfeited to the
5939commission.
5940     (c)  For purposes of this section, a conviction, except
5941with respect to a first time offender under this chapter for
5942whom adjudication is withheld, is any disposition other than
5943acquittal or dismissal.
5944     (2)  SEIZURE, FORFEITURE; NOTICE.--The requirement for a
5945conviction before forfeiture of property establishes to the
5946exclusion of any reasonable doubt that the property was used in
5947connection with the violation resulting in conviction. Prior to
5948the issuance of a forfeiture order for any vessel, vehicle, or
5949other property under subsection (1), the commission shall seize
5950the property and notify the registered owner, if any, that the
5951property has been seized by the commission. Except as provided
5952in subsection (6), the procedures of chapter 932 do not apply to
5953any seizure or forfeiture of property under this section.
5954     (a)  Notification of property seized under this section
5955must be sent by certified mail to a registered owner within 14
5956days after seizure. If the commission, after diligent inquiry,
5957cannot ascertain the registered owner, the notice requirement is
5958satisfied.
5959     (b)  Upon a first conviction for a violation under this
5960chapter, the property seized under this section shall be
5961returned to the registered owner if the commission fails to
5962prove by a preponderance of the evidence before the court having
5963jurisdiction over the criminal offense that the registered owner
5964aided in, abetted in, participated in, gave consent to, knew of,
5965or had reason to know of the violation.
5966     (c)  Upon a second or subsequent conviction for a violation
5967under this chapter, the burden shall be on the registered owner
5968to prove by a preponderance of the evidence before the court
5969having jurisdiction over the criminal offense that the
5970registered owner in no way aided in, abetted in, participated
5971in, knew of, or had reason to know of the second or subsequent
5972violation which resulted in seizure of the lawful property.
5973     (d)  Any request for a hearing from a registered owner
5974asserting innocence to recover property seized under these
5975provisions must be sent to the commission's Division of Law
5976Enforcement within 21 days after the registered owner's receipt
5977of the notice of seizure. If a request for a hearing is not
5978timely received, the court shall forfeit to the commission the
5979right to, title to, and interest in the property seized, subject
5980only to the rights and interests of bona fide lienholders.
5981     (e)  If a motor vehicle is seized under this section and is
5982subject to any existing liens recorded under s. 319.27, all
5983further proceedings shall be governed by the expressed intent of
5984the Legislature not to divest any innocent person, firm, or
5985corporation holding such a recorded lien of any of its
5986reversionary rights in such motor vehicle or of any of its
5987rights as prescribed in s. 319.27, and upon any default by the
5988violator purchaser, the lienholder may foreclose its lien and
5989take possession of the motor vehicle involved.
5990     (3)  COURT ORDER OF FORFEITURE.--When any illegal or
5991illegally used seine, net, trap, or other fishing device or
5992equipment, or illegally taken, possessed, or transported
5993saltwater products, are found and taken into custody, and the
5994owner thereof is not known to the officer finding the item or
5995items, such officer shall immediately procure from the county
5996court judge of the county wherein the item or items were found
5997an order forfeiting the illegally used or illegally taken
5998saltwater products, seines, nets, traps, boats, motors, or other
5999fishing devices to the commission.
6000     (4)  DESTRUCTION OR DISPOSITION OF PROPERTY.--All property
6001forfeited under this section may be destroyed, used by the
6002commission, disposed of by gift to charitable or state
6003institutions, or sold, with the proceeds derived from the sale
6004deposited into the Marine Resources Conservation Trust Fund to
6005be used for law enforcement purposes, or into the commission's
6006Federal Law Enforcement Trust Fund as provided in s. 372.107, as
6007applicable.
6008     (5)  CONFISCATION AND SALE OF PERISHABLE SALTWATER
6009PRODUCTS; PROCEDURE.--
6010     (a)  When an arrest is made pursuant to the provisions of
6011this chapter and illegal, perishable saltwater products or
6012saltwater products illegally taken or landed are confiscated,
6013the defendant may post bond or cash deposit in an amount
6014determined by the judge to be the fair value of such confiscated
6015products. The defendant shall have 24 hours to transport the
6016products outside the limits of Florida for sale or other
6017disposition. Should no bond or cash deposit be given within the
6018time fixed by the judge, the judge shall order the sale of the
6019confiscated saltwater products at the highest price obtainable.
6020When feasible, at least three bids shall be requested.
6021     (b)  Moneys received from the sale of confiscated saltwater
6022products, either by the defendant or by order of the court,
6023shall be received by the judge and shall be remitted to the
6024commission to be deposited into a special escrow account in the
6025State Treasury to be held in trust pending the outcome of the
6026trial of the defendant. If bond is posted by the defendant, it
6027shall also be remitted to the commission to be held in escrow
6028pending the outcome of the trial of the defendant.
6029     (c)  In the event of acquittal, the proceeds of a sale or
6030the bond or cash deposit required by this subsection shall be
6031returned to the defendant. In the event of a conviction, the
6032proceeds of a sale or the bond or cash deposit required by this
6033subsection shall be deposited into the Marine Resources
6034Conservation Trust Fund to be used for law enforcement purposes
6035or into the commission's Federal Law Enforcement Trust Fund as
6036provided in s. 372.107, as applicable. Such deposit into the
6037Marine Resources Conservation Trust Fund or the Federal Law
6038Enforcement Trust Fund shall constitute confiscation.
6039     (d)  For purposes of confiscation under this subsection,
6040the term "saltwater products" has the meaning set out in s.
6041379.101(36) 370.01(27), except that the term does not include
6042saltwater products harvested under the authority of a
6043recreational license unless the amount of such harvested
6044products exceeds three times the applicable recreational bag
6045limit for trout, snook, or redfish.
6046     (6)  MUNICIPAL OR COUNTY ENFORCEMENT; SUPPLEMENTAL
6047FUNDING.--
6048     (a)  Any municipal or county law enforcement agency that
6049enforces or assists the commission in enforcing the provisions
6050of this chapter, which results in a forfeiture of property as
6051provided in this section, shall be entitled to receive all or a
6052share of any property based upon its participation in such
6053enforcement.
6054     (b)  If a municipal or county law enforcement agency has a
6055marine enforcement unit, any property delivered to any municipal
6056or county law enforcement agency as provided in paragraph (a)
6057may be retained or sold by the municipal or county law
6058enforcement agency, and the property or proceeds shall be used
6059to enforce the provisions of this chapter and chapters 327 and
6060328. If a municipal or county law enforcement agency does not
6061have a marine enforcement unit, such property or proceeds shall
6062be disposed of under the provisions of chapter 932.
6063     (c)  Any funds received by a municipal or county law
6064enforcement agency pursuant to this subsection shall be
6065supplemental funds and may not be used as replacement funds by
6066the municipality or county.
6067     Section 123.  Section 372.73, Florida Statutes, is
6068renumbered as section 379.338, Florida Statutes, and amended to
6069read:
6070     379.338 372.73  Confiscation and disposition of illegally
6071taken game.--All game and freshwater fish seized under the
6072authority of this chapter shall, upon conviction of the offender
6073or sooner if the court so orders, be forfeited and given to some
6074hospital or charitable institution and receipt therefor sent to
6075the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. All furs or hides
6076or fur-bearing animals seized under the authority of this
6077chapter shall, upon conviction of the offender, be forfeited and
6078sent to the commission, which shall sell the same and deposit
6079the proceeds of such sale to the credit of the State Game Trust
6080Fund or into the commission's Federal Law Enforcement Trust Fund
6081as provided in s. 372.107, as applicable. If any such hides or
6082furs are seized and the offender is unknown, the court shall
6083order such hides or furs sent to the Fish and Wildlife
6084Conservation Commission, which shall sell such hides and furs
6085and deposit the proceeds of such sale to the credit of the State
6086Game Trust Fund or into the commission's Federal Law Enforcement
6087Trust Fund as provided in s. 372.107, as applicable.
6088     Section 124.  Section 372.9901, Florida Statutes, is
6089renumbered as section 379.339, Florida Statutes, and amended to
6090read:
6091     379.339 372.9901  Seizure of illegal hunting devices;
6092disposition; notice; forfeiture.--In order to protect the
6093state's wildlife resources, any vehicle, vessel, animal, gun,
6094light, or other hunting device used or attempted to be used in
6095connection with, as an instrumentality of, or in aiding and
6096abetting in the commission of an offense prohibited by s.
6097379.404 372.99 is subject to seizure and forfeiture. The
6098provisions of chapter 932 do not apply to any seizure or
6099forfeiture under this section. For purposes of this section, a
6100conviction is any disposition other than acquittal or dismissal.
6101     (1)(a)  Upon a first conviction of the person in whose
6102possession the property was found, the court having jurisdiction
6103over the criminal offense, notwithstanding any jurisdictional
6104limitations on the amount in controversy, may make a finding
6105that the property was used in connection with a violation of s.
6106379.404 372.99. Upon such finding, the court may order the
6107property forfeited to the commission.
6108     (b)  Upon a second or subsequent conviction of a person in
6109whose possession the property was found for a violation of s.
6110379.404 372.99, the court shall order the forfeiture to the
6111commission of any property used in connection with that
6112violation.
6113     (2)  The requirement for a conviction before forfeiture
6114establishes, to the exclusion of any reasonable doubt, that the
6115property was used in connection with that violation. Prior to
6116the issuance of a forfeiture order for any vessel, vehicle, or
6117other property under subsection (1), the commission shall seize
6118the property and notify the registered owner, if any, that the
6119property has been seized by the commission.
6120     (3)  Notification of property seized under this section
6121must be sent by certified mail to a registered owner within 14
6122days after seizure. If the commission, after diligent inquiry,
6123cannot ascertain the registered owner, the notice requirement is
6124satisfied.
6125     (4)(a)  For a first conviction of an offense under s.
6126379.404 372.99, property seized by the commission shall be
6127returned to the registered owner if the commission fails to
6128prove by a preponderance of the evidence before the court having
6129jurisdiction over the criminal offense that the registered owner
6130aided in, abetted in, participated in, gave consent to, knew of,
6131or had reason to know of the offense.
6132     (b)  Upon a second or subsequent conviction for an offense
6133under s. 379.404 372.99, the burden shall be on the registered
6134owner to prove by a preponderance of the evidence before the
6135court having jurisdiction over the criminal offense that the
6136registered owner in no way aided in, abetted in, participated
6137in, knew of, or had reason to know of the second offense which
6138resulted in seizure of the lawful property.
6139     (c)  Any request for a hearing from a registered owner
6140asserting innocence to recover property seized under these
6141provisions must be sent to the commission's Division of Law
6142Enforcement within 21 days after the registered owner's receipt
6143of the notice of seizure. If a request for a hearing is not
6144timely received, the court shall forfeit to the commission the
6145right to, title to, and interest in the property seized, subject
6146only to the rights and interests of bona fide lienholders.
6147     (5)  All amounts received from the sale or other
6148disposition of the property shall be paid into the State Game
6149Trust Fund or into the commission's Federal Law Enforcement
6150Trust Fund as provided in s. 372.107, as applicable. If the
6151property is not sold or converted, it shall be delivered to the
6152executive director of the commission.
6153     Section 125.  Section 372.9904, Florida Statutes, is
6154renumbered as section 379.3395, Florida Statutes, and amended to
6155read:
6156     379.3395 372.9904  Seizure of illegal transportation
6157devices; disposition; appraisal; forfeiture.--
6158     (1)  Any vehicle, vessel, or other transportation device
6159used in the commission of the offense prohibited by s. 379.406
6160372.9903, except a vehicle, vessel, or other transportation
6161device duly registered as a common carrier and operated in
6162lawful transaction of business as such carrier, shall be seized
6163by the arresting officer, who shall promptly make return of the
6164seizure and deliver the property to the director of the Fish and
6165Wildlife Conservation Commission. The return shall describe the
6166property seized and recite in detail the facts and circumstances
6167under which it was seized, together with the reason that the
6168property was subject to seizure. The return shall also contain
6169the names of all persons known to the officer to be interested
6170in the property.
6171     (2)  The commission, upon receipt of the property, shall
6172promptly fix its value and make return thereof to the clerk of
6173the circuit court of the county wherein the article was seized;
6174after which, on proper showing of ownership of the property by
6175someone other than the person arrested, the property shall be
6176returned by the court to the said owner.
6177     (3)  Upon conviction of the violator, the property, if
6178owned by the person convicted, shall be forfeited to the state
6179under the procedure set forth in ss. 379.337 and 379.362 370.061
6180and 370.07, when not inconsistent with this section. All amounts
6181received from the sale or other disposition of the property
6182shall be paid into the State Game Trust Fund or into the
6183commission's Federal Law Enforcement Trust Fund as provided in
6184s. 372.107, as applicable. If the property is not sold or
6185converted, it shall be delivered to the director of the Fish and
6186Wildlife Conservation Commission.
6187     Section 126.  Section 372.99021, Florida Statutes, is
6188renumbered as section 379.341, Florida Statutes, to read:
6189     379.341 372.99021  Disposition of illegal fishing devices;
6190exercise of police power.--
6191     (1)  In all cases of arrest and conviction for use of
6192illegal nets or traps or fishing devices, as provided in this
6193chapter, such illegal net, trap, or fishing device is declared
6194to be a nuisance and shall be seized and carried before the
6195court having jurisdiction of such offense and said court shall
6196order such illegal trap, net, or fishing device forfeited to the
6197commission immediately after trial and conviction of the person
6198in whose possession they were found. When any illegal net, trap,
6199or fishing device is found in the fresh waters of the state, and
6200the owner of same shall not be known to the officer finding the
6201same, such officer shall immediately procure from the county
6202court judge an order forfeiting said illegal net, trap, or
6203fishing device to the commission. The commission may destroy
6204such illegal net, trap, or fishing device, if in its judgment
6205said net, trap, or fishing device is not of value in the work of
6206the department.
6207     (2)  When any nets, traps, or fishing devices are found
6208being used illegally as provided in this chapter, the same shall
6209be seized and forfeited to the commission as provided in this
6210chapter.
6211     (3)  This section is necessary for the more efficient and
6212proper enforcement of the statutes and laws of this state
6213prohibiting the illegal use of nets, traps, or fishing devices
6214and is a lawful exercise of the police power of the state for
6215the protection of the public welfare, health, and safety of the
6216people of the state. All the provisions of this section shall be
6217liberally construed for the accomplishment of these purposes.
6218     Section 127.  Section 372.9905, Florida Statutes, is
6219renumbered as section 379.342, Florida Statutes, and amended to
6220read:
6221     379.342 372.9905  Applicability of ss. 379.339, 379.340,
6222379.404, and 379.406 372.99, 372.9901, 372.9903, and
6223372.9904.--The provisions of ss. 379.339, 379.340, 379.404, and
6224379.406 372.99, 372.9901, 372.9903, and 372.9904 relating to
6225seizure and forfeiture of animals or of vehicles, vessels, or
6226other transportation devices do not vitiate any valid lien,
6227retain title contract, or chattel mortgage on such animals or
6228vehicles, vessels, or other transportation devices if such lien,
6229retain title contract, or chattel mortgage is properly of public
6230record at the time of the seizure.
6231     Section 128.  Section 372.0715, Florida Statutes, is
6232renumbered as section 379.343, Florida Statutes, to read:
6233     379.343 372.0715  Rewards.--The Fish and Wildlife
6234Conservation Commission is authorized to offer rewards in
6235amounts of up to $500 to any person furnishing information
6236leading to the arrest and conviction of any person who has
6237inflicted or attempted to inflict bodily injury upon any
6238wildlife officer engaged in the enforcement of the provisions of
6239this chapter or the rules and regulations of the Fish and
6240Wildlife Conservation Commission.
6241     Section 129.  Part VI of chapter 379, Florida Statutes,
6242consisting of sections 379.350, 379.3501, 379.3502, 379.3503,
6243379.3504, 379.3511, 379.3512, 379.352, 379.353, 379.354,
6244379.355, 379.356, 379.357, 379.3581, 379.3582, and 379.3582, is
6245created to read:
6246
PART VI
6247
LICENSES FOR RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES
6248
6249     Section 130.  Section 372.5711, Florida Statutes, is
6250renumbered as section 379.35, Florida Statutes, to read:
6251     379.35 372.5711  Review of fees for licenses and permits;
6252review of exemptions.--The fees for licenses and permits
6253established under this chapter, and exemptions thereto, shall be
6254reviewed by the Legislature during its regular session every 5
6255years beginning in 2000.
6256     Section 131.  Section 372.571, Florida Statutes, is
6257renumbered as section 379.3501, Florida Statutes, and amended to
6258read:
6259     379.3501 372.571  Expiration of licenses and permits.--Each
6260license or permit issued under this part chapter must be dated
6261when issued. Each license or permit issued under this part
6262chapter remains valid for 12 months after the date of issuance,
6263except for a lifetime license issued pursuant to s. 379.354
6264372.57 which is valid from the date of issuance until the death
6265of the individual to whom the license is issued unless otherwise
6266revoked in accordance with s. 379.401 372.83 or s. 379.404
6267372.99, or a 5-year license issued pursuant to s. 379.354 372.57
6268which is valid for 5 consecutive years from the date of purchase
6269unless otherwise revoked in accordance with s. 379.401 372.83 or
6270s. 379.404 372.99, or a license issued pursuant to s.
6271379.354(5)(a), (b), (c), (d), or (g) or (8)(f), (g)2., or (h)1.
6272372.57(5)(a), (b), (c), (d), or (g) or (8)(f), (g)2., or (h)1.,
6273which is valid for the period specified on the license. A
6274resident lifetime license or a resident 5-year license that has
6275been purchased by a resident of this state and who subsequently
6276resides in another state shall be honored for activities
6277authorized by that license.
6278     Section 132.  Section 372.59, Florida Statutes, is
6279renumbered as section 379.3502, Florida Statutes, and amended to
6280read:
6281     379.3502 372.59  License and permit not transferable.--A
6282person may not alter or change in any manner, or loan or
6283transfer to another, unless otherwise provided, any license or
6284permit issued pursuant to the provisions of this chapter, nor
6285may any other person, other than the person to whom it is
6286issued, use the same.
6287     Section 133.  Section 372.58, Florida Statutes, is
6288renumbered as section 379.3503, Florida Statutes, and amended to
6289read:
6290     379.3503 372.58  False statement in application for license
6291or permit.--Any person who swears or affirms to any false
6292statement in any application for license or permit provided by
6293this chapter, is guilty of violating this chapter, and shall be
6294subject to the penalty provided in s. 379.401 372.83, and any
6295false statement contained in any application for such license or
6296permit renders the license or permit void.
6297     Section 134.  Section 372.581, Florida Statutes, is
6298renumbered as section 379.3504, Florida Statutes, and amended to
6299read:
6300     379.3504 372.581  Entering false information on licenses or
6301permits.--Whoever knowingly and willfully enters false
6302information on, or allows or causes false information to be
6303entered on or shown upon any license or permit issued under the
6304provisions of this chapter in order to avoid prosecution or to
6305assist another to avoid prosecution, or for any other wrongful
6306purpose shall be punished as provided in s. 379.401 372.83.
6307     Section 135.  Section 372.574, Florida Statutes, is
6308renumbered as section 379.3511, Florida Statutes, and amended to
6309read:
6310     379.3511 372.574  Appointment of subagents for the sale of
6311hunting, fishing, and trapping licenses and permits.--
6312     (1)  Subagents shall serve at the pleasure of the
6313commission. The commission may establish, by rule, procedures
6314for the selection and appointment of subagents. The following
6315are requirements for subagents so appointed:
6316     (a)  The commission may require each subagent to post an
6317appropriate bond as determined by the commission, using an
6318insurance company acceptable to the commission. In lieu of the
6319bond, the commission may purchase blanket bonds covering all or
6320selected subagents or may allow a subagent to post other
6321security as required by the commission.
6322     (b)  A subagent may sell licenses and permits as authorized
6323by the commission at specific locations within the county and in
6324states as will best serve the public interest and convenience in
6325obtaining licenses and permits. The commission may prohibit
6326subagents from selling certain licenses or permits.
6327     (c)  It is unlawful for any person to handle licenses or
6328permits for a fee or compensation of any kind unless he or she
6329has been appointed as a subagent.
6330     (d)  Any person who willfully violates any of the
6331provisions of this section commits a misdemeanor of the second
6332degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083.
6333     (e)  A subagent may charge and receive as his or her
6334compensation 50 cents for each license or permit sold. This
6335charge is in addition to the sum required by law to be collected
6336for the sale and issuance of each license or permit.
6337     (f)  A subagent shall submit payment for and report the
6338sale of licenses and permits to the commission as prescribed by
6339the commission.
6340     (2)  The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission or any
6341other law enforcement agency may carry out any investigation
6342necessary to secure information required to carry out and
6343enforce this section.
6344     (3)  All social security numbers that are provided pursuant
6345to ss. 379.352 and 379.354 372.561 and 372.57 and are contained
6346in records of any subagent appointed under this section are
6347confidential as provided in those sections.
6348     Section 136.  Section 372.551, Florida Statutes, is
6349renumbered as section 379.3512, Florida Statutes, to read:
6350     379.3512 372.551  Competitive bidding for certain sale of
6351licenses and permits and the issuance of authorization
6352numbers.--The commission is authorized to establish the
6353following, using competitive bidding procedures:
6354     (1)  A process and a vendor fee for the sale of licenses
6355and permits, and the issuance of authorization numbers, over the
6356telephone.
6357     (2)  A process and a vendor fee for the electronic sale of
6358licenses and permits and for the electronic issuance of
6359authorization numbers.
6360     Section 137.  Section 372.561, Florida Statutes, is
6361renumbered as section 379.352, Florida Statutes, and amended to
6362read:
6363     379.352 372.561  Recreational licenses, permits, and
6364authorization numbers to take wild animal life, freshwater
6365aquatic life, and marine life; issuance; costs; reporting.--
6366     (1)  This section applies to all recreational licenses and
6367permits and to any authorization numbers issued by the
6368commission for the use of such recreational licenses or permits.
6369     (2)  The commission shall establish forms for the issuance
6370of recreational licenses and permits.
6371     (3)  The commission shall issue a license, permit, or
6372authorization number to take wild animal life, freshwater
6373aquatic life, or marine life when an applicant provides proof
6374that she or he is entitled to such license, permit, or
6375authorization number. Each applicant for a recreational license,
6376permit, or authorization number shall provide her or his social
6377security number on the application form. Disclosure of social
6378security numbers obtained through this requirement shall be
6379limited to the purposes of administration of the Title IV-D
6380program for child support enforcement, use by the commission,
6381and as otherwise provided by law.
6382     (4)  Licenses and permits to take wild animal life,
6383freshwater aquatic life, or marine life may be sold by the
6384commission, by any tax collector in the state, or by any
6385subagent authorized under s. 379.3511 372.574.
6386     (5)  In addition to any license or permit fee, the sum of
6387$1.50 shall be charged for each license or management area
6388permit, except for replacement licenses, to cover the cost of
6389issuing such license or permit.
6390     (6)(a)  The fee established pursuant to subsection (5)
6391shall be distributed as follows:
6392     1.  For each hunting license and freshwater fishing license
6393sold by a tax collector, including the combination freshwater
6394fishing and hunting license, the sportsman's license, and the
6395gold sportsman's license, a tax collector may retain $1.00.
6396     2.  For each management area permit sold by a tax
6397collector, a tax collector may retain $1.00.
6398     3.  For each saltwater fishing tag and saltwater fishing
6399license sold by a tax collector, including the combination
6400saltwater fishing and freshwater fishing license and the
6401combination saltwater fishing, freshwater fishing, and hunting
6402license, a tax collector may retain $1.50.
6403     4.  For licenses and management area permits sold by
6404subagents, a tax collector may retain 50 cents for each license
6405sold in the tax collector's county.
6406     5.  Any and all remaining fees shall be deposited in the
6407State Game Trust Fund and shall be used to support an automated
6408license system and administration of the license program.
6409     (b)  Tax collectors shall remit license and permit revenue
6410to the commission weekly.
6411     (7)(a)  The sum of $10 shall be charged for each
6412replacement lifetime license and $2 for all other replacement
6413licenses and permits. A tax collector may retain $1.00 for each
6414replacement license.
6415     (b)  Fees collected from the issuance of replacement
6416licenses shall be deposited in the State Game Trust Fund.
6417     (8)  At each location where hunting, fishing, or trapping
6418licenses or permits are sold, voter registration applications
6419shall be displayed and made available to the public. Subagents
6420shall ask each person who applies for a hunting, fishing, or
6421trapping license or permit if he or she would like a voter
6422registration application and may provide such application to the
6423license or permit applicant but shall not assist such persons
6424with voter registration applications or collect complete or
6425incomplete voter registration applications.
6426     (9)  Except as provided in subsections (8) and (12), each
6427person who applies for a hunting, fishing, or trapping license
6428or permit shall be asked if he or she would like the appropriate
6429supervisor of elections to provide a voter registration
6430application to the applicant at a later date. If at the time a
6431license is purchased the applicant indicates that he or she
6432would like to receive a voter registration application, the
6433commission shall, within 7 days, make the request available to
6434the appropriate supervisor of elections or voter registration
6435agency so that an application may be sent to the applicant.
6436Supervisors of elections shall mail an application to each
6437person requesting such application within 5 business days after
6438receipt of the request.
6439     (10)  The commission may satisfy the requirements of
6440subsection (9) by providing access to an Internet site with the
6441voter registration information included thereon.
6442     (11)  When acting in its official capacity pursuant to this
6443section, neither the commission nor a subagent is deemed a
6444third-party registration organization, as defined in s.
644597.021(36), or a voter registration agency, as defined in s.
644697.021(40), and is not authorized to solicit, accept, or collect
6447voter registration applications or provide voter registration
6448services.
6449     (12)  Each person who applies for a hunting, fishing, or
6450trapping license or permit on the Internet shall be provided a
6451link to the Department of State's online uniform statewide voter
6452registration application.
6453     (13)  The commission, any tax collector in this state, or
6454any subagent authorized to sell licenses and permits under s.
6455379.3511 372.574 may request and collect donations when selling
6456a recreational license or permit authorized under s. 379.354
6457372.57. All donations collected under this subsection shall be
6458deposited into the State Game Trust Fund to be used solely for
6459the purpose of enhancing youth hunting and youth freshwater and
6460saltwater fishing programs. By January 1, the commission shall
6461provide a complete and detailed annual report on the status of
6462its youth programs and activities performed under this
6463subsection to the Governor, the President of the Senate, and the
6464Speaker of the House of Representatives.
6465     (14)  The commission is authorized to adopt rules pursuant
6466to ss. 120.536(1) and 120.54 to implement the provisions of this
6467section.
6468     Section 138.  Section 372.562, Florida Statutes, is
6469renumbered as section 379.353, Florida Statutes, and amended to
6470read:
6471     379.353 372.562  Recreational licenses and permits;
6472exemptions from fees and requirements.--
6473     (1)  Hunting, freshwater fishing, and saltwater fishing
6474licenses and permits shall be issued without fee to any resident
6475who is certified or determined:
6476     (a)  To be totally and permanently disabled for purposes of
6477workers' compensation under chapter 440 as verified by an order
6478of a judge of compensation claims or written confirmation by the
6479carrier providing workers' compensation benefits, or to be
6480totally and permanently disabled by the Railroad Retirement
6481Board, by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs or
6482its predecessor, or by any branch of the United States Armed
6483Forces, or who holds a valid identification card issued under
6484the provisions of s. 295.17, upon proof of same. Any license
6485issued under this paragraph after January 1, 1997, expires after
64865 years and must be reissued, upon request, every 5 years
6487thereafter.
6488     (b)  To be disabled by the United States Social Security
6489Administration, upon proof of same. Any license issued under
6490this paragraph after October 1, 1999, expires after 2 years and
6491must be reissued, upon proof of certification of disability,
6492every 2 years thereafter.
6493
6494A disability license issued after July 1, 1997, and before July
64951, 2000, retains the rights vested thereunder until the license
6496has expired.
6497     (2)  A hunting, freshwater fishing, or saltwater fishing
6498license or permit is not required for:
6499     (a)  Any child under 16 years of age, except as otherwise
6500provided in this part chapter.
6501     (b)  Any person hunting or freshwater fishing on her or his
6502homestead property, or on the homestead property of the person's
6503spouse or minor child; or any minor child hunting or freshwater
6504fishing on the homestead property of her or his parent.
6505     (c)  Any resident who is a member of the United States
6506Armed Forces and not stationed in this state, when home on leave
6507for 30 days or less, upon submission of orders.
6508     (d)  Any resident freshwater fishing for recreational
6509purposes only, within her or his county of residence with live
6510or natural bait, using poles or lines not equipped with a
6511fishing line retrieval mechanism. This exemption does not apply
6512to residents fishing in a legally established fish management
6513area.
6514     (e)  Any person freshwater fishing in a fish pond of 20
6515acres or less that is located entirely within the private
6516property of the fish pond owner.
6517     (f)  Any person freshwater fishing in a fish pond that is
6518licensed in accordance with s. 379.356 372.5705.
6519     (g)  Any person fishing who has been accepted as a client
6520for developmental disabilities services by the Department of
6521Children and Family Services, provided the department furnishes
6522proof thereof.
6523     (h)  Any resident saltwater fishing from land or from a
6524structure fixed to the land.
6525     (i)  Any person saltwater fishing from a vessel licensed
6526pursuant to s. 379.354(7) 372.57(7).
6527     (j)  Any person saltwater fishing from a vessel the
6528operator of which is licensed pursuant to s. 379.354(7)
6529372.57(7).
6530     (k)  Any person saltwater fishing who holds a valid
6531saltwater products license issued under s. 379.361(2) 370.06(2).
6532     (l)  Any person saltwater fishing for recreational purposes
6533from a pier licensed under s. 379.354 372.57.
6534     (m)  Any resident fishing for a saltwater species in fresh
6535water from land or from a structure fixed to land.
6536     (n)  Any resident fishing for mullet in fresh water who has
6537a valid Florida freshwater fishing license.
6538     (o)  Any resident 65 years of age or older who has in her
6539or his possession proof of age and residency. A no-cost license
6540under this paragraph may be obtained from any tax collector's
6541office upon proof of age and residency and must be in the
6542possession of the resident during hunting, freshwater fishing,
6543and saltwater fishing activities.
6544     (p)  Any employee of the commission who takes freshwater
6545fish, saltwater fish, or game as part of employment with the
6546commission, or any other person authorized by commission permit
6547to take freshwater fish, saltwater fish, or game for scientific
6548or educational purposes.
6549     (q)  Any resident recreationally freshwater fishing who
6550holds a valid commercial fishing license issued under s.
6551379.3625(1)(a) 372.65(1)(a).
6552     Section 139.  Section 372.57, Florida Statutes, is
6553renumbered as section 379.354, Florida Statutes, and amended to
6554read:
6555     379.354 372.57  Recreational licenses, permits, and
6556authorization numbers; fees established.--
6557     (1)  LICENSE, PERMIT, OR AUTHORIZATION NUMBER
6558REQUIRED.--Except as provided in s. 379.353 372.562, no person
6559shall take game, freshwater or saltwater fish, or fur-bearing
6560animals within this state without having first obtained a
6561license, permit, or authorization number and paid the fees set
6562forth in this chapter. Such license, permit, or authorization
6563number shall authorize the person to whom it is issued to take
6564game, freshwater or saltwater fish, or fur-bearing animals, and
6565participate in outdoor recreational activities in accordance
6566with the laws of the state and rules of the commission.
6567     (2)  NONTRANSFERABILITY; INFORMATION AND DOCUMENTATION.--
6568     (a)  Licenses, permits, and authorization numbers issued
6569under this part chapter are not transferable. Each license and
6570permit must bear on its face in indelible ink the name of the
6571person to whom it is issued and other information as deemed
6572necessary by the commission. Licenses issued to the owner,
6573operator, or custodian of a vessel that directly or indirectly
6574collects fees for taking or attempting to take or possess
6575saltwater fish for noncommercial purposes must include the
6576vessel registration number or federal documentation number.
6577     (b)  The lifetime licenses and 5-year licenses authorized
6578in this section shall be embossed with the name, date of birth,
6579date of issuance, and other pertinent information as deemed
6580necessary by the commission. A certified copy of the applicant's
6581birth certificate shall accompany each application for a
6582lifetime license for a resident 12 years of age or younger.
6583     (c)  A positive form of identification is required when
6584using a free license, a lifetime license, a 5-year license, or
6585an authorization number issued under this chapter, or when
6586otherwise required by a license or permit.
6587     (3)  PERSONAL POSSESSION REQUIRED.--Each license, permit,
6588or authorization number must be in the personal possession of
6589the person to whom it is issued while such person is taking,
6590attempting to take, or possessing game, freshwater or saltwater
6591fish, or fur-bearing animals. Any person taking, attempting to
6592take, or possessing game, freshwater or saltwater fish, or fur-
6593bearing animals who fails to produce a license, permit, or
6594authorization number at the request of a commission law
6595enforcement officer commits a violation of the law.
6596     (4)  RESIDENT HUNTING AND FISHING LICENSES.--The licenses
6597and fees for residents participating in hunting and fishing
6598activities in this state are as follows:
6599     (a)  Annual freshwater fishing license, $15.50.
6600     (b)  Annual saltwater fishing license, $15.50.
6601     (c)  Annual hunting license to take game, $15.50.
6602     (d)  Annual combination hunting and freshwater fishing
6603license, $31.
6604     (e)  Annual combination freshwater fishing and saltwater
6605fishing license, $31.
6606     (f)  Annual combination hunting, freshwater fishing, and
6607saltwater fishing license, $46.50.
6608     (g)  Annual license to take fur-bearing animals, $25.
6609However, a resident with a valid hunting license or a no-cost
6610license who is taking fur-bearing animals for noncommercial
6611purposes using guns or dogs only, and not traps or other
6612devices, is not required to purchase this license. Also, a
6613resident 65 years of age or older is not required to purchase
6614this license.
6615     (h)  Annual sportsman's license, $79, except that an annual
6616sportsman's license for a resident 64 years of age or older is
6617$12. A sportsman's license authorizes the person to whom it is
6618issued to take game and freshwater fish, subject to the state
6619and federal laws, rules, and regulations, including rules of the
6620commission, in effect at the time of the taking. Other
6621authorized activities include activities authorized by a
6622management area permit, a muzzle-loading gun season permit, a
6623crossbow season permit, a turkey permit, a Florida waterfowl
6624permit, and an archery season permit.
6625     (i)  Annual gold sportsman's license, $98.50. The gold
6626sportsman's license authorizes the person to whom it is issued
6627to take freshwater fish, saltwater fish, and game, subject to
6628the state and federal laws, rules, and regulations, including
6629rules of the commission, in effect at the time of taking. Other
6630authorized activities include activities authorized by a
6631management area permit, a muzzle-loading gun season permit, a
6632crossbow season permit, a turkey permit, a Florida waterfowl
6633permit, an archery season permit, a snook permit, and a spiny
6634lobster permit.
6635     (j)  Annual military gold sportsman's license, $18.50. The
6636gold sportsman's license authorizes the person to whom it is
6637issued to take freshwater fish, saltwater fish, and game,
6638subject to the state and federal laws, rules, and regulations,
6639including rules of the commission, in effect at the time of
6640taking. Other authorized activities include activities
6641authorized by a management area permit, a muzzle-loading gun
6642season permit, a crossbow season permit, a turkey permit, a
6643Florida waterfowl permit, an archery season permit, a snook
6644permit, and a spiny lobster permit. Any resident who is an
6645active or retired member of the United States Armed Forces, the
6646United States Armed Forces Reserve, the National Guard, the
6647United States Coast Guard, or the United States Coast Guard
6648Reserve is eligible to purchase the military gold sportsman's
6649license upon submission of a current military identification
6650card.
6651     (5)  NONRESIDENT HUNTING AND FISHING LICENSES.--The
6652licenses and fees for nonresidents participating in hunting and
6653fishing activities in the state are as follows:
6654     (a)  Freshwater fishing license to take freshwater fish for
66553 consecutive days, $15.50.
6656     (b)  Freshwater fishing license to take freshwater fish for
66577 consecutive days, $28.50.
6658     (c)  Saltwater fishing license to take saltwater fish for 3
6659consecutive days, $15.50.
6660     (d)  Saltwater fishing license to take saltwater fish for 7
6661consecutive days, $28.50.
6662     (e)  Annual freshwater fishing license, $45.50.
6663     (f)  Annual saltwater fishing license, $45.50.
6664     (g)  Hunting license to take game for 10 consecutive days,
6665$45.
6666     (h)  Annual hunting license to take game, $150.
6667     (i)  Annual license to take fur-bearing animals, $25.
6668However, a nonresident with a valid Florida hunting license who
6669is taking fur-bearing animals for noncommercial purposes using
6670guns or dogs only, and not traps or other devices, is not
6671required to purchase this license.
6672     (6)  PIER LICENSE.--A pier license for any pier fixed to
6673land for the purpose of taking or attempting to take saltwater
6674fish is $500 per year. The pier license may be purchased at the
6675option of the owner, operator, or custodian of such pier and
6676must be available for inspection at all times.
6677     (7)  VESSEL LICENSES.--
6678     (a)  No person may operate any vessel wherein a fee is
6679paid, either directly or indirectly, for the purpose of taking,
6680attempting to take, or possessing any saltwater fish for
6681noncommercial purposes unless she or he has obtained a license
6682for each vessel for that purpose, and has paid the license fee
6683pursuant to paragraphs (b) and (c) for such vessel.
6684     (b)  A license for any person who operates any vessel
6685licensed to carry more than 10 customers, wherein a fee is paid,
6686either directly or indirectly, for the purpose of taking or
6687attempting to take saltwater fish, is $800 per year. The license
6688must be kept aboard the vessel at all times.
6689     (c)1.  A license for any person who operates any vessel
6690licensed to carry no more than 10 customers, or for any person
6691licensed to operate any vessel carrying 6 or fewer customers,
6692wherein a fee is paid, either directly or indirectly, for the
6693purpose of taking or attempting to take saltwater fish, is $400
6694per year.
6695     2.  A license for any person licensed to operate any vessel
6696carrying 6 or fewer customers but who operates a vessel carrying
66974 or fewer customers, wherein a fee is paid, either directly or
6698indirectly, for the purpose of taking or attempting to take
6699saltwater fish, is $200 per year. The license must be kept
6700aboard the vessel at all times.
6701     3.  A person who operates a vessel required to be licensed
6702pursuant to paragraph (b) or this paragraph may obtain a license
6703in her or his own name, and such license shall be transferable
6704and apply to any vessel operated by the purchaser, provided that
6705the purchaser has paid the appropriate license fee.
6706     (d)  A license for a recreational vessel not for hire and
6707for which no fee is paid, either directly or indirectly, by
6708guests for the purpose of taking or attempting to take saltwater
6709fish noncommercially is $2,000 per year. The license may be
6710purchased at the option of the vessel owner and must be kept
6711aboard the vessel at all times. A log of species taken and the
6712date the species were taken shall be maintained and a copy of
6713the log filed with the commission at the time of renewal of the
6714license.
6715     (e)  The owner, operator, or custodian of a vessel the
6716operator of which has been licensed pursuant to paragraph (a)
6717must maintain and report such statistical data as required by,
6718and in a manner set forth in, the rules of the commission.
6719     (8)  SPECIFIED HUNTING, FISHING, AND RECREATIONAL ACTIVITY
6720PERMITS.--In addition to any license required under this
6721chapter, the following permits and fees for specified hunting,
6722fishing, and recreational uses and activities are required:
6723     (a)  An annual Florida waterfowl permit for a resident or
6724nonresident to take wild ducks or geese within the state or its
6725coastal waters is $3.
6726     (b)1.  An annual Florida turkey permit for a resident to
6727take wild turkeys within the state is $5.
6728     2.  An annual Florida turkey permit for a nonresident to
6729take wild turkeys within the state is $100.
6730     (c)  An annual snook permit for a resident or nonresident
6731to take or possess any snook from any waters of the state is $2.
6732Revenue generated from the sale of snook permits shall be used
6733exclusively for programs to benefit the snook population.
6734     (d)  An annual spiny lobster permit for a resident or
6735nonresident to take or possess any spiny lobster for
6736recreational purposes from any waters of the state is $2.
6737Revenue generated from the sale of spiny lobster permits shall
6738be used exclusively for programs to benefit the spiny lobster
6739population.
6740     (e)  A $5 fee is imposed for each of the following permits:
6741     1.  An annual archery season permit for a resident or
6742nonresident to hunt within the state during any archery season
6743authorized by the commission.
6744     2.  An annual crossbow season permit for a resident or
6745nonresident to hunt within the state during any crossbow season
6746authorized by the commission.
6747     3.  An annual muzzle-loading gun season permit for a
6748resident or nonresident to hunt within the state during any
6749muzzle-loading gun season authorized by the commission.
6750     (f)  A special use permit for a resident or nonresident to
6751participate in limited entry hunting or fishing activities as
6752authorized by commission rule shall not exceed $100 per day or
6753$250 per week. Notwithstanding any other provision of this
6754chapter, there are no exclusions, exceptions, or exemptions from
6755this permit fee. In addition to the permit fee, the commission
6756may charge each special use permit applicant a nonrefundable
6757application fee not to exceed $10.
6758     (g)1.  A management area permit for a resident or
6759nonresident to hunt on, fish on, or otherwise use for outdoor
6760recreational purposes land owned, leased, or managed by the
6761commission, or by the state for the use and benefit of the
6762commission, shall not exceed $25 per year.
6763     2.  Permit fees for short-term use of land that is owned,
6764leased, or managed by the commission may be established by rule
6765of the commission for activities on such lands. Such permits may
6766be in lieu of, or in addition to, the annual management area
6767permit authorized in subparagraph 1.
6768     3.  Other than for hunting or fishing, the provisions of
6769this paragraph shall not apply on any lands not owned by the
6770commission, unless the commission has obtained the written
6771consent of the owner or primary custodian of such lands.
6772     (h)1.  A recreational user permit is required to hunt on,
6773fish on, or otherwise use for outdoor recreational purposes land
6774leased by the commission from private nongovernmental owners,
6775except for those lands located directly north of the
6776Apalachicola National Forest, east of the Ochlocknee River until
6777the point the river meets the dam forming Lake Talquin, and
6778south of the closest federal highway. The fee for a recreational
6779user permit shall be based upon the economic compensation
6780desired by the landowner, game population levels, desired hunter
6781density, and administrative costs. The permit fee shall be set
6782by commission rule on a per-acre basis. The recreational user
6783permit fee, less administrative costs of up to $25 per permit,
6784shall be remitted to the landowner as provided in the lease
6785agreement for each area.
6786     2.  One minor dependent under 16 years of age may hunt
6787under the supervision of the permittee and is exempt from the
6788recreational user permit requirements. The spouse and dependent
6789children of a permittee are exempt from the recreational user
6790permit requirements when engaged in outdoor recreational
6791activities other than hunting and when accompanied by a
6792permittee. Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter,
6793no other exclusions, exceptions, or exemptions from the
6794recreational user permit fee are authorized.
6795     (9)  RESIDENT 5-YEAR HUNTING AND FISHING LICENSES.--
6796     (a)  Five-year licenses are available for residents only,
6797as follows:
6798     1.  A 5-year freshwater fishing or saltwater fishing
6799license is $77.50 for each type of license and authorizes the
6800person to whom the license is issued to take or attempt to take
6801or possess freshwater fish or saltwater fish consistent with the
6802state and federal laws and regulations and rules of the
6803commission in effect at the time of taking.
6804     2.  A 5-year hunting license is $77.50 and authorizes the
6805person to whom it is issued to take or attempt to take or
6806possess game consistent with the state and federal laws and
6807regulations and rules of the commission in effect at the time of
6808taking.
6809     3.  The commission is authorized to sell the hunting,
6810fishing, and recreational activity permits authorized in
6811subsection (8) for a 5-year period to match the purchase of 5-
6812year fishing and hunting licenses. The fee for each permit
6813issued under this paragraph shall be five times the annual cost
6814established in subsection (8).
6815     (b)  Proceeds from the sale of all 5-year licenses and
6816permits shall be deposited into the Dedicated License Trust
6817Fund, to be distributed in accordance with the provisions of s.
6818379.203 372.106.
6819     (10)  RESIDENT LIFETIME FRESHWATER OR SALTWATER FISHING
6820LICENSES.--
6821     (a)  Lifetime freshwater fishing licenses or saltwater
6822fishing licenses are available for residents only, as follows,
6823for:
6824     1.  Persons 4 years of age or younger, for a fee of $125.
6825     2.  Persons 5 years of age or older, but under 13 years of
6826age, for a fee of $225.
6827     3.  Persons 13 years of age or older, for a fee of $300.
6828     (b)  The following activities are authorized by the
6829purchase of a lifetime freshwater fishing license:
6830     1.  Taking, or attempting to take or possess, freshwater
6831fish consistent with the state and federal laws and regulations
6832and rules of the commission in effect at the time of the taking.
6833     2.  All activities authorized by a management area permit,
6834excluding hunting.
6835     (c)  The following activities are authorized by the
6836purchase of a lifetime saltwater fishing license:
6837     1.  Taking, or attempting to take or possess, saltwater
6838fish consistent with the state and federal laws and regulations
6839and rules of the commission in effect at the time of the taking.
6840     2.  All activities authorized by a snook permit and a spiny
6841lobster permit.
6842     3.  All activities for which an additional license, permit,
6843or fee is required to take or attempt to take or possess
6844saltwater fish, which additional license, permit, or fee was
6845imposed subsequent to the date of the purchase of the lifetime
6846saltwater fishing license.
6847     (11)  RESIDENT LIFETIME HUNTING LICENSES.--
6848     (a)  Lifetime hunting licenses are available to residents
6849only, as follows, for:
6850     1.  Persons 4 years of age or younger, for a fee of $200.
6851     2.  Persons 5 years of age or older, but under 13 years of
6852age, for a fee of $350.
6853     3.  Persons 13 years of age or older, for a fee of $500.
6854     (b)  The following activities are authorized by the
6855purchase of a lifetime hunting license:
6856     1.  Taking, or attempting to take or possess, game
6857consistent with the state and federal laws and regulations and
6858rules of the commission in effect at the time of the taking.
6859     2.  All activities authorized by a muzzle-loading gun
6860season permit, a crossbow season permit, a turkey permit, an
6861archery season permit, a Florida waterfowl permit, and a
6862management area permit, excluding fishing.
6863     (12)  RESIDENT LIFETIME SPORTSMAN'S LICENSES.--
6864     (a)  Lifetime sportsman's licenses are available to
6865residents only, as follows, for:
6866     1.  Persons 4 years of age or younger, for a fee of $400.
6867     2.  Persons 5 years of age or older, but under 13 years of
6868age, for a fee of $700.
6869     3.  Persons 13 years of age or older, for a fee of $1,000.
6870     (b)  The following activities are authorized by the
6871purchase of a lifetime sportsman's license:
6872     1.  Taking, or attempting to take or possess, freshwater
6873and saltwater fish, and game, consistent with the state and
6874federal laws and regulations and rules of the commission in
6875effect at the time of taking.
6876     2.  All activities authorized by a management area permit,
6877a muzzle-loading gun season permit, a crossbow season permit, a
6878turkey permit, an archery season permit, a Florida waterfowl
6879permit, a snook permit, and a spiny lobster permit.
6880     (13)  PROCEEDS FROM THE SALE OF LIFETIME LICENSES.--The
6881proceeds from the sale of all lifetime licenses authorized in
6882this section shall be deposited into the Lifetime Fish and
6883Wildlife Trust Fund, to be distributed as provided in s. 379.207
6884372.105.
6885     (14)  RECIPROCAL FEE AGREEMENTS.--The commission is
6886authorized to reduce the fees for licenses and permits under
6887this section for residents of those states with which the
6888commission has entered into reciprocal agreements with respect
6889to such fees.
6890     (15)  FREE FISHING DAYS.--The commission may designate by
6891rule no more than 2 consecutive or nonconsecutive days in each
6892year as free freshwater fishing days and no more than 2
6893consecutive or nonconsecutive days in each year as free
6894saltwater fishing days. Notwithstanding any other provision of
6895this chapter, any person may take freshwater fish for
6896noncommercial purposes on a free freshwater fishing day and may
6897take saltwater fish for noncommercial purposes on a free
6898saltwater fishing day, without obtaining or possessing a license
6899or permit or paying a license or permit fee as prescribed in
6900this section. A person who takes freshwater or saltwater fish on
6901a free fishing day must comply with all laws, rules, and
6902regulations governing the holders of a fishing license or permit
6903and all other conditions and limitations regulating the taking
6904of freshwater or saltwater fish as are imposed by law or rule.
6905     (16)  PROHIBITED LICENSES OR PERMITS.--A person may not
6906make, forge, counterfeit, or reproduce a license or permit
6907required under this section, except for those persons authorized
6908by the commission to make or reproduce such a license or permit.
6909A person may not knowingly possess a forgery, counterfeit, or
6910unauthorized reproduction of such a license or permit. A person
6911who violates this subsection commits a Level Four violation
6912under s. 379.401 372.83.
6913     (17)  SUSPENDED OR REVOKED LICENSES.--A person may not take
6914game, freshwater fish, saltwater fish, or fur-bearing animals
6915within this state if a license issued to such person as required
6916under this section or a privilege granted to such person under
6917s. 379.353 372.562 is suspended or revoked. A person who
6918violates this subsection commits a Level Three violation under
6919s. 379.401 372.83.
6920     Section 140.  Section 370.063, Florida Statutes, is
6921renumbered as section 379.355, Florida Statutes, and amended to
6922read:
6923     379.355 370.063  Special recreational spiny lobster
6924license.--There is created a special recreational spiny lobster
6925license, to be issued to qualified persons as provided by this
6926section for the recreational harvest of spiny lobster beginning
6927August 5, 1994.
6928     (1)  The special recreational spiny lobster license shall
6929be available to any individual spiny lobster trap number holder
6930who also possesses a saltwater products license during the 1993-
69311994 license year. A person issued a special recreational spiny
6932lobster license may not also possess a trap number.
6933     (2)  The special recreational spiny lobster license is
6934required in order to harvest spiny lobster from state
6935territorial waters in quantities in excess of the regular
6936recreational bag limit but not in excess of a special bag limit
6937as established by the Marine Fisheries Commission for these
6938harvesters before the 1994-1995 license year. Such special bag
6939limit does not apply during the 2-day sport season established
6940by the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
6941     (3)  The holder of a special recreational spiny lobster
6942license must also possess the recreational spiny lobster permit
6943required by s. 379.354(8)(d) 372.57(8)(d).
6944     (4)  As a condition precedent to the issuance of a special
6945recreational spiny lobster license, the applicant must agree to
6946file quarterly reports with the Fish and Wildlife Conservation
6947Commission in such form as the commission requires, detailing
6948the amount of the licenseholder's spiny lobster harvest in the
6949previous quarter, including the harvest of other recreational
6950harvesters aboard the licenseholder's vessel.
6951     (4)(5)  The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission shall
6952issue special recreational spiny lobster licenses. The fee for
6953each such license is $100 per year. Each license issued in any
6954license year must be renewed by June 30 of each subsequent year
6955by the initial individual holder thereof. Noncompliance with the
6956reporting requirement in subsection (4) or with the special
6957recreational bag limit established under subsection (6)
6958constitutes grounds for which the commission may refuse to renew
6959the license for a subsequent license year. The number of such
6960licenses outstanding in any one license year may not exceed the
6961number issued for the 1994-1995 license year. A license is not
6962transferable by any method. Licenses that are not renewed expire
6963and may be reissued by the commission in the subsequent license
6964year to new applicants otherwise qualified under this section.
6965     (6)  To promote conservation of the spiny lobster resource,
6966consistent with equitable distribution and availability of the
6967resource, the commission shall establish a spiny lobster
6968management plan incorporating the special recreational spiny
6969lobster license, including, but not limited to, the
6970establishment of a special recreational bag limit for the
6971holders of such license as required by subsection (2). Such
6972special recreational bag limit must not be less than twice the
6973higher of the daily recreational bag limits.
6974     (5)(7)  The proceeds of the fees collected under this
6975section must be deposited in the Marine Resources Conservation
6976Trust Fund and used as follows:
6977     (a)  Thirty-five percent for research and the development
6978of reliable recreational catch statistics for the spiny lobster
6979fishery.
6980     (b)  Twenty percent for administration of this section.
6981     (c)  Forty-five percent to be used for enforcement of this
6982section.
6983     (6)(8)  Any person who violates this section commits a
6984Level One violation under s. 379.401 372.83.
6985     Section 141.  Section 372.5705, Florida Statutes, is
6986renumbered as section 379.356, Florida Statutes, to read:
6987     379.356 372.5705  Fish pond license.--The owner of a fish
6988pond of more than 20 acres which is located entirely within her
6989or his property may obtain a license from the commission for
6990such pond at a fee of $3 per surface acre, and no fishing
6991license shall be required of any person fishing in such licensed
6992pond.
6993     Section 142.  Section 372.5704, Florida Statutes, is
6994renumbered as section 379.357, Florida Statutes, and amended to
6995read:
6996     379.357 372.5704  Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
6997license program for tarpon; fees; penalties.--
6998     (1)  The commission shall establish a license program for
6999the purpose of issuing tags to individuals desiring to harvest
7000tarpon (megalops atlantica) from the waters of the state. The
7001tags shall be nontransferable, except that the commission may
7002allow for a limited number of tags to be purchased by
7003professional fishing guides for transfer to individuals, and
7004issued by the commission in order of receipt of a properly
7005completed application for a nonrefundable fee of $50 per tag.
7006The commission and any tax collector may sell the tags and
7007collect the fees therefor. Tarpon tags are valid from July 1
7008through June 30. Before August 15 of each year, each tax
7009collector shall submit to the commission all unissued tags for
7010the previous fiscal year along with a written audit report, on
7011forms prescribed or approved by the commission, as to the
7012numbers of the unissued tags. To defray the cost of issuing any
7013tag, the issuing tax collector shall collect and retain as his
7014or her costs, in addition to the tag fee collected, the amount
7015allowed under s. 379.352(6) 372.561(6) for the issuance of
7016licenses.
7017     (2)  The number of tags to be issued shall be determined by
7018rule of the commission. The commission shall in no way allow the
7019issuance of tarpon tags to adversely affect the tarpon
7020population.
7021     (2)(3)  Proceeds from the sale of tarpon tags shall be
7022deposited in the Marine Resources Conservation Trust Fund and
7023shall be used to gather information directly applicable to
7024tarpon management.
7025     (3)(4)  No individual shall take, kill, or possess any fish
7026of the species megalops atlantica, commonly known as tarpon,
7027unless such individual has purchased a tarpon tag and securely
7028attached it through the lower jaw of the fish. Said individual
7029shall within 5 days after the landing of the fish submit a form
7030to the commission which indicates the length, weight, and
7031physical condition of the tarpon when caught; the date and
7032location of where the fish was caught; and any other pertinent
7033information which may be required by the commission. The
7034commission may refuse to issue new tags to individuals or guides
7035who fail to provide the required information.
7036     (4)(5)  Any individual including a taxidermist who
7037possesses a tarpon which does not have a tag securely attached
7038as required by this section commits a Level Two violation under
7039s. 379.401 372.83. Provided, however, a taxidermist may remove
7040the tag during the process of mounting a tarpon. The removed tag
7041shall remain with the fish during any subsequent storage or
7042shipment.
7043     (5)(6)  Purchase of a tarpon tag shall not accord the
7044purchaser any right to harvest or possess tarpon in
7045contravention of rules adopted by the commission. No individual
7046may sell, offer for sale, barter, exchange for merchandise,
7047transport for sale, either within or without the state, offer to
7048purchase, or purchase any species of fish known as tarpon.
7049     (6)(7)  The commission shall prescribe and provide suitable
7050forms and tags necessary to carry out the provisions of this
7051section.
7052     (7)(8)  The provisions of this section shall not apply to
7053anyone who immediately returns a tarpon uninjured to the water
7054at the place where the fish was caught.
7055     Section 143.  Section 372.5717, Florida Statutes, is
7056renumbered as section 379.3581, Florida Statutes, and amended to
7057read:
7058     379.3581 372.5717  Hunter safety course; requirements;
7059penalty.--
7060     (1)  This section may be cited as the Senator Joe Carlucci
7061Hunter Safety Act.
7062     (2)(a)  Except as provided in paragraph (b), a person born
7063on or after June 1, 1975, may not be issued a license to take
7064wild animal life with the use of a firearm, gun, bow, or
7065crossbow in this state without having first successfully
7066completed a hunter safety course as provided in this section,
7067and without having in his or her personal possession a hunter
7068safety certification card, as provided in this section.
7069     (b)  A person born on or after June 1, 1975, who has not
7070successfully completed a hunter safety course may apply to the
7071commission for a special authorization to hunt under
7072supervision. The special authorization for supervised hunting
7073shall be designated on any license or permit required under this
7074chapter for a person to take game or fur-bearing animals and
7075shall be valid for not more than 1 year. A special authorization
7076for supervised hunting may not be issued more than once to the
7077person applying for such authorization. A person issued a
7078license with a special authorization to hunt under supervision
7079must hunt under the supervision of, and in the presence of, a
7080person 21 years or age or older who is licensed to hunt pursuant
7081to s. 379.354 372.57 or who is exempt from licensing
7082requirements or eligible for a free license pursuant to s.
7083379.353 372.562.
7084     (3)  The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission shall
7085institute and coordinate a statewide hunter safety course that
7086must be offered in every county and consist of not more than 16
7087hours of instruction including, but not limited to, instruction
7088in the competent and safe handling of firearms, conservation,
7089and hunting ethics.
7090     (4)  The commission shall issue a permanent hunter safety
7091certification card to each person who successfully completes the
7092hunter safety course. The commission shall maintain records of
7093hunter safety certification cards issued and shall establish
7094procedures for replacing lost or destroyed cards.
7095     (5)  A hunter safety certification card issued by a
7096wildlife agency of another state, or any Canadian province,
7097which shows that the holder of the card has successfully
7098completed a hunter safety course approved by the commission is
7099an acceptable substitute for the hunter safety certification
7100card issued by the commission.
7101     (6)  All persons subject to the requirements of subsection
7102(2) must have in their personal possession proof of compliance
7103with this section, while taking or attempting to take wildlife
7104with the use of a firearm, gun, bow, or crossbow, and must,
7105unless the requirement to complete a hunter safety course is
7106deferred pursuant to this section, display a valid hunter safety
7107certification card in order to purchase a Florida hunting
7108license. After the issuance of such a license, the license
7109itself shall serve as proof of compliance with this section. A
7110holder of a lifetime license whose license does not indicate on
7111the face of the license that a hunter safety course has been
7112completed must have in his or her personal possession a hunter
7113safety certification card, as provided by this section, while
7114attempting to take wild animal life with the use of a firearm,
7115gun, bow, or crossbow.
7116     (7)  The hunter safety requirements of this section do not
7117apply to persons for whom licenses are not required under s.
7118379.353(2) 372.562(2).
7119     (8)  A person who violates this section commits a Level One
7120violation under s. 379.401 372.83.
7121     Section 144.  Section 372.5718, Florida Statutes, is
7122renumbered as section 379.3582, Florida Statutes, and amended to
7123read:
7124     379.3582 372.5718  Hunter safety course for juveniles.--The
7125Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission shall develop a hunter
7126safety course for juveniles who are at least 5 years of age but
7127less than 16 years of age. The course must include, but is not
7128limited to, instruction in the competent and safe handling of
7129firearms, conservation, and hunting ethics. The course must be
7130appropriate for the ages of the students. The course is
7131voluntary and must be offered in each county in the state at
7132least annually. The course is in addition to, and not in lieu
7133of, the hunter safety course prescribed in s. 379.3581 372.5717.
7134     Section 145.  Part VII of chapter 379, Florida Statutes,
7135consisting of sections 379.361, 379.362, 379.363, 379.3635,
7136379.364, 379.365, 379.366, 379.367, 379.3671, 379.368, 379.369,
7137379.3711, 379.3712, 379.372, 379.373, 379.374, 379.3751,
7138379.3752, 379.3761, 379.3762, and 379.377, is created to read:
7139
PART VII
7140
NONRECREATIONAL LICENSES
7141
7142     Section 146.  Section 370.06, Florida Statutes, is
7143renumbered as section 379.361 Florida Statutes, and amended to
7144read:
7145     379.361 370.06  Licenses.--
7146     (1)  LICENSE ON PURSE SEINES.--There is levied, in addition
7147to any other taxes thereon, an annual license tax of $25 upon
7148each purse seine used in the waters of this state. This license
7149fee shall be collected in the manner provided in this section.
7150     (2)  SALTWATER PRODUCTS LICENSE.--
7151     (a)  Every person, firm, or corporation that sells, offers
7152for sale, barters, or exchanges for merchandise any saltwater
7153products, or which harvests saltwater products with certain gear
7154or equipment as specified by law, must have a valid saltwater
7155products license, except that the holder of an aquaculture
7156certificate under s. 597.004 is not required to purchase and
7157possess a saltwater products license in order to possess,
7158transport, or sell marine aquaculture products. Each saltwater
7159products license allows the holder to engage in any of the
7160activities for which the license is required. The license must
7161be in the possession of the licenseholder or aboard the vessel
7162and is subject to inspection at any time that harvesting
7163activities for which a saltwater products license is required
7164are being conducted.
7165     (b)1.  A restricted species endorsement on the saltwater
7166products license is required to sell to a licensed wholesale
7167dealer those species which the state, by law or rule, has
7168designated as "restricted species." This endorsement may be
7169issued only to a person who is at least 16 years of age, or to a
7170firm certifying that over 25 percent of its income or $5,000 of
7171its income, whichever is less, is attributable to the sale of
7172saltwater products pursuant to a saltwater products license
7173issued under this paragraph or a similar license from another
7174state. This endorsement may also be issued to a for-profit
7175corporation if it certifies that at least $5,000 of its income
7176is attributable to the sale of saltwater products pursuant to a
7177saltwater products license issued under this paragraph or a
7178similar license from another state. However, if at least 50
7179percent of the annual income of a person, firm, or for-profit
7180corporation is derived from charter fishing, the person, firm,
7181or for-profit corporation must certify that at least $2,500 of
7182the income of the person, firm, or corporation is attributable
7183to the sale of saltwater products pursuant to a saltwater
7184products license issued under this paragraph or a similar
7185license from another state, in order to be issued the
7186endorsement. Such income attribution must apply to at least 1 of
7187the last 3 years. For the purpose of this section, "income"
7188means that income that is attributable to work, employment,
7189entrepreneurship, pensions, retirement benefits, and social
7190security benefits.
7191     2.  To renew an existing restricted species endorsement, a
7192marine aquaculture producer possessing a valid saltwater
7193products license with a restricted species endorsement may apply
7194income from the sale of marine aquaculture products to licensed
7195wholesale dealers.
7196     3.  The commission is authorized to require verification of
7197such income for all restricted species endorsements issued
7198pursuant to this paragraph. Acceptable proof of income earned
7199from the sale of saltwater products shall be:
7200     a.  Copies of trip ticket records generated pursuant to
7201this subsection (marine fisheries information system),
7202documenting qualifying sale of saltwater products;
7203     b.  Copies of sales records from locales other than Florida
7204documenting qualifying sale of saltwater products;
7205     c.  A copy of the applicable federal income tax return,
7206including Form 1099 attachments, verifying income earned from
7207the sale of saltwater products;
7208     d.  Crew share statements verifying income earned from the
7209sale of saltwater products; or
7210     e.  A certified public accountant's notarized statement
7211attesting to qualifying source and amount of income.
7212
7213Notwithstanding any other provision of law, any person who owns
7214a retail seafood market or restaurant at a fixed location for at
7215least 3 years, who has had an occupational license for 3 years
7216prior to January 1, 1990, who harvests saltwater products to
7217supply his or her retail store, and who has had a saltwater
7218products license for 1 of the past 3 license years prior to
7219January 1, 1990, may provide proof of his or her verification of
7220income and sales value at the person's retail seafood market or
7221restaurant and in his or her saltwater products enterprise by
7222affidavit and shall thereupon be issued a restricted species
7223endorsement.
7224     4.  Exceptions from income requirements shall be as
7225follows:
7226     a.  A permanent restricted species endorsement shall be
7227available to those persons age 62 and older who have qualified
7228for such endorsement for at least 3 of the last 5 years.
7229     b.  Active military duty time shall be excluded from
7230consideration of time necessary to qualify and shall not be
7231counted against the applicant for purposes of qualifying.
7232     c.  Upon the sale of a used commercial fishing vessel owned
7233by a person, firm, or corporation possessing or eligible for a
7234restricted species endorsement, the purchaser of such vessel
7235shall be exempted from the qualifying income requirement for the
7236purpose of obtaining a restricted species endorsement for a
7237period of 1 year after purchase of the vessel.
7238     d.  Upon the death or permanent disablement of a person
7239possessing a restricted species endorsement, an immediate family
7240member wishing to carry on the fishing operation shall be
7241exempted from the qualifying income requirement for the purpose
7242of obtaining a restricted species endorsement for a period of 1
7243year after the death or disablement.
7244     e.  A restricted species endorsement may be issued on an
7245individual saltwater products license to a person age 62 or
7246older who documents that at least $2,500 of such person's income
7247is attributable to the sale of saltwater products.
7248     f.  A permanent restricted species endorsement may also be
7249issued on an individual saltwater products license to a person
7250age 70 or older who has held a saltwater products license for at
7251least 3 of the last 5 license years.
7252     g.  Any resident who is certified to be totally and
7253permanently disabled by the Railroad Retirement Board, by the
7254United States Department of Veterans Affairs or its predecessor,
7255or by any branch of the United States Armed Forces, or who holds
7256a valid identification card issued by the Department of
7257Veterans' Affairs pursuant to s. 295.17, upon proof of the same,
7258or any resident certified to be disabled by the United States
7259Social Security Administration or a licensed physician, upon
7260proof of the same, shall be exempted from the income
7261requirements if he or she also has held a saltwater products
7262license for at least 3 of the last 5 license years prior to the
7263date of the disability. A restricted species endorsement issued
7264under this paragraph may be issued only on an individual
7265saltwater products license.
7266     (c)  At least one saltwater products license bearing a
7267restricted species endorsement shall be aboard any vessel
7268harvesting restricted species in excess of any bag limit or when
7269fishing under a commercial quota or in commercial quantities,
7270and such vessel shall have a commercial vessel registration.
7271This subsection does not apply to any person, firm, or
7272corporation licensed under s. 379.362(1)(a)1. or (b)
7273370.07(1)(a)1. or (b) for activities pursuant to such licenses.
7274     (d)  A saltwater products license may be issued in the name
7275of an individual or a valid commercial vessel registration
7276number. However, a firm or corporation may only receive a
7277license issued to a valid commercial vessel registration number.
7278A saltwater products license may not be transferred by the
7279licenseholder to another individual, firm, or corporation. A
7280decal shall be issued with each saltwater products license
7281issued to a valid commercial vessel registration number. The
7282saltwater products license decal shall be the same color as the
7283vessel registration decal issued each year pursuant to s.
7284328.48(5) and shall indicate the period of time such license is
7285valid. The saltwater products license decal shall be placed
7286beside the vessel registration decal and, in the case of an
7287undocumented vessel, shall be placed so that the vessel
7288registration decal lies between the commercial vessel
7289registration number and the saltwater products license decal.
7290Any saltwater products license decal for a previous year shall
7291be removed from a vessel operating on the waters of the state.
7292     (e)  The annual fee for a saltwater products license is:
7293     1.  For a license issued in the name of an individual which
7294authorizes only that individual to engage in commercial fishing
7295activities from the shore or a vessel: a resident must pay $50;
7296a nonresident must pay $200; or an alien must pay $300.
7297     2.  For a license issued in the name of an individual which
7298authorizes that named individual to engage in commercial fishing
7299activities from the shore or a vessel and also authorizes each
7300person who is fishing with the named individual aboard a vessel
7301to engage in such activities: a resident must pay $150; a
7302nonresident must pay $600; or an alien must pay $900.
7303     3.  For a license issued to a valid commercial vessel
7304registration number which authorizes each person aboard such
7305registered vessel to engage in commercial fishing activities: a
7306resident, or a resident firm or corporation, must pay $100; a
7307nonresident, or a nonresident firm or corporation, must pay
7308$400; or an alien, or an alien firm or corporation, must pay
7309$600. For purposes of this subparagraph, a resident firm or
7310corporation means a firm or corporation formed under the laws of
7311this state; a nonresident firm or corporation means a firm or
7312corporation formed under the laws of any state other than
7313Florida; and an alien firm or corporation means a firm or
7314corporation organized under any laws other than laws of the
7315United States, any United States territory or possession, or any
7316state of the United States.
7317     (f)  Any person who sells saltwater products pursuant to a
7318saltwater products license may sell only to a licensed wholesale
7319dealer. A saltwater products license must be presented to the
7320licensed wholesale dealer each time saltwater products are sold,
7321and an imprint made thereof. The wholesale dealer shall keep
7322records of each transaction in such detail as may be required by
7323rule of the commission not in conflict with s. 379.362(6)
7324370.07(6), and shall provide the holder of the saltwater
7325products license with a copy of the record. It is unlawful for
7326any licensed wholesale dealer to buy saltwater products from any
7327unlicensed person under the provisions of this section, except
7328that a licensed wholesale dealer may buy from another licensed
7329wholesale dealer. It is unlawful for any licensed wholesale
7330dealer to buy saltwater products designated as "restricted
7331species" from any person, firm, or corporation not possessing a
7332restricted species endorsement on his or her saltwater products
7333license under the provisions of this section, except that a
7334licensed wholesale dealer may buy from another licensed
7335wholesale dealer. For purposes of this subsection, any saltwater
7336products received by a wholesale dealer are presumed to have
7337been purchased.
7338     (g)  The commission shall be the licensing agency, may
7339contract with private persons or entities to implement aspects
7340of the licensing program, and shall establish by rule a marine
7341fisheries information system in conjunction with the licensing
7342program to gather fisheries data.
7343     (h)  Any person who sells, offers for sale, barters, or
7344exchanges for merchandise saltwater products must have a method
7345of catch preservation which meets the requirements and standards
7346of the seafood quality control code promulgated by the
7347commission.
7348     (i)  A saltwater products license is required to harvest
7349commercial quantities of saltwater products. Any vessel from
7350which commercial quantities of saltwater products are harvested
7351must have a commercial vessel registration. Commercial
7352quantities of saltwater products shall be defined as:
7353     1.  With respect to those species for which no bag limit
7354has been established, more than 100 pounds per person per day,
7355provided that the harvesting of two fish or less per person per
7356day shall not be considered commercial quantities regardless of
7357aggregate weight; and
7358     2.  With respect to those species for which a bag limit has
7359been established, more than the bag limit allowed by law or
7360rule.
7361     (j)1.  In addition to the saltwater products license, a
7362marine life fishing endorsement is required for the harvest of
7363marine life species as defined by rule of the Fish and Wildlife
7364Conservation Commission. This endorsement may be issued only to
7365a person who is at least 16 years of age or older or to a
7366corporation holding a valid restricted species endorsement.
7367     2.a.  Effective July 1, 1998, and until July 1, 2002, a
7368marine life endorsement may not be issued under this paragraph,
7369except that those endorsements that are active during the 1997-
73701998 fiscal year may be renewed.
7371     b.  In 1998 persons or corporations holding a marine life
7372endorsement that was active in the 1997-1998 fiscal year or an
7373immediate family member of that person must request renewal of
7374the marine life endorsement before December 31, 1998.
7375     c.  In subsequent years and until July 1, 2002, a marine
7376life endorsement holder or member of his or her immediate family
7377must request renewal of the marine life endorsement before
7378September 30 of each year.
7379     d.  If a person or corporation holding an active marine
7380life fishing endorsement or a member of that person's immediate
7381family does not request renewal of the endorsement before the
7382applicable dates specified in this paragraph, the commission
7383shall deactivate that marine life fishing endorsement.
7384     e.  In the event of the death or disability of a person
7385holding an active marine life fishing endorsement, the
7386endorsement may be transferred by the person to a member of his
7387or her immediate family or may be renewed by any person so
7388designated by the executor of the person's estate.
7389     f.  Persons or corporations who hold saltwater product
7390licenses with marine life fishing endorsements issued to their
7391vessel registration numbers and who subsequently replace their
7392existing vessels with new vessels may transfer the existing
7393marine life fishing endorsement to the new boat registration
7394numbers.
7395     g.  Persons or corporations who hold saltwater product
7396licenses with marine life fishing endorsements issued to their
7397name and who subsequently incorporate or unincorporate may
7398transfer the existing marine life fishing endorsement to the new
7399corporation or person.
7400     3.  The fee for a marine life fishery endorsement on a
7401saltwater products license shall be $75. These license fees
7402shall be collected and deposited in the Marine Resources
7403Conservation Trust Fund and used for the purchase and
7404installation of vessel mooring buoys at coral reef sites and for
7405research related to marine fisheries.
7406     (3)  NET LICENSES.--Except for cast nets and bait seines
7407which are 100 feet in length or less and which have a mesh that
7408is 3/8 inch or less, all nets used to take finfish, including,
7409but not limited to, gill nets, trammel nets, and beach seines,
7410must be licensed or registered. Each net used to take finfish
7411for commercial purposes, or by a nonresident, must be licensed
7412under a saltwater products license issued pursuant to subsection
7413(2) and must bear the number of such license.
7414     (4)  SPECIAL ACTIVITY LICENSES.--
7415     (a)  A special activity license is required for any person
7416to use gear or equipment not authorized in this chapter or rule
7417of the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission for harvesting
7418saltwater species. In accordance with this chapter, s. 16, Art.
7419X of the State Constitution, and rules of the commission, the
7420commission may issue special activity licenses for the use of
7421nonconforming gear or equipment, including, but not limited to,
7422trawls, seines and entangling nets, traps, and hook and line
7423gear, to be used in harvesting saltwater species for scientific
7424and governmental purposes, and, where allowable, for innovative
7425fisheries. The commission may prescribe by rule application
7426requirements and terms, conditions, and restrictions to be
7427incorporated into each special activity license. This subsection
7428does not apply to gear or equipment used by certified marine
7429aquaculturists as provided for in s. 597.004 to harvest marine
7430aquaculture products.
7431     (b)  The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is
7432authorized to issue special activity licenses in accordance with
7433this section and s. 379.2524 370.31, to permit the importation
7434and possession of wild anadromous sturgeon. The commission is
7435also authorized to issue special activity licenses, in
7436accordance with this section and s. 379.2524 370.31, to permit
7437the importation, possession, and aquaculture of native and
7438nonnative anadromous sturgeon until best-management practices
7439are implemented for the cultivation of anadromous sturgeon
7440pursuant to s. 597.004. The special activity license shall
7441provide for specific management practices to protect indigenous
7442populations of saltwater species.
7443     (c)  The conditions and specific management practices
7444established in this section shall be incorporated into permits
7445and authorizations issued pursuant to chapter 253, chapter 373,
7446chapter 403, or this chapter, when incorporating such provisions
7447is in accordance with the aquaculture permit consolidation
7448procedures. No separate issuance of a special activity license
7449is required when conditions and specific management practices
7450are incorporated into permits or authorizations under this
7451paragraph. Implementation of this section to consolidate
7452permitting actions does not constitute rules within the meaning
7453of s. 120.52.
7454     (d)  The commission is authorized to issue special activity
7455licenses in accordance with s. 379.2411 370.101 and this
7456section; aquaculture permit consolidation procedures in s.
7457379.2523(2) 370.26(2); and rules of the commission to permit the
7458capture and possession of saltwater species protected by law and
7459used as stock for artificial cultivation and propagation.
7460     (e)  The commission is authorized to adopt rules to govern
7461the administration of special activities licenses as provided in
7462this chapter and rules of the commission. Such rules may
7463prescribe application requirements and terms, conditions, and
7464restrictions for any such special activity license requested
7465pursuant to this section.
7466     (5)  APALACHICOLA BAY OYSTER HARVESTING LICENSE.--
7467     (a)  For purposes of this section, the following
7468definitions shall apply:
7469     1.  "Person" means an individual.
7470     2.  "Resident" means any person who has:
7471     a.  Continuously resided in this state for 6 months
7472immediately preceding the making of his or her application for
7473an Apalachicola Bay oyster harvesting license; or
7474     b.  Established a domicile in this state and evidenced that
7475domicile as provided in s. 222.17.
7476     (b)  No person shall harvest oysters from the Apalachicola
7477Bay without a valid Apalachicola Bay oyster harvesting license
7478issued by the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
7479This requirement shall not apply to anyone harvesting
7480noncommercial quantities of oysters in accordance with
7481commission rules chapter 46-27, Florida Administrative Code, or
7482to any person less than 18 years old.
7483     (c)  Any person wishing to obtain an Apalachicola Bay
7484oyster harvesting license shall submit an annual fee for the
7485license during a 45-day period from May 17 to June 30 of each
7486year preceding the license year for which the license is valid.
7487Failure to pay the annual fee within the required time period
7488shall result in a $500 late fee being imposed before issuance of
7489the license.
7490     (d)  The Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services
7491shall collect an annual fee of $100 from residents and $500 from
7492nonresidents for the issuance of an Apalachicola Bay oyster
7493harvesting license. The license year shall begin on July 1 of
7494each year and end on June 30 of the following year. The license
7495shall be valid only for the licensee. Only bona fide residents
7496of Florida may obtain a resident license pursuant to this
7497subsection.
7498     (e)  Each person who applies for an Apalachicola Bay oyster
7499harvesting license shall, before receiving the license for the
7500first time, attend an educational seminar of not more than 16
7501hours length, developed and conducted jointly by the Department
7502of Environmental Protection's Apalachicola National Estuarine
7503Research Reserve, the Division of Law Enforcement of the Fish
7504and Wildlife Conservation Commission, and the Department of
7505Agriculture and Consumer Services' Apalachicola District
7506Shellfish Environmental Assessment Laboratory. The seminar shall
7507address, among other things, oyster biology, conservation of the
7508Apalachicola Bay, sanitary care of oysters, small business
7509management, and water safety. The seminar shall be offered five
7510times per year, and each person attending shall receive a
7511certificate of participation to present when obtaining an
7512Apalachicola Bay oyster harvesting license. The educational
7513seminar is not required for renewal of an Apalachicola Bay
7514oyster harvesting license.
7515     (f)  Each person, while harvesting oysters in Apalachicola
7516Bay, shall have in possession a valid Apalachicola Bay oyster
7517harvesting license, or proof of having applied for a license
7518within the required time period, and shall produce such license
7519or proof of application upon request of any law enforcement
7520officer.
7521     (g)  Each person who obtains an Apalachicola Bay oyster
7522harvesting license shall prominently display the license number
7523upon any vessel the person owns which is used for the taking of
7524oysters, in numbers which are at least 10 inches high and 1 inch
7525wide, so that the permit number is readily identifiable from the
7526air and water. Only one vessel displaying a given number may be
7527used at any time. A licensee may harvest oysters from the vessel
7528of another licensee.
7529     (h)  Any person holding an Apalachicola Bay oyster
7530harvesting license shall receive credit for the license fee
7531against the saltwater products license fee.
7532     (i)  The proceeds from Apalachicola Bay oyster harvesting
7533license fees shall be deposited in the General Inspection Trust
7534Fund and, less reasonable administrative costs, shall be used or
7535distributed by the Department of Agriculture and Consumer
7536Services for the following purposes in Apalachicola Bay:
7537     1.  Relaying and transplanting live oysters.
7538     2.  Shell planting to construct or rehabilitate oyster
7539bars.
7540     3.  Education programs for licensed oyster harvesters on
7541oyster biology, aquaculture, boating and water safety,
7542sanitation, resource conservation, small business management,
7543marketing, and other relevant subjects.
7544     4.  Research directed toward the enhancement of oyster
7545production in the bay and the water management needs of the bay.
7546     (j)  Any person who violates any of the provisions of
7547paragraphs (b) and (d)-(g) commits a misdemeanor of the second
7548degree, punishable as provided in ss. 775.082 and 775.083.
7549Nothing in this subsection shall limit the application of
7550existing penalties.
7551     (k)  Any oyster harvesting license issued pursuant to this
7552subsection must be in compliance with the rules of the Fish and
7553Wildlife Conservation Commission regulating gear or equipment,
7554harvest seasons, size and bag limits, and the taking of
7555saltwater species.
7556     (6)  LICENSE YEAR.--The license year on all licenses
7557relating to saltwater products dealers, seafood dealers, aliens,
7558residents, and nonresidents, unless otherwise provided, shall
7559begin on July 1 of each year and end on June 30 of the next
7560succeeding year. All licenses shall be so dated. However, if the
7561commission determines that it is in the best interest of the
7562state to issue a license required under this chapter to an
7563individual on the birthday of the applicant, the commission may
7564establish by rule a procedure to do so. This section does not
7565apply to licenses and permits when their use is confined to an
7566open season.
7567     (7)  LICENSES SUBJECT TO INSPECTION; NONTRANSFERABLE;
7568EXCEPTION.--Licenses of every kind and nature granted under the
7569provisions of the fish and game laws of this state are at all
7570times subject to inspection by the police officers of this state
7571and the officers of the Fish and Wildlife Conservation
7572Commission. Such licenses are not transferable unless otherwise
7573provided by law.
7574     (8)  COLLECTION OF LICENSES, FEES.--Unless otherwise
7575provided by law, all license taxes or fees provided for in this
7576part chapter shall be collected by the commission or its duly
7577authorized agents or deputies to be deposited by the Chief
7578Financial Officer in the Marine Resources Conservation Trust
7579Fund. The commission may by rule establish a reasonable
7580processing fee for any free license or permit required under
7581this part chapter. The commission is authorized to accept
7582payment by credit card for fees, fines, and civil penalties
7583levied pursuant to this part chapter.
7584     (9)  DENIAL OF LICENSE RENEWAL OR ISSUANCE.--The commission
7585shall deny the renewal or issuance of any saltwater products
7586license, wholesale dealer license, or retail dealer license to
7587anyone that has unpaid fees, civil assessments, or fines owed to
7588the commission.
7589     Section 147.  Section 370.07, Florida Statutes, is
7590renumbered as section 379.362, Florida Statutes, and amended to
7591read:
7592     379.362 370.07  Wholesale and retail saltwater products
7593dealers; regulation.--
7594     (1)  DEFINITIONS; LICENSES AUTHORIZED.--Annual license or
7595privilege taxes are hereby levied and imposed upon dealers in
7596the state in saltwater products. It is unlawful for any person,
7597firm, or corporation to deal in any such products without first
7598paying for and procuring the license required by this section.
7599Application for all licenses shall be made to the Fish and
7600Wildlife Conservation Commission on blanks to be furnished by
7601it. All licenses shall be issued by the commission upon payment
7602to it of the license tax. The licenses are defined as:
7603     (a)1.  "Wholesale county dealer" is any person, firm, or
7604corporation which sells saltwater products to any person, firm,
7605or corporation except to the consumer and who may buy saltwater
7606products in the county designated on the wholesale license from
7607any person licensed pursuant to s. 379.361(2) 370.06(2) or from
7608any licensed wholesale dealer.
7609     2.  "Wholesale state dealer" is a person, firm, or
7610corporation which sells saltwater products to any person, firm,
7611or corporation except to the consumer and who may buy saltwater
7612products in any county of the state from any person licensed
7613pursuant to s. 379.361(2) 370.06(2) or from any licensed
7614wholesale dealer.
7615     3.  "Wholesale dealer" is either a county or a state
7616dealer.
7617     (b)  A "retail dealer" is any person, firm, or corporation
7618which sells saltwater products directly to the consumer, but no
7619license is required of a dealer in merchandise who deals in or
7620sells saltwater products consumed on the premises or prepared
7621for immediate consumption and sold to be taken out of any
7622restaurant licensed by the Division of Hotels and Restaurants of
7623the Department of Business and Professional Regulation.
7624
7625Any person, firm, or corporation which is both a wholesale
7626dealer and a retail dealer shall obtain both a wholesale
7627dealer's license and a retail dealer's license. If a wholesale
7628dealer has more than one place of business, the annual license
7629tax shall be effective for all places of business, provided that
7630the wholesale dealer supplies to the commission a complete list
7631of additional places of business upon application for the annual
7632license tax.
7633     (2)  LICENSES; AMOUNT, TRUST FUND.--
7634     (a)  A resident wholesale county seafood dealer is required
7635to pay an annual license tax of $300.
7636     (b)  A resident wholesale state dealer is required to pay
7637an annual license tax of $450.
7638     (c)  A nonresident wholesale county dealer is required to
7639pay an annual license tax of $500.
7640     (d)  A nonresident wholesale state dealer is required to
7641pay an annual license tax of $1,000.
7642     (e)  An alien wholesale county dealer is required to pay an
7643annual license tax of $1,000.
7644     (f)  An alien wholesale state dealer is required to pay an
7645annual license tax of $1,500.
7646     (g)  A resident retail dealer is required to pay an annual
7647license tax of $25; however, if such a dealer has more than one
7648place of business, the dealer shall designate one place of
7649business as a central place of business, shall pay an annual
7650license tax of $25 for such place of business, and shall pay an
7651annual license tax of $10 for each other place of business.
7652     (h)  A nonresident retail dealer is required to pay an
7653annual license tax of $200; however, if such a dealer has more
7654than one place of business, the dealer shall designate one place
7655of business as a central place of business, shall pay an annual
7656license tax of $200 for such place of business, and shall pay an
7657annual license tax of $25 for each other place of business.
7658     (i)  An alien retail dealer is required to pay an annual
7659license tax of $250; however, if such a dealer has more than one
7660place of business, the dealer shall designate one place of
7661business as a central place of business, shall pay an annual
7662license tax of $250 for such place of business, and shall pay an
7663annual license tax of $50 for each other place of business.
7664     (j)  License or privilege taxes, together with any other
7665funds derived from the Federal Government or from any other
7666source, shall be deposited in a Florida Saltwater Products
7667Promotion Trust Fund to be administered by the Department of
7668Agriculture and Consumer Services for the sole purpose of
7669promoting all fish and saltwater products produced in this
7670state, except that 4 percent of the total wholesale and retail
7671saltwater products dealer's license fees collected shall be
7672deposited into the Marine Resources Conservation Trust Fund
7673administered by the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
7674for the purpose of processing wholesale and retail saltwater
7675products dealer's licenses.
7676     (3)  OYSTER MANAGEMENT AND RESTORATION PROGRAMS.--The
7677Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services shall use or
7678distribute funds paid into the State Treasury to the credit of
7679the General Inspection Trust Fund pursuant to s. 201.15(11),
7680less reasonable costs of administration, to fund the following
7681oyster management and restoration programs in Apalachicola Bay
7682and other oyster harvest areas in the state:
7683     (a)  The relaying and transplanting of live oysters.
7684     (b)  Shell planting to construct or rehabilitate oyster
7685bars.
7686     (c)  Education programs for licensed oyster harvesters on
7687oyster biology, aquaculture, boating and water safety,
7688sanitation, resource conservation, small business management,
7689and other relevant subjects.
7690     (d)  Research directed toward the enhancement of oyster
7691production in the bay and the water management needs of the bay.
7692     (4)  TRANSPORTATION OF SALTWATER PRODUCTS.--
7693     (a)  A person transporting in this state saltwater products
7694that were produced in this state, regardless of destination,
7695shall have in his or her possession invoices, bills of lading,
7696or other similar instruments showing the number of packages,
7697boxes, or containers and the number of pounds of each species
7698and the name, physical address, and the Florida wholesale dealer
7699number of the dealer of origin.
7700     (b)  A person transporting in this state saltwater products
7701that were produced outside this state to be delivered to a
7702destination in this state shall have in his or her possession
7703invoices, bills of lading, or other similar instruments showing
7704the number of packages, boxes, or containers and the number of
7705pounds of each species, the name and physical address of the
7706dealer of origin, and the name, physical address, and Florida
7707wholesale dealer number of the Florida dealer to whom the
7708shipment is to be delivered.
7709     (c)  A person transporting in this state saltwater products
7710that were produced outside this state which are to be delivered
7711to a destination outside this state shall have in his or her
7712possession invoices, bills of lading, or other similar
7713instruments showing the number of packages, boxes, or containers
7714and the number of pounds of each species, the name and physical
7715address of the dealer of origin, and the name and physical
7716address of the dealer to whom the shipment is to be delivered.
7717     (d)  If the saltwater products in transit come from more
7718than one dealer, distributor, or producer, each lot from each
7719dealer shall be covered by invoices, bills of lading, and other
7720similar instruments showing the number of boxes or containers
7721and the number of pounds of each species. Each invoice, bill of
7722lading, and other similar instrument shall display the wholesale
7723dealer license number and the name and physical address of the
7724dealer, distributor, or producer of the lot covered by the
7725instrument.
7726     (e)  It is unlawful to sell, deliver, ship, or transport,
7727or to possess for the purpose of selling, delivering, shipping,
7728or transporting, any saltwater products without all invoices
7729concerning the products having thereon the wholesale dealer
7730license number in the form prescribed under this subsection and
7731the rules of the commission. Any saltwater products found in the
7732possession of any person who is in violation of this paragraph
7733may be seized by the commission and disposed of in the manner
7734provided by law.
7735     (f)  Nothing contained in this subsection may be construed
7736to apply to the sale and delivery to a consumer of saltwater
7737products in an ordinary retail transaction by a licensed retail
7738dealer who has purchased such products from a licensed wholesale
7739dealer, or to the sale and delivery of the catch or products of
7740a saltwater products licensee to a Florida-licensed wholesale
7741dealer.
7742     (g)  Wholesale dealers' licenses shall be issued only to
7743applicants who furnish to the commission satisfactory evidence
7744of law-abiding reputation and who pledge themselves to
7745faithfully observe all of the laws, rules, and regulations of
7746this state relating to the conservation of, dealing in, or
7747taking, selling, transporting, or possession of saltwater
7748products, and to cooperate in the enforcement of all such laws
7749to every reasonable extent. This pledge may be included in the
7750application for license.
7751     (h)  A wholesale dealer, retail dealer, or restaurant
7752facility shall not purchase or sell for public consumption any
7753saltwater products known to be taken illegally, or known to be
7754taken in violation of s. 16, Art. X of the State Constitution,
7755or any rule or statute implementing its provisions.
7756     (i)  Any person who violates the provisions of this
7757subsection commits a misdemeanor of the first degree, punishable
7758as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083.
7759     (5)  LICENSE DENIAL, SUSPENSION, OR REVOCATION.--
7760     (a)  A license issued to a wholesale or retail dealer is
7761good only to the person to whom issued and named therein and is
7762not transferable. The commission may revoke, suspend, or deny
7763the renewal of the license of any licensee:
7764     1.  Upon the conviction of the licensee of any violation of
7765the laws or regulations designed for the conservation of
7766saltwater products;
7767     2.  Upon conviction of the licensee of knowingly dealing
7768in, buying, selling, transporting, possessing, or taking any
7769saltwater product, at any time and from any waters, in violation
7770of the laws of this state; or
7771     3.  Upon satisfactory evidence of any violation of the laws
7772or any regulations of this state designed for the conservation
7773of saltwater products or of any of the laws of this state
7774relating to dealing in, buying, selling, transporting,
7775possession, or taking of saltwater products.
7776     (b)  Upon revocation of such license, no other or further
7777license may be issued to the dealer within 3 years from the date
7778of revocation except upon special order of the commission. After
7779revocation, it is unlawful for such dealer to exercise any of
7780the privileges of a licensed wholesale or retail dealer.
7781     (c)  In addition to, or in lieu of, the penalty imposed
7782pursuant to this subsection, the commission may impose penalties
7783pursuant to s. 379.407 370.021.
7784     (6)  RECORDS TO BE KEPT ON SALTWATER PRODUCTS.--
7785     (a)  Wholesale dealers shall be required by the commission
7786to make and preserve a record of the names and addresses of
7787persons from whom or to whom saltwater products are purchased or
7788sold, the quantity so purchased or sold from or to each vendor
7789or purchaser, and the date of each such transaction. Retail
7790dealers shall be required to make and preserve a record from
7791whom all saltwater products are purchased. Such record shall be
7792open to inspection at all times by the commission. A report
7793covering the sale of saltwater products shall be made monthly or
7794as often as required by rule to the commission by each wholesale
7795dealer. All reports required under this subsection are
7796confidential and shall be exempt from the provisions of s.
7797119.07(1) except that, pursuant to authority related to
7798interstate fishery compacts as provided by ss. 379.2253(3) and
7799379.2254(3) 370.19(3) and 370.20(3), reports may be shared with
7800another state if that state is a member of an interstate
7801fisheries compact, and if that state has signed a Memorandum of
7802Agreement or a similar instrument agreeing to preserve
7803confidentiality as established by Florida law.
7804     (b)  The commission may revoke, suspend, or deny the
7805renewal of the license of any dealer for failure to make and
7806keep required records, for failure to make required reports, for
7807failure or refusal to permit the examination of required
7808records, or for falsifying any such record. In addition to, or
7809in lieu of, the penalties imposed pursuant to this paragraph and
7810s. 370.021, the commission may impose against any person, firm,
7811or corporation who is determined to have violated any provision
7812of this paragraph or any provisions of any commission rules
7813adopted pursuant to s. 370.0607, the following additional
7814penalties:
7815     1.  For the first violation, a civil penalty of up to
7816$1,000;
7817     2.  For a second violation committed within 24 months of
7818any previous violation, a civil penalty of up to $2,500; and
7819     3.  For a third or subsequent violation committed within 36
7820months of any previous two violations, a civil penalty of up to
7821$5,000.
7822
7823The proceeds of all civil penalties collected pursuant to this
7824subsection shall be deposited into the Marine Resources
7825Conservation Trust Fund and shall be used for administration,
7826auditing, and law enforcement purposes.
7827     (7)  PURCHASE OF SALTWATER PRODUCTS AT TEMPORARY
7828LOCATION.--Wholesale dealers purchasing saltwater products
7829pursuant to s. 379.361(2) 370.06(2) at any site other than a
7830site located in a county where the dealer has a permanent
7831address must notify the Fish and Wildlife Conservation
7832Commission of the location of the temporary site of business for
7833each day business is to be conducted at such site.
7834     (8)  UNLAWFUL PURCHASE OF SALTWATER PRODUCTS.--It is
7835unlawful for any licensed retail dealer or any restaurant
7836licensed by the Division of Hotels and Restaurants of the
7837Department of Business and Professional Regulation to buy
7838saltwater products from any person other than a licensed
7839wholesale or retail dealer. For purposes of this subsection, any
7840saltwater products received by a retail dealer or a restaurant
7841are presumed to have been purchased.
7842     Section 148.  Section 372.65, Florida Statutes, is
7843renumbered as section 379.363, Florida Statutes, and amended to
7844read:
7845     379.363 372.65  Freshwater fish dealer's license.--
7846     (1)  No person shall engage in the business of taking for
7847sale or selling any frogs or freshwater fish, including live
7848bait, of any species or size, or importing any exotic or
7849nonindigenous fish, until such person has obtained a license and
7850paid the fee therefor as set forth herein. The license issued
7851shall be in the possession of the person to whom issued while
7852such person is engaging in the business of taking for sale or
7853selling freshwater fish or frogs, is not transferable, shall
7854bear on its face in indelible ink the name of the person to whom
7855it is issued, and shall be affixed to a license identification
7856card issued by the commission. Such license is not valid unless
7857it bears the name of the person to whom it is issued and is so
7858affixed. The failure of such person to exhibit such license to
7859the commission or any of its wildlife officers when such person
7860is found engaging in such business is a violation of law. The
7861license fees and activities permitted under particular licenses
7862are as follows:
7863     (a)  The fee for a resident commercial fishing license,
7864which permits a resident to take freshwater fish or frogs by any
7865lawful method prescribed by the commission and to sell such fish
7866or frogs, shall be $25. The license provided for in this
7867paragraph shall also allow noncommercial fishing as provided by
7868law and commission rules, and the license in s. 379.354(4)(a)
7869372.57(4)(a) shall not be required.
7870     (b)  The fee for a resident freshwater fish dealer's
7871license, which permits a resident to import, export, or sell
7872freshwater fish or frogs, including live bait, shall be $40.
7873     (c)  The fee for a nonresident commercial fishing license,
7874which permits a nonresident to take freshwater fish or frogs as
7875provided in paragraph (a), shall be $100.
7876     (d)  The fee for a nonresident retail fish dealer's
7877license, which permits a nonresident to sell freshwater fish or
7878frogs to a consumer, shall be $100.
7879     (e)  The fee for a nonresident wholesale fish dealer's
7880license, which permits a nonresident to sell freshwater fish or
7881frogs within the state, and to buy freshwater fish or frogs for
7882resale, shall be $500.
7883     (f)  The fee for a nonresident wholesale fish buyer's
7884license, which permits a nonresident who does not sell
7885freshwater fish or frogs in Florida to buy freshwater fish or
7886frogs from resident fish dealers for resale outside the state,
7887shall be $50.
7888     (g)  Any individual or business issued an aquaculture
7889certificate, pursuant to s. 597.004, shall be exempt from the
7890requirements of this part chapter with respect to aquaculture
7891products authorized under such certificate.
7892     (h)  There is levied, in addition to any other license fee
7893thereon, an annual gear license fee of $50 upon each person
7894fishing with trawl seines used in the fresh waters of the state.
7895     (i)  There is levied, in addition to any other license fee
7896thereon, an annual gear license fee of $100 upon each person
7897fishing with haul seines used in the fresh waters of the state.
7898     (2)  Each boat engaged in commercial fishing shall have at
7899least one licensed commercial fisher on board.
7900     (3)  It shall be unlawful for any resident freshwater fish
7901dealer, or any nonresident wholesale or nonresident retail fish
7902dealer, or any nonresident wholesale fish buyer to buy
7903freshwater fish or frogs from any unlicensed person.
7904     Section 149.  Section 372.651, Florida Statutes, is
7905renumbered as section 379.3635, Florida Statutes, and amended to
7906read:
7907     379.3635 372.651  Haul seine and trawl permits; Lake
7908Okeechobee freshwater lakes in excess of 500 square miles;
7909fees.--
7910     (1)  The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is
7911authorized to issue permits for each haul seine or trawl used in
7912Lake Okeechobee freshwater lakes in the state having an area in
7913excess of 500 square miles.
7914     (2)  The commission may charge an annual fee for the
7915issuance of such permits which shall not exceed:
7916     (a)  For a resident trawl permit, $50.
7917     (b)  For a resident haul seine permit, $100.
7918     (c)  For a nonresident or alien trawl or haul seine permit,
7919$500.
7920     Section 150.  Section 372.66, Florida Statutes, is
7921renumbered as section 379.364, Florida Statutes, to read:
7922     379.364 372.66  License required for fur and hide
7923dealers.--
7924     (1)  It is unlawful for any person to engage in the
7925business of a dealer or buyer in alligator skins or green or
7926dried furs in the state or purchase such skins within the state
7927until such person has been licensed as herein provided.
7928     (2)  Any resident dealer or buyer who solicits business
7929through the mails, or by advertising, or who travels to buy or
7930employs or has other agents or buyers, shall be deemed a
7931resident state dealer and must pay a license fee of $100 per
7932annum.
7933     (3)  A nonresident dealer or buyer must pay a license fee
7934of $500 per annum.
7935     (4)  All dealers and buyers shall forward to the Fish and
7936Wildlife Conservation Commission each 2 weeks during open season
7937a report showing number and kind of hides bought and name of
7938trapper from whom bought and the trapper's license number, or if
7939trapper is exempt from license under any of the provisions of
7940this chapter, such report shall show the nature of such
7941exemption. A common carrier may not knowingly ship or transport
7942or receive for transportation any hides or furs unless such
7943shipments have marked thereon name of shipper and the number of
7944her or his fur-animal license or fur dealer's license.
7945     Section 151.  Section 370.13, Florida Statutes, is
7946renumbered as section 379.365, Florida Statutes, and amended to
7947read:
7948     379.365 370.13  Stone crab; regulation.--
7949     (1)  FEES AND EQUITABLE RENT.--
7950     (a)  Endorsement fee.--The fee for a stone crab endorsement
7951for the taking of stone crabs, as required by rule of the Fish
7952and Wildlife Conservation Commission, is $125, $25 of which must
7953be used solely for trap retrieval under s. 379.2424 370.143.
7954     (b)  Certificate fees.--
7955     1.  For each trap certificate issued by the commission
7956under the requirements of the stone crab trap limitation program
7957established by commission rule, there is an annual fee of 50
7958cents per certificate. Replacement tags for lost or damaged tags
7959cost 50 cents each plus the cost of shipping. In the event of a
7960major natural disaster, such as a hurricane or major storm, that
7961causes massive trap losses within an area declared by the
7962Governor to be a disaster emergency area, the commission may
7963temporarily defer or waive replacement tag fees.
7964     2.  The fee for transferring trap certificates is $1 per
7965certificate transferred, except that the fee for eligible crew
7966members is 50 cents per certificate transferred. Eligible crew
7967members shall be determined according to criteria established by
7968rule of the commission. Payment must be made by money order or
7969cashier's check, submitted with the certificate transfer form
7970developed by the commission.
7971     3.  In addition to the transfer fee, a surcharge of $1 per
7972certificate transferred, or 25 percent of the actual value of
7973the transferred certificate, whichever is greater, will be
7974assessed the first time a certificate is transferred outside the
7975original holder's immediate family.
7976     4.  Transfer fees and surcharges only apply to the actual
7977number of certificates received by the purchaser. A transfer of
7978a certificate is not effective until the commission receives a
7979notarized copy of the bill of sale as proof of the actual value
7980of the transferred certificate or certificates, which must also
7981be submitted with the transfer form and payment.
7982     5.  A transfer fee will not be assessed or required when
7983the transfer is within a family as a result of the death or
7984disability of the certificate owner. A surcharge will not be
7985assessed for any transfer within an individual's immediate
7986family.
7987     (c)  Incidental take endorsement.--The cost of an
7988incidental take endorsement, as established by commission rule,
7989is $25.
7990     (d)  Equitable rent.--The commission may establish by rule
7991an amount of equitable rent per trap certificate that may be
7992recovered as partial compensation to the state for the enhanced
7993access to its natural resources. In determining whether to
7994establish such a rent and the amount thereof, the commission may
7995consider the amount of revenues annually generated by
7996endorsement fees, trap certificate fees, transfer fees,
7997surcharges, replacement trap tag fees, trap retrieval fees,
7998incidental take endorsement fees, and the continued economic
7999viability of the commercial stone crab industry. A rule
8000establishing an amount of equitable rent shall become effective
8001only after approval by the Legislature.
8002     (e)  Disposition of fees, surcharges, civil penalties and
8003fines, and equitable rent.--Endorsement fees, trap certificate
8004fees, transfer fees, civil penalties and fines, surcharges,
8005replacement trap tag fees, trap retrieval fees, incidental take
8006endorsement fees, and equitable rent, if any, must be deposited
8007in the Marine Resources Conservation Trust Fund. Up to 50
8008percent of the revenues generated under this section may be used
8009for operation and administration of the stone crab trap
8010limitation program. All remaining revenues so generated must be
8011used for trap retrieval, management of the stone crab fishery,
8012public education activities, evaluation of the impact of trap
8013reductions on the stone crab fishery, and enforcement activities
8014in support of the stone crab trap limitation program.
8015     (f)  Program to be self-supporting.--The stone crab trap
8016limitation program is intended to be a self-supporting program
8017funded from proceeds generated under this section.
8018     (g)  No vested rights.--The stone crab trap limitation
8019program does not create any vested rights for endorsement or
8020certificateholders and may be altered or terminated by the
8021commission as necessary to protect the stone crab resource, the
8022participants in the fishery, or the public interest.
8023     (2)  PENALTIES.--For purposes of this subsection,
8024conviction is any disposition other than acquittal or dismissal,
8025regardless of whether the violation was adjudicated under any
8026state or federal law.
8027     (a)  It is unlawful to violate commission rules regulating
8028stone crab trap certificates and trap tags. No person may use an
8029expired tag or a stone crab trap tag not issued by the
8030commission or possess or use a stone crab trap in or on state
8031waters or adjacent federal waters without having a trap tag
8032required by the commission firmly attached thereto.
8033     1.  In addition to any other penalties provided in s.
8034379.407 370.021, for any commercial harvester who violates this
8035paragraph, the following administrative penalties apply.
8036     a.  For a first violation, the commission shall assess an
8037administrative penalty of up to $1,000.
8038     b.  For a second violation that occurs within 24 months of
8039any previous such violation, the commission shall assess an
8040administrative penalty of up to $2,000 and the stone crab
8041endorsement under which the violation was committed may be
8042suspended for 12 calendar months.
8043     c.  For a third violation that occurs within 36 months of
8044any previous two such violations, the commission shall assess an
8045administrative penalty of up to $5,000 and the stone crab
8046endorsement under which the violation was committed may be
8047suspended for 24 calendar months.
8048     d.  A fourth violation that occurs within 48 months of any
8049three previous such violations, shall result in permanent
8050revocation of all of the violator's saltwater fishing
8051privileges, including having the commission proceed against the
8052endorsement holder's saltwater products license in accordance
8053with s. 379.407 370.021.
8054     2.  Any other person who violates the provisions of this
8055paragraph commits a Level Two violation under s. 379.401 372.83.
8056
8057Any commercial harvester assessed an administrative penalty
8058under this paragraph shall, within 30 calendar days after
8059notification, pay the administrative penalty to the commission,
8060or request an administrative hearing under ss. 120.569 and
8061120.57. The proceeds of all administrative penalties collected
8062under this paragraph shall be deposited in the Marine Resources
8063Conservation Trust Fund.
8064     (b)  It is unlawful for any commercial harvester to remove
8065the contents of another harvester's stone crab trap or take
8066possession of such without the express written consent of the
8067trap owner available for immediate inspection. Unauthorized
8068possession of another's trap gear or removal of trap contents
8069constitutes theft.
8070     1.  Any commercial harvester convicted of theft of or from
8071a trap pursuant to this subsection or s. 379.402 370.1107 shall,
8072in addition to the penalties specified in s. 379.407 370.021 and
8073the provisions of this section, permanently lose all saltwater
8074fishing privileges, including saltwater products licenses, stone
8075crab or incidental take endorsements, and all trap certificates
8076allotted to such commercial harvester by the commission. In such
8077cases, trap certificates and endorsements are nontransferable.
8078     2.  In addition, any commercial harvester convicted of
8079violating the prohibitions referenced in this paragraph shall
8080also be assessed an administrative penalty of up to $5,000.
8081Immediately upon receiving a citation for a violation involving
8082theft of or from a trap and until adjudicated for such a
8083violation, or, upon receipt of a judicial disposition other than
8084dismissal or acquittal on such a violation, the violator is
8085prohibited from transferring any stone crab or spiny lobster
8086certificates.
8087     3.  Any other person who violates the provisions of this
8088paragraph commits a Level Two violation under s. 379.401 372.83.
8089     (c)1.  It is unlawful to violate commission rules that
8090prohibit any of the following:
8091     a.  The willful molestation of any stone crab trap, line,
8092or buoy that is the property of any licenseholder, without the
8093permission of that licenseholder.
8094     b.  The bartering, trading, or sale, or conspiring or
8095aiding in such barter, trade, or sale, or supplying, agreeing to
8096supply, aiding in supplying, or giving away stone crab trap tags
8097or certificates unless the action is duly authorized by the
8098commission as provided by commission rules.
8099     c.  The making, altering, forging, counterfeiting, or
8100reproducing of stone crab trap tags.
8101     d.  Possession of forged, counterfeit, or imitation stone
8102crab trap tags.
8103     e.  Engaging in the commercial harvest of stone crabs
8104during the time either of the endorsements is under suspension
8105or revocation.
8106     2.  Any commercial harvester who violates this paragraph
8107commits a felony of the third degree, punishable as provided in
8108s. 775.082, s. 775.083, or s. 775.084.
8109     3.  Any other person who violates this paragraph commits a
8110Level Four violation under s. 379.401 372.83.
8111
8112In addition, any commercial harvester convicted of violating
8113this paragraph shall also be assessed an administrative penalty
8114of up to $5,000, and the incidental take endorsement and/or the
8115stone crab endorsement under which the violation was committed
8116may be suspended for up to 24 calendar months. Immediately upon
8117receiving a citation involving a violation of this paragraph and
8118until adjudicated for such a violation, or if convicted of such
8119a violation, the person, firm, or corporation committing the
8120violation is prohibited from transferring any stone crab
8121certificates or endorsements.
8122     (d)  For any commercial harvester convicted of fraudulently
8123reporting the actual value of transferred stone crab
8124certificates, the commission may automatically suspend or
8125permanently revoke the seller's or the purchaser's stone crab
8126endorsements. If the endorsement is permanently revoked, the
8127commission shall also permanently deactivate the endorsement
8128holder's stone crab certificate accounts. Whether an endorsement
8129is suspended or revoked, the commission may also levy a fine
8130against the holder of the endorsement of up to twice the
8131appropriate surcharge to be paid based on the fair market value
8132of the transferred certificates.
8133     (e)  During any period of suspension or revocation of an
8134endorsement holder's endorsement, he or she shall remove all
8135traps subject to that endorsement from the water within 15 days
8136after notice provided by the commission. Failure to do so will
8137extend the period of suspension or revocation for an additional
81386 calendar months.
8139     (f)  An endorsement will not be renewed until all fees and
8140administrative penalties imposed under this section are paid.
8141     (3)  DEPREDATION PERMITS.--The Fish and Wildlife
8142Conservation Commission shall issue a depredation permit upon
8143request to any marine aquaculture producer, as defined in s.
8144379.2523 370.26, engaged in the culture of shellfish, which
8145shall entitle the aquaculture producer to possess and use up to
814675 stone crab traps and up to 75 blue crab traps for the sole
8147purpose of taking destructive or nuisance stone crabs or blue
8148crabs within 1 mile of the producer's aquaculture shellfish
8149beds. Stone crabs or blue crabs taken under this subsection may
8150not be sold, bartered, exchanged, or offered for sale, barter,
8151or exchange.
8152     (4)  For the 2006-2007 fiscal year only, the trap tag fees
8153required by this section shall be waived by the commission. This
8154subsection expires July 1, 2007.
8155     Section 152.  Section 370.135, Florida Statutes, is
8156renumbered as section 379.366, Florida Statutes, and amended to
8157read:
8158     379.366 370.135  Blue crab; regulation.--
8159     (1)  No commercial harvester shall transport on the water,
8160fish with or cause to be fished with, set, or place any trap
8161designed for taking blue crabs unless such commercial harvester
8162holds a valid saltwater products license and restricted species
8163endorsement issued under s. 379.361 370.06 and a blue crab
8164endorsement issued under this section. Each trap shall have the
8165harvester's blue crab endorsement number permanently affixed to
8166it. Each buoy attached to such a trap shall also have the
8167harvester's blue crab endorsement number permanently attached to
8168the buoy. The blue crab endorsement number shall be affixed in
8169legible figures at least 2 inches high on each buoy used. The
8170saltwater products license must be on board the boat, and both
8171the license and the crabs shall be subject to inspection at all
8172times. This subsection shall not apply to an individual fishing
8173with no more than five traps.
8174     (2)  No person shall harvest blue crabs with more than five
8175traps, harvest blue crabs in commercial quantities, or sell blue
8176crabs unless such person holds a valid saltwater products
8177license with a restricted species endorsement issued under s.
8178379.361 370.06 and a blue crab endorsement issued under this
8179section.
8180     (a)  In the event of the death or disability of a person
8181holding an active blue crab endorsement, the endorsement may be
8182transferred by the person to a member of his or her immediate
8183family or may be renewed by any person so designated by the
8184executor of the person's estate.
8185     (b)  A commercial harvester who holds a saltwater products
8186license and a blue crab endorsement that is issued to the
8187commercial harvester's vessel registration number and who
8188replaces an existing vessel with a new vessel may transfer the
8189existing blue crab endorsement to the saltwater products license
8190of the new vessel.
8191     (3)(a)  Endorsement fees.--
8192     1.  The fee for a hard-shell blue crab endorsement for the
8193taking of hard-shell blue crabs, as authorized by rule of the
8194commission, is $125, $25 of which must be used solely for the
8195trap retrieval program authorized under s. 379.2424 370.143 and
8196in commission rules.
8197     2.  The fee for a soft-shell blue crab endorsement for the
8198taking of soft-shell blue crabs, as authorized by rule of the
8199commission, is $250, $25 of which must be used solely for the
8200trap retrieval program authorized under s. 379.2424 370.143 and
8201in commission rules.
8202     3.  The fee for a nontransferable hard-shell blue crab
8203endorsement for the taking of hard-shell blue crabs, as
8204authorized by rule of the commission, is $125, $25 of which must
8205be used solely for the trap retrieval program authorized under
8206s. 379.2424 370.143 and in commission rules.
8207     4.  The fee for an incidental take blue crab endorsement
8208for the taking of blue crabs as bycatch in shrimp trawls and
8209stone crab traps is $25, as authorized in commission rules.
8210     (b)  Trap tag fees.--The annual fee for each trap tag
8211issued by the commission under the requirements of the blue crab
8212effort management program established by rule of the commission
8213is 50 cents per tag. The fee for replacement tags for lost or
8214damaged tags is 50 cents per tag plus the cost of shipping. In
8215the event of a major natural disaster, such as a hurricane or
8216major storm, that causes massive trap losses within an area
8217declared by the Governor to be a disaster emergency area, the
8218commission may temporarily defer or waive replacement tag fees.
8219     (c)  Equitable rent.--The commission may establish by rule
8220an amount of equitable rent that may be recovered as partial
8221compensation to the state for the enhanced access to its natural
8222resources. In determining whether to establish such a rent and
8223the amount thereof, the commission may consider the amount of
8224revenues annually generated by endorsement fees, trap tag fees,
8225replacement trap tag fees, trap retrieval fees, and the
8226continued economic viability of the commercial blue crab
8227industry. A rule establishing an amount of equitable rent shall
8228become effective only upon approval by act of the Legislature.
8229     (d)  Disposition of moneys generated from fees and
8230administrative penalties.--Moneys generated from the sale of
8231blue crab endorsements, trap tags, and replacement trap tags or
8232from the assessment of administrative penalties by the
8233commission under this section shall be deposited into the Marine
8234Resources Conservation Trust Fund. Up to 50 percent of the
8235moneys generated from the sale of endorsements and trap tags and
8236the assessment of administrative penalties may be used for the
8237operation and administration of the blue crab effort management
8238program. The remaining moneys generated from the sale of
8239endorsements and trap tags and the assessment of administrative
8240penalties may be used for trap retrieval; management of the blue
8241crab fishery; and public education activities, research, and
8242enforcement activities in support of the blue crab effort
8243management program.
8244     (e)  Waiver of fees.--For the 2007-2008 license year, the
8245commission shall waive all fees under this subsection for all
8246persons who qualify by September 30, 2007, to participate in the
8247blue crab effort management program established by commission
8248rule.
8249     (4)(a)  Untagged trap penalties.--By July 1, 2008, the
8250commission shall adopt by rule the administrative penalties
8251authorized by this subsection. In addition to any other
8252penalties provided in s. 379.407 370.021 for any blue crab
8253endorsement holder who violates commission rules requiring the
8254placement of trap tags for traps used for the directed harvest
8255of blue crabs, the following administrative penalties apply:
8256     1.  For a first violation, the commission shall assess an
8257administrative penalty of up to $1,000.
8258     2.  For a second violation that occurs within 24 months
8259after any previous such violation, the commission shall assess
8260an administrative penalty of up to $2,000, and the blue crab
8261endorsement holder's blue crab fishing privileges may be
8262suspended for 12 calendar months.
8263     3.  For a third violation that occurs within 36 months
8264after any two previous such violations, the commission shall
8265assess an administrative penalty of up to $5,000, and the blue
8266crab endorsement holder's blue crab fishing privileges may be
8267suspended for 24 calendar months.
8268     4.  A fourth violation that occurs within 48 months after
8269any three previous such violations shall result in permanent
8270revocation of all of the violator's saltwater fishing
8271privileges, including having the commission proceed against the
8272endorsement holder's saltwater products license in accordance
8273with s. 379.407 370.021.
8274
8275Any blue crab endorsement holder assessed an administrative
8276penalty under this paragraph shall, within 30 calendar days
8277after notification, pay the administrative penalty to the
8278commission or request an administrative hearing under ss.
8279120.569 and 120.57.
8280     (b)  Trap theft; prohibitions and penalties.--It is
8281unlawful for any person to remove or take possession of the
8282contents of another harvester's blue crab trap without the
8283express written consent of the trap owner, which must be
8284available for immediate inspection. Unauthorized possession of
8285another harvester's blue crab trap gear or removal of trap
8286contents constitutes theft.
8287     1.  Any commercial harvester receiving a judicial
8288disposition other than dismissal or acquittal on a charge of
8289theft of or from a trap as prohibited by this paragraph shall,
8290in addition to the penalties specified in s. 379.407 370.021 and
8291this section, permanently lose all saltwater fishing privileges,
8292including any saltwater products licenses, blue crab
8293endorsements, and blue crab trap tags allotted to him or her by
8294the commission. In such cases, endorsements are nontransferable.
8295     2.  In addition, any commercial harvester receiving a
8296judicial disposition other than dismissal or acquittal for
8297violating this paragraph shall also be assessed an
8298administrative penalty of up to $5,000. Immediately upon receipt
8299of a citation for a violation involving theft of or from a trap
8300and until adjudicated for such a violation, or upon receipt of a
8301judicial disposition other than dismissal or acquittal for such
8302a violation, the commercial harvester committing the violation
8303is prohibited from transferring any blue crab endorsements.
8304     3.  A commercial harvester who violates this paragraph
8305shall be punished under s. 379.407 370.021. Any other person who
8306violates this paragraph commits a Level Two violation under s.
8307379.401 372.83.
8308     (c)  Criminal activities prohibited.--
8309     1.  It is unlawful for any commercial harvester or any
8310other person to:
8311     a.  Willfully molest any blue crab trap, line, or buoy that
8312is the property of any licenseholder without the permission of
8313that licenseholder.
8314     b.  Barter, trade, lease, or sell a blue crab trap tag or
8315conspire or aid in such barter, trade, lease, or sale unless
8316duly authorized by commission rules.
8317     c.  Supply, agree to supply, aid in supplying, or give away
8318a blue crab trap tag unless duly authorized by commission rules.
8319     d.  Make, alter, forge, counterfeit, or reproduce a blue
8320crab trap tag.
8321     e.  Possess an altered, forged, counterfeit, or imitation
8322blue crab trap tag.
8323     f.  Possess a number of original trap tags or replacement
8324trap tags, the sum of which exceeds by 1 percent the number of
8325traps allowed by commission rules.
8326     g.  Engage in the commercial harvest of blue crabs while
8327the blue crab endorsements of the licenseholder are under
8328suspension or revocation.
8329     2.  Immediately upon receiving a citation involving a
8330violation of this paragraph and until adjudicated for such a
8331violation, a commercial harvester is prohibited from
8332transferring any blue crab endorsement.
8333     3.  A commercial harvester convicted of violating this
8334paragraph commits a felony of the third degree, punishable as
8335provided in s. 775.082, s. 775.083, or s. 775.084, shall also be
8336assessed an administrative penalty of up to $5,000, and is
8337immediately prohibited from transferring any blue crab
8338endorsement. All blue crab endorsements issued to a commercial
8339harvester convicted of violating this paragraph may be suspended
8340for up to 24 calendar months.
8341     4.  Any other person convicted of violating this paragraph
8342commits a Level Four violation under s. 379.401 372.83.
8343     (d)  Endorsement transfers; fraudulent reports;
8344penalties.--For a commercial harvester convicted of fraudulently
8345reporting the actual value of transferred blue crab
8346endorsements, the commission may automatically suspend or
8347permanently revoke the seller's or the purchaser's blue crab
8348endorsements. If the endorsement is permanently revoked, the
8349commission shall also permanently deactivate the endorsement
8350holder's blue crab trap tag accounts.
8351     (e)  Prohibitions during endorsement suspension and
8352revocation.--During any period of suspension or after revocation
8353of a blue crab endorsement holder's endorsements, he or she
8354shall, within 15 days after notice provided by the commission,
8355remove from the water all traps subject to that endorsement.
8356Failure to do so shall extend the period of suspension for an
8357additional 6 calendar months.
8358     (5)  For purposes of this section, a conviction is any
8359disposition other than acquittal or dismissal.
8360     (6)  A blue crab endorsement may not be renewed until all
8361fees and administrative penalties imposed under this section are
8362paid.
8363     (7)  Subsections (3), (4), (5), and (6) shall expire on
8364July 1, 2009, unless reenacted by the Legislature during the
83652009 Regular Session.
8366     Section 153.  Section 370.14, Florida Statutes, is
8367renumbered as section 379.367, Florida Statutes, and amended to
8368read:
8369     379.367 370.14  Spiny lobster; regulation.--
8370     (1)  It is the intent of the Legislature to maintain the
8371spiny lobster industry for the economy of the state and to
8372conserve the stocks supplying this industry. The provisions of
8373this act regulating the taking of spiny lobster are for the
8374purposes of ensuring and maintaining the highest possible
8375production of spiny lobster.
8376     (2)(a)1.  Each commercial harvester taking or attempting to
8377take spiny lobster with a trap in commercial quantities or for
8378commercial purposes shall obtain and exhibit a spiny lobster
8379endorsement number, as required by the Fish and Wildlife
8380Conservation Commission. The annual fee for a spiny lobster
8381endorsement is $125. This endorsement may be issued by the
8382commission upon the receipt of application by the commercial
8383harvester when accompanied by the payment of the fee. The design
8384of the applications and of the trap tag shall be determined by
8385the commission. Any trap or device used in taking or attempting
8386to take spiny lobster, other than a trap with the endorsement
8387number, shall be seized and destroyed by the commission. The
8388proceeds of the fees imposed by this paragraph shall be
8389deposited and used as provided in paragraph (b). The commission
8390may adopt rules to carry out the intent of this section.
8391     2.  Each commercial harvester taking or attempting to take
8392spiny lobster in commercial quantities or for commercial
8393purposes by any method, other than with a trap having a spiny
8394lobster endorsement number issued by the commission, must pay an
8395annual fee of $100.
8396     (b)  Twenty-five dollars of the $125 fee for a spiny
8397lobster endorsement required under subparagraph (a)1. must be
8398used only for trap retrieval as provided in s. 379.2424 370.143.
8399The remainder of the fees collected under paragraph (a) shall be
8400deposited as follows:
8401     1.  Fifty percent of the fees collected shall be deposited
8402in the Marine Resources Conservation Trust Fund for use in
8403enforcing the provisions of paragraph (a) through aerial and
8404other surveillance and trap retrieval.
8405     2.  Fifty percent of the fees collected shall be deposited
8406as provided in s. 379.3671(5) 370.142(5).
8407     (3)  The spiny lobster endorsement must be on board the
8408boat, and both the endorsement and the harvested spiny lobster
8409shall be subject to inspection at all times. Only one
8410endorsement shall be issued for each boat. The spiny lobster
8411endorsement number must be prominently displayed above the
8412topmost portion of the boat so as to be easily and readily
8413identified.
8414     (4)(a)  It is unlawful for any person willfully to molest
8415any spiny lobster traps, lines, or buoys belonging to another
8416without permission of the licenseholder.
8417     (b)  A commercial harvester who violates this subsection
8418commits a felony of the third degree, punishable as provided in
8419s. 775.082 or s. 775.083. Any other person who violates this
8420subsection commits a Level Four violation under s. 379.401
8421372.83.
8422     (5)  Any spiny lobster licenseholder, upon selling licensed
8423spiny lobster traps, shall furnish the commission notice of such
8424sale of all or part of his or her interest within 15 days
8425thereof. Any holder of said license shall also notify the
8426commission within 15 days if his or her address no longer
8427conforms to the address appearing on the license and shall, as a
8428part of such notification, furnish the commission with his or
8429her new address.
8430     (6)(a)  By a special permit granted by the commission, a
8431Florida-licensed seafood dealer may lawfully import, process,
8432and package spiny lobster or uncooked tails of the species
8433Panulirus argus during the closed season. However, spiny lobster
8434landed under special permit shall not be sold in the state.
8435     (b)  The licensed seafood dealer importing any such spiny
8436lobster under the permit shall, 12 hours prior to the time the
8437seagoing vessel or airplane delivering such imported spiny
8438lobster enters the state, notify the commission as to the
8439seagoing vessel's name or the airplane's registration number and
8440its captain, location, and point of destination.
8441     (c)  At the time the spiny lobster cargo is delivered to
8442the permitholder's place of business, the spiny lobster cargo
8443shall be weighed and shall be available for inspection by the
8444commission. A signed receipt of such quantity in pounds shall be
8445forwarded to the commission within 48 hours after shipment
8446weigh-in completion. If requested by the commission, the weigh-
8447in process will be delayed up to 4 hours to allow for a
8448commission representative to be present during the process.
8449     (d)  Within 48 hours after shipment weigh-in completion,
8450the permitholder shall submit to the commission, on forms
8451provided by the commission, a sworn report of the quantity in
8452pounds of the spiny lobster received, which report shall include
8453the location of said spiny lobster and a sworn statement that
8454said spiny lobster were taken at least 50 miles from Florida's
8455shoreline. The landing of spiny lobster or spiny lobster tails
8456from which the eggs, swimmerettes, or pleopods have been
8457removed; the falsification of information as to area from which
8458spiny lobster were obtained; or the failure to file the report
8459called for in this section shall be grounds to revoke the
8460permit.
8461     (e)  Each permitholder shall keep throughout the period of
8462the closed season copies of the bill of sale or invoices
8463covering each transaction involving spiny lobster imported under
8464this permit. Such invoices and bills shall be kept available at
8465all times for inspection by the commission.
8466     (7)(a)  A Florida-licensed seafood dealer may obtain a
8467special permit to import, process, and package uncooked tails of
8468spiny lobster upon the payment of the sum of $100 to the
8469commission.
8470     (b)  A special permit must be obtained by any airplane or
8471seagoing vessel other than a common carrier used to transport
8472spiny lobster or spiny lobster tails for purchase by licensed
8473seafood dealers for purposes as provided herein upon the payment
8474of $50.
8475     (c)  All special permits issued under this subsection are
8476nontransferable.
8477     (8)  No common carrier or employee of said carrier may
8478carry, knowingly receive for carriage, or permit the carriage of
8479any spiny lobster of the species Panulirus argus, regardless of
8480where taken, during the closed season, except of the species
8481Panulirus argus lawfully imported from a foreign country for
8482reshipment outside of the territorial limits of the state under
8483United States Customs bond or in accordance with paragraph
8484(7)(a).
8485     Section 154.  Section 370.142, Florida Statutes, is
8486renumbered as section 379.3671, Florida Statutes, and amended to
8487read:
8488     379.3671 370.142  Spiny lobster trap certificate program.--
8489     (1)  INTENT.--Due to rapid growth, the spiny lobster
8490fishery is experiencing increased congestion and conflict on the
8491water, excessive mortality of undersized lobsters, a declining
8492yield per trap, and public concern over petroleum and debris
8493pollution from existing traps. In an effort to solve these and
8494related problems, the Legislature intends to develop pursuant to
8495the provisions of this section a spiny lobster trap certificate
8496program, the principal goal of which is to stabilize the fishery
8497by reducing the total number of traps, which should increase the
8498yield per trap and therefore maintain or increase overall catch
8499levels. The Legislature seeks to preserve as much flexibility in
8500the program as possible for the fishery's various constituents
8501and ensure that any reduction in total trap numbers will be
8502proportioned equally on a percentage basis among all users of
8503traps in the fishery.
8504     (2)  TRANSFERABLE TRAP CERTIFICATES; TRAP TAGS; FEES;
8505PENALTIES.--The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission shall
8506establish a trap certificate program for the spiny lobster
8507fishery of this state and shall be responsible for its
8508administration and enforcement as follows:
8509     (a)  Transferable trap certificates.--Each holder of a
8510saltwater products license who uses traps for taking or
8511attempting to take spiny lobsters shall be required to have a
8512certificate on record for each trap possessed or used therefor,
8513except as otherwise provided in this section.
8514     1.  Trap certificates are transferable on a market basis
8515and may be transferred from one licenseholder to another for a
8516fair market value agreed upon between the transferor and
8517transferee. Each such transfer shall, within 72 hours thereof,
8518be recorded on a notarized form provided for that purpose by the
8519Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and hand delivered or
8520sent by certified mail, return receipt requested, to the
8521commission for recordkeeping purposes. In order to cover the
8522added administrative costs of the program and to recover an
8523equitable natural resource rent for the people of the state, a
8524transfer fee of $2 per certificate transferred shall be assessed
8525against the purchasing licenseholder and sent by money order or
8526cashier's check with the certificate transfer form. Also, in
8527addition to the transfer fee, a surcharge of $5 per certificate
8528transferred or 25 percent of the actual market value, whichever
8529is greater, given to the transferor shall be assessed the first
8530time a certificate is transferred outside the original
8531transferor's immediate family. No transfer of a certificate
8532shall be effective until the commission receives the notarized
8533transfer form and the transfer fee, including any surcharge, is
8534paid. The commission may establish by rule an amount of
8535equitable rent per trap certificate that shall be recovered as
8536partial compensation to the state for the enhanced access to its
8537natural resources. A rule establishing an amount of equitable
8538rent shall become effective only after approval by the
8539Legislature. In determining whether to establish such a rent
8540and, if so, the amount thereof, the commission shall consider
8541the amount of revenues annually generated by certificate fees,
8542transfer fees, surcharges, trap license fees, and sales taxes,
8543the demonstrated fair market value of transferred certificates,
8544and the continued economic viability of the commercial lobster
8545industry. All proceeds of equitable rent recovered shall be
8546deposited in the Marine Resources Conservation Trust Fund and
8547used by the commission for research, management, and protection
8548of the spiny lobster fishery and habitat. A transfer fee may not
8549be assessed or required when the transfer is within a family as
8550a result of the death or disability of the certificate owner. A
8551surcharge will not be assessed for any transfer within an
8552individual's immediate family.
8553     2.  No person, firm, corporation, or other business entity
8554may control, directly or indirectly, more than 1.5 percent of
8555the total available certificates in any license year.
8556     3.  The commission shall maintain records of all
8557certificates and their transfers and shall annually provide each
8558licenseholder with a statement of certificates held.
8559     4.  The number of trap tags issued annually to each
8560licenseholder shall not exceed the number of certificates held
8561by the licenseholder at the time of issuance, and such tags and
8562a statement of certificates held shall be issued simultaneously.
8563     5.  It is unlawful for any person to lease spiny lobster
8564trap tags or certificates.
8565     (b)  Trap tags.--Each trap used to take or attempt to take
8566spiny lobsters in state waters or adjacent federal waters shall,
8567in addition to the spiny lobster endorsement number required by
8568s. 379.367(2) 370.14(2), have affixed thereto an annual trap tag
8569issued by the commission. Each such tag shall be made of durable
8570plastic or similar material and shall, based on the number of
8571certificates held, have stamped thereon the owner's license
8572number. To facilitate enforcement and recordkeeping, such tags
8573shall be issued each year in a color different from that of each
8574of the previous 3 years. The annual certificate fee shall be $1
8575per certificate. Replacement tags for lost or damaged tags may
8576be obtained as provided by rule of the commission. In the event
8577of a major natural disaster, such as a hurricane or major storm,
8578that causes massive trap losses within an area declared by the
8579Governor to be a disaster emergency area, the commission may
8580temporarily defer or waive replacement tag fees.
8581     (c)  Prohibitions; penalties.--
8582     1.  It is unlawful for a person to possess or use a spiny
8583lobster trap in or on state waters or adjacent federal waters
8584without having affixed thereto the trap tag required by this
8585section. It is unlawful for a person to possess or use any other
8586gear or device designed to attract and enclose or otherwise aid
8587in the taking of spiny lobster by trapping that is not a trap as
8588defined by commission rule.
8589     2.  It is unlawful for a person to possess or use spiny
8590lobster trap tags without having the necessary number of
8591certificates on record as required by this section.
8592     3.  It is unlawful for any person to willfully molest, take
8593possession of, or remove the contents of another harvester's
8594spiny lobster trap without the express written consent of the
8595trap owner available for immediate inspection. Unauthorized
8596possession of another's trap gear or removal of trap contents
8597constitutes theft.
8598     a.  A commercial harvester who violates this subparagraph
8599shall be punished under ss. 379.367 and 379.407 370.021 and
8600370.14. Any commercial harvester receiving a judicial
8601disposition other than dismissal or acquittal on a charge of
8602theft of or from a trap pursuant to this subparagraph or s.
8603379.402 370.1107 shall, in addition to the penalties specified
8604in ss. 379.367 and 379.407 370.021 and 370.14 and the provisions
8605of this section, permanently lose all his or her saltwater
8606fishing privileges, including his or her saltwater products
8607license, spiny lobster endorsement, and all trap certificates
8608allotted to him or her through this program. In such cases, trap
8609certificates and endorsements are nontransferable.
8610     b.  Any commercial harvester receiving a judicial
8611disposition other than dismissal or acquittal on a charge of
8612willful molestation of a trap, in addition to the penalties
8613specified in ss. 379.367 and 379.407 370.021 and 370.14, shall
8614lose all saltwater fishing privileges for a period of 24
8615calendar months.
8616     c.  In addition, any commercial harvester charged with
8617violating this subparagraph and receiving a judicial disposition
8618other than dismissal or acquittal for violating this
8619subparagraph or s. 379.402 370.1107 shall also be assessed an
8620administrative penalty of up to $5,000.
8621
8622Immediately upon receiving a citation for a violation involving
8623theft of or from a trap, or molestation of a trap, and until
8624adjudicated for such a violation or, upon receipt of a judicial
8625disposition other than dismissal or acquittal of such a
8626violation, the commercial harvester committing the violation is
8627prohibited from transferring any spiny lobster trap certificates
8628and endorsements.
8629     4.  In addition to any other penalties provided in s.
8630379.407 370.021, a commercial harvester who violates the
8631provisions of this section or commission rules relating to spiny
8632lobster traps shall be punished as follows:
8633     a.  If the first violation is for violation of subparagraph
86341. or subparagraph 2., the commission shall assess an additional
8635administrative penalty of up to $1,000. For all other first
8636violations, the commission shall assess an additional
8637administrative penalty of up to $500.
8638     b.  For a second violation of subparagraph 1. or
8639subparagraph 2. which occurs within 24 months of any previous
8640such violation, the commission shall assess an additional
8641administrative penalty of up to $2,000 and the spiny lobster
8642endorsement issued under s. 379.367(2) or (6) 370.14(2) or (6)
8643may be suspended for the remainder of the current license year.
8644     c.  For a third or subsequent violation of subparagraph 1.,
8645subparagraph 2., or subparagraph 3. which occurs within 36
8646months of any previous two such violations, the commission shall
8647assess an additional administrative penalty of up to $5,000 and
8648may suspend the spiny lobster endorsement issued under s.
8649379.367(2) or (6) 370.14(2) or (6) for a period of up to 24
8650months or may revoke the spiny lobster endorsement and, if
8651revoking the spiny lobster endorsement, may also proceed against
8652the licenseholder's saltwater products license in accordance
8653with the provisions of s. 379.407(2)(h) 370.021(2)(h).
8654     d.  Any person assessed an additional administrative
8655penalty pursuant to this section shall within 30 calendar days
8656after notification:
8657     (I)  Pay the administrative penalty to the commission; or
8658     (II)  Request an administrative hearing pursuant to the
8659provisions of ss. 120.569 and 120.57.
8660     e.  The commission shall suspend the spiny lobster
8661endorsement issued under s. 379.367(2) or (6) 370.14(2) or (6)
8662for any person failing to comply with the provisions of sub-
8663subparagraph d.
8664     5.a.  It is unlawful for any person to make, alter, forge,
8665counterfeit, or reproduce a spiny lobster trap tag or
8666certificate.
8667     b.  It is unlawful for any person to knowingly have in his
8668or her possession a forged, counterfeit, or imitation spiny
8669lobster trap tag or certificate.
8670     c.  It is unlawful for any person to barter, trade, sell,
8671supply, agree to supply, aid in supplying, or give away a spiny
8672lobster trap tag or certificate or to conspire to barter, trade,
8673sell, supply, aid in supplying, or give away a spiny lobster
8674trap tag or certificate unless such action is duly authorized by
8675the commission as provided in this chapter or in the rules of
8676the commission.
8677     6.a.  Any commercial harvester who violates the provisions
8678of subparagraph 5., or any commercial harvester who engages in
8679the commercial harvest, trapping, or possession of spiny lobster
8680without a spiny lobster endorsement as required by s. 379.367(2)
8681or (6) 370.14(2) or (6) or during any period while such spiny
8682lobster endorsement is under suspension or revocation, commits a
8683felony of the third degree, punishable as provided in s.
8684775.082, s. 775.083, or s. 775.084.
8685     b.  In addition to any penalty imposed pursuant to sub-
8686subparagraph a., the commission shall levy a fine of up to twice
8687the amount of the appropriate surcharge to be paid on the fair
8688market value of the transferred certificates, as provided in
8689subparagraph (a)1., on any commercial harvester who violates the
8690provisions of sub-subparagraph 5.c.
8691     c.  In addition to any penalty imposed pursuant to sub-
8692subparagraph a., any commercial harvester receiving any judicial
8693disposition other than acquittal or dismissal for a violation of
8694subparagraph 5. shall be assessed an administrative penalty of
8695up to $5,000, and the spiny lobster endorsement under which the
8696violation was committed may be suspended for up to 24 calendar
8697months. Immediately upon issuance of a citation involving a
8698violation of subparagraph 5. and until adjudication of such a
8699violation, and after receipt of any judicial disposition other
8700than acquittal or dismissal for such a violation, the commercial
8701harvester holding the spiny lobster endorsement listed on the
8702citation is prohibited from transferring any spiny lobster trap
8703certificates.
8704     d.  Any other person who violates the provisions of
8705subparagraph 5. commits a Level Four violation under s. 379.401
8706372.83.
8707     7.  Any certificates for which the annual certificate fee
8708is not paid for a period of 3 years shall be considered
8709abandoned and shall revert to the commission. During any period
8710of trap reduction, any certificates reverting to the commission
8711shall become permanently unavailable and be considered in that
8712amount to be reduced during the next license-year period.
8713Otherwise, any certificates that revert to the commission are to
8714be reallotted in such manner as provided by the commission.
8715     8.  The proceeds of all administrative penalties collected
8716pursuant to subparagraph 4. and all fines collected pursuant to
8717sub-subparagraph 6.b. shall be deposited into the Marine
8718Resources Conservation Trust Fund.
8719     9.  All traps shall be removed from the water during any
8720period of suspension or revocation.
8721     10.  Except as otherwise provided, any person who violates
8722this paragraph commits a Level Two violation under s. 379.401
8723372.83.
8724     (d)  No vested rights.--The trap certificate program shall
8725not create vested rights in licenseholders whatsoever and may be
8726altered or terminated as necessary to protect the spiny lobster
8727resource, the participants in the fishery, or the public
8728interest.
8729     (3)  TRAP REDUCTION.--The objective of the overall trap
8730certificate program is to reduce the number of traps used in the
8731spiny lobster fishery to the lowest number that will maintain or
8732increase overall catch levels, promote economic efficiency in
8733the fishery, and conserve natural resources. Therefore, the
8734Marine Fisheries Commission shall set an overall trap reduction
8735goal based on maintaining or maximizing a sustained harvest from
8736the spiny lobster fishery. To reach that goal, the Marine
8737Fisheries Commission shall, by July 1, 1992, set an annual trap
8738reduction schedule, not to exceed 10 percent per year,
8739applicable to all certificateholders until the overall trap
8740reduction goal is reached. All certificateholders shall have
8741their certificate holdings reduced by the same percentage of
8742certificates each year according to the trap reduction schedule.
8743Until July 1, 1999, the Department of Environmental Protection
8744shall issue the number of trap tags authorized by the Marine
8745Fisheries Commission, as requested, and a revised statement of
8746certificates held. Beginning July 1, 1999, the Fish and Wildlife
8747Conservation Commission shall annually issue the number of trap
8748tags authorized by the commission's schedule, as requested, and
8749a revised statement of certificates held. Certificateholders may
8750maintain or increase their total number of certificates held by
8751purchasing available certificates from within the authorized
8752total. The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission shall
8753provide for an annual evaluation of the trap reduction process
8754and shall suspend the annual percentage reductions for any
8755period deemed necessary by the commission in order to assess the
8756impact of the trap reduction schedule on the fishery. The Fish
8757and Wildlife Conservation Commission may then, by rule, resume,
8758terminate, or reverse the schedule as it deems necessary to
8759protect the spiny lobster resource and the participants in the
8760fishery.
8761     (4)  TRAP CERTIFICATE TECHNICAL ADVISORY AND APPEALS
8762BOARD.--There is hereby established the Trap Certificate
8763Technical Advisory and Appeals Board. Such board shall consider
8764and advise the commission on disputes and other problems arising
8765from the implementation of the spiny lobster trap certificate
8766program. The board may also provide information to the
8767commission on the operation of the trap certificate program.
8768     (a)  The board shall consist of the executive director of
8769the commission or designee and nine other members appointed by
8770the executive director, according to the following criteria:
8771     1.  All appointed members shall be certificateholders, but
8772two shall be holders of fewer than 100 certificates, two shall
8773be holders of at least 100 but no more than 750 certificates,
8774three shall be holders of more than 750 but not more than 2,000
8775certificates, and two shall be holders of more than 2,000
8776certificates.
8777     2.  At least one member each shall come from Broward, Dade,
8778and Palm Beach Counties; and five members shall come from the
8779various regions of the Florida Keys.
8780     3.  At least one appointed member shall be a person of
8781Hispanic origin capable of speaking English and Spanish.
8782     (b)  The term of each appointed member shall be for 4
8783years, and any vacancy shall be filled for the balance of the
8784unexpired term with a person of the qualifications necessary to
8785maintain the requirements of paragraph (a). There shall be no
8786limitation on successive appointments to the board.
8787     (c)  The executive director of the commission or designee
8788shall serve as a member and shall call the organizational
8789meeting of the board. The board shall annually elect a chair and
8790a vice chair. There shall be no limitation on successive terms
8791that may be served by a chair or vice chair. The board shall
8792meet at the call of its chair, at the request of a majority of
8793its membership, at the request of the commission, or at such
8794times as may be prescribed by its rules. A majority of the board
8795shall constitute a quorum, and official action of the board
8796shall require a majority vote of the total membership of the
8797board present at the meeting.
8798     (d)  The procedural rules adopted by the board shall
8799conform to the requirements of chapter 120.
8800     (e)  Members of the board shall be reimbursed for per diem
8801and travel expenses as provided in s. 112.061.
8802     (f)  Upon reaching a decision on any dispute or problem
8803brought before it, including any decision involving the
8804allotment of certificates under paragraph (g), the board shall
8805submit such decision to the executive director of the commission
8806for final approval. The executive director of the commission may
8807alter or disapprove any decision of the board, with notice
8808thereof given in writing to the board and to each party in the
8809dispute explaining the reasons for the disapproval. The action
8810of the executive director of the commission constitutes final
8811agency action.
8812     (g)  In addition to those certificates allotted pursuant to
8813the provisions of subparagraph (2)(a)1., up to 125,000
8814certificates may be allotted by the board to settle disputes or
8815other problems arising from implementation of the trap
8816certificate program during the 1992-1993 and 1993-1994 license
8817years. Any certificates not allotted by March 31, 1994, shall
8818become permanently unavailable and shall be considered as part
8819of the 1994-1995 reduction schedule. All appeals for additional
8820certificates or other disputes must be filed with the board
8821before October 1, 1993.
8822     (h)  Any trap certificates issued by the Department of
8823Environmental Protection and, effective July 1, 1999, the
8824commission as a result of the appeals process must be added to
8825the existing number of trap certificates for the purposes of
8826determining the total number of certificates from which the
8827subsequent season's trap reduction is calculated.
8828     (i)  On and after July 1, 1994, the board shall no longer
8829consider and advise the Fish and Wildlife Conservation
8830Commission on disputes and other problems arising from
8831implementation of the trap certificate program nor allot any
8832certificates with respect thereto.
8833     (5)  DISPOSITION OF FEES AND SURCHARGES.--Transfer fees and
8834surcharges, annual trap certificate fees, and recreational tag
8835fees collected pursuant to paragraphs (2)(a) and (b) shall be
8836deposited in the Marine Resources Conservation Trust Fund and
8837used for administration of the trap certificate program,
8838research and monitoring of the spiny lobster fishery, and
8839enforcement and public education activities in support of the
8840purposes of this section and shall also be for the use of the
8841Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission in evaluating the
8842impact of the trap reduction schedule on the spiny lobster
8843fishery; however, at least 15 percent of the fees and surcharges
8844collected shall be provided to the commission for such
8845evaluation.
8846     (6)  RULEMAKING AUTHORITY.--The Fish and Wildlife
8847Conservation Commission may adopt rules to implement the
8848provisions of this section.
8849     (7)  For the 2006-2007 fiscal year only, the trap tag fees
8850required by this section shall be waived by the commission. This
8851subsection expires July 1, 2007.
8852     Section 155.  Subsections (2),(3), and (4) of section
8853370.143, Florida Statutes, are renumbered as section 379.368,
8854Florida Statutes, and amended to read:
8855     379.368 370.143  Fees for the retrieval of spiny lobster,
8856stone crab, blue crab, and black sea bass traps during closed
8857season; commission authority; fees.--
8858     (1)(2)  Pursuant to s. 379.2424, the commission shall
8859assess trap owners, and collect, a retrieval fee of $10 per trap
8860retrieved shall be assessed trap owners. However, for each
8861person holding a spiny lobster endorsement, a stone crab
8862endorsement, or a blue crab endorsement issued under rule of the
8863commission, the retrieval fee shall be waived for the first five
8864traps retrieved. Traps recovered under this program shall become
8865the property of the commission or its contract agent, as
8866determined by the commission, and shall be either destroyed or
8867resold to the original owner. Revenue from retrieval fees shall
8868be deposited in the Marine Resources Conservation Trust Fund and
8869used solely for operation of the trap retrieval program.
8870     (2)(3)  Payment of all assessed retrieval fees shall be
8871required prior to renewal of the trap owner's saltwater products
8872license. Retrieval fees assessed under this program shall stand
8873in lieu of other penalties imposed for such trap violations.
8874     (3)(4)  In the event of a major natural disaster, such as a
8875hurricane or major storm, that causes massive trap losses within
8876an area declared by the Governor to be a disaster emergency
8877area, the commission shall waive trap retrieval fees.
8878     Section 156.  Section 370.1535, Florida Statutes, is
8879renumbered as section 379.369, Florida Statutes, and amended to
8880read:
8881     379.369 370.1535  Fees for Regulation of shrimp fishing in
8882Tampa Bay; licensing requirements.--
8883     (1)  No person shall operate as a dead shrimp producer in
8884any waters of Tampa Bay unless such person has procured from the
8885Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission a dead shrimp
8886production permit.
8887     (2)  The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is
8888authorized to issue a dead shrimp production permit to persons
8889qualified pursuant to the following criteria:
8890     (a)  The person has submitted an application designed by
8891the commission for such permit.
8892     (b)  One permit is required for each vessel used for dead
8893shrimp production in the waters of Tampa Bay. A permit shall
8894only be issued to an individual who is the principal owner of
8895the vessel or of the business entity owning the vessel and
8896utilizing the permit. No more than three permits shall be issued
8897to any individual.
8898     (c)  Each application for a permit to shrimp fish in the
8899waters of Tampa Bay shall be accompanied by a fee of $250 for
8900each resident of the state and $1,000 for each nonresident of
8901the state. The proceeds of the fees collected pursuant to this
8902paragraph shall be deposited into the Marine Resources
8903Conservation Trust Fund to be used by the commission for the
8904purpose of enforcement of marine resource laws.
8905     (d)  No person shall be issued a permit or be allowed to
8906renew a permit if such person is registered for noncommercial
8907trawling pursuant to s. 370.15(4).
8908     (e)  Each applicant shall make application prior to June
890930, 1992, and shall hold any other license or registration
8910required to operate a commercial fishing vessel in Tampa Bay on
8911the date of application.
8912     (3)  Each permit issued in the base year of 1992 shall be
8913renewable by June 30 in each subsequent year upon application
8914meeting the requirements for issuance for an initial permit
8915pursuant to subsection (2). The number of permits outstanding in
8916any one year shall not exceed the number issued for 1992. No
8917permit shall be transferable by any method, including devise or
8918inheritance, and a permit shall be renewable only by the initial
8919holder thereof. All permits not renewed for any reason shall
8920expire and shall not be renewable under any circumstances.
8921     (4)  No person harvesting dead shrimp from Tampa Bay shall
8922sell such shrimp to any person unless such seller is in
8923possession of a dead shrimp production permit issued pursuant to
8924this section. Except for purchases from other wholesale dealers,
8925no wholesale dealer, as defined in s. 370.07(1)(a)3., shall
8926purchase dead shrimp harvested in Tampa Bay, unless the seller
8927produces his or her dead shrimp production permit prior to the
8928sale of the shrimp.
8929     (5)  The operator of any vessel used in Tampa Bay for dead
8930shrimp production shall possess while in or on the waters of the
8931bay and produce upon the request of any duly authorized law
8932enforcement officer a current dead shrimp production permit
8933issued for the vessel pursuant to this section.
8934     (6)  Each person harvesting shrimp in Tampa Bay pursuant to
8935the permit required by this section shall comply with all rules
8936of the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission regulating such
8937harvest.
8938     (7)  For purpose of this section, "Tampa Bay" means all the
8939waters of the bay east and north of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge
8940(U.S. 19 and Interstate 275).
8941     Section 157.  Section 379.3711, Florida Statutes, is
8942created to read:
8943     379.3711  License fee for private game preserves and
8944farms.--The licensee fee for establishing, maintaining, and
8945operating a private preserve and farm pursuant to s. 379.302 is
8946$50 per year. The fee is payable to the commission and shall be
8947deposited in the State Game Trust Fund.
8948     Section 158.  Section 372.661, Florida Statutes, is
8949renumbered as section 379.3712, Florida Statutes, and amended to
8950read:
8951     379.3712 372.661  Private hunting preserve license fees;
8952exception.--
8953     (1)  Any person who operates a private hunting preserve
8954commercially or otherwise shall be required to pay a license fee
8955of $70 for each such preserve; provided, however, that during
8956the open season established for wild game of any species a
8957private individual may take artificially propagated game of such
8958species up to the bag limit prescribed for the particular
8959species without being required to pay the license fee required
8960by this section; provided further that if any such individual
8961shall charge a fee for taking such game she or he shall be
8962required to pay the license fee required by this section and to
8963comply with the rules of the commission relative to the
8964operation of private hunting preserves.
8965     (2)  A commercial hunting preserve license, which shall
8966exempt patrons of licensed preserves from the license and permit
8967requirements of s. 379.354(4)(c), (d), (f), (h), (i) and (j)
8968372.57(4)(c), (d), (f), (h), (i), and (j); (5)(g) and (h);
8969(8)(a), (b), and (e); (9)(a)2.; (11); and (12) while hunting on
8970the licensed preserve property, shall be $500. Such commercial
8971hunting preserve license shall be available only to those
8972private hunting preserves licensed pursuant to this section
8973which are operated exclusively for commercial purposes, which
8974are open to the public, and for which a uniform fee is charged
8975to patrons for hunting privileges.
8976     Section 159.  Section 372.86, Florida Statutes, is
8977renumbered as section 379.372, Florida Statutes, to read:
8978     379.372 372.86  Capturing, keeping, possessing,
8979transporting, or exhibiting venomous reptiles or reptiles of
8980concern; license required.--
8981     (1)  No person, firm, or corporation shall capture, keep,
8982possess, or exhibit any poisonous or venomous reptile or reptile
8983of concern without first having obtained a special permit or
8984license therefor from the Fish and Wildlife Conservation
8985Commission as provided in this section.
8986     (2)  By December 31, 2007, the commission shall establish a
8987list of reptiles of concern, including venomous, nonvenomous,
8988native, nonnative, or other reptiles, which require additional
8989regulation for capture, possession, transportation, or
8990exhibition due to their nature, habits, status, or potential to
8991negatively impact the environment, ecology, or humans.
8992     (3)  It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, or
8993corporation, whether licensed hereunder or not, to capture,
8994keep, possess, or exhibit any venomous reptile or reptile of
8995concern in any manner not approved as safe, secure, and proper
8996by the commission. Venomous reptiles or reptiles of concern held
8997in captivity are subject to inspection by the commission. The
8998commission shall determine whether the reptiles are securely,
8999safely, and properly penned. In the event that the reptiles are
9000not safely penned, the commission shall report the situation in
9001writing to the person, firm, or corporation owning the reptiles.
9002Failure of the person, firm, or corporation to correct the
9003situation within 30 days after such written notice shall be
9004grounds for revocation of the license or permit of the person,
9005firm, or corporation.
9006     (4)  Venomous reptiles or reptiles of concern shall be
9007transported in a safe, secure, and proper manner. The commission
9008shall establish by rule the requirements for the transportation
9009of venomous reptiles or reptiles of concern.
9010     Section 160.  Section 372.87, Florida Statutes, is
9011renumbered as 379.373, Florida Statutes, to read:
9012     379.373 372.87  License fee; renewal, revocation.--
9013     (1)(a)  The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is
9014authorized and empowered to issue a license or permit for the
9015capturing, keeping, possessing, or exhibiting of venomous
9016reptiles, upon payment of an annual fee of $100 and upon
9017assurance that all of the provisions of ss. 379.372-379.305 and
9018ss. 379.372-379.374 372.86-372.92 and such other reasonable
9019rules and regulations as the commission may prescribe will be
9020fully complied with in all respects.
9021     (b)  The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is
9022authorized and empowered to issue a license or permit for the
9023capturing, keeping, possessing, or exhibiting of reptiles of
9024concern upon payment of an annual fee not to exceed $100 and
9025upon assurance that all of the provisions of ss. 379.305,
9026379.372, 379.373, and 379.374 372.86-372.92 and such other
9027reasonable rules and regulations as the commission may prescribe
9028will be fully complied with in all respects. The annual fee for
9029issuance or renewal of a license or permit under this paragraph
9030for reptiles of concern is initially set at $100. However, the
9031commission may reduce that annual fee by rule if the commission
9032determines that there is general compliance with ss. 379.305,
9033379.372, 379.373, and 379.374 372.86-372.92 and that such
9034compliance allows for a reduction in fees to cover the costs of
9035administering and enforcing the reptiles of concern program. The
9036commission may issue a license or permit to an applicant who
9037holds a current and valid license or permit for venomous
9038reptiles under paragraph (a) and meets all requirements for the
9039capturing, keeping, possessing, or exhibiting of reptiles of
9040concern, but shall not require payment of an additional annual
9041fee.
9042     (2)  Such permits or licenses may be revoked by the
9043commission upon violation of any of the provisions of ss.
9044379.305, 379.372, 379.373, and 379.374 372.86-372.92 or upon
9045violation of any of the rules and regulations prescribed by the
9046commission relating to the capturing, keeping, possessing, and
9047exhibiting of any venomous reptiles or reptiles of concern. Such
9048permits or licenses shall be for an annual period to be
9049prescribed by the commission and shall be renewable upon the
9050payment of said fee and shall be subject to the same conditions,
9051limitations, and restrictions as set forth in this section. All
9052moneys received pursuant to this section shall be deposited into
9053the State Game Trust Fund to be used to implement, administer,
9054enforce, and educate the public regarding ss. 379.305, 379.372,
9055379.373, and 379.374 372.86-372.92.
9056     Section 161.  Section 372.88, Florida Statutes, is
9057renumbered as section 379.374, Florida Statutes, to read:
9058     379.374 372.88  Bond required, amount.--
9059     (1)  No person, party, firm, or corporation shall exhibit
9060to the public either with or without charge or admission fee any
9061venomous reptile without having first posted a good and
9062sufficient bond in writing in the penal sum of $10,000 payable
9063to the commission, conditioned that such exhibitor will
9064indemnify and save harmless all persons from injury or damage
9065from such venomous reptiles so exhibited and shall fully comply
9066with all laws of the state and all rules and regulations of the
9067commission governing the capturing, keeping, possessing, or
9068exhibiting of venomous reptiles; provided, however, that the
9069aggregate liability of the surety for all such injuries or
9070damages shall, in no event, exceed the penal sum of the bond.
9071The surety for the bond must be a surety company authorized to
9072do business under the laws of the state or in lieu of such a
9073surety, cash in the sum of $10,000 may be posted with the
9074commission to ensure compliance with the conditions of the bond.
9075     (2)  No person, party, firm, or corporation shall exhibit
9076to the public either with or without charge or admission fee,
9077any Class I wildlife, as defined in s. 379.303 372.922 and
9078commission rule chapter 68A-6, Florida Administrative Code,
9079without having first guaranteed financial responsibility, in the
9080sum of $10,000, for any liability which may be incurred in the
9081exhibition to the public of Class I wildlife. The commission
9082shall adopt, by rule, the methods of payment that satisfy the
9083financial responsibility, which may include cash, the
9084establishment of a trust fund, an irrevocable letter of credit,
9085casualty insurance, a corporate guarantee, or any combination
9086thereof, in the sum of $10,000 which shall be posted with the
9087commission. In lieu of the $10,000 financial responsibility
9088guarantee required in this subsection, the exhibiter has the
9089option to maintain comprehensive general liability insurance,
9090with minimum limits of $2 million per occurrence and $2 million
9091annual aggregate, as shall protect the exhibiter from claims for
9092damage for personal injury, including accidental death, as well
9093as claims for property damage which may arise. Proof of such
9094insurance shall be submitted to the commission.
9095     Section 162.  Section 372.6673, Florida Statutes, is
9096renumbered as section 379.3751, Florida Statutes, to read:
9097     379.3751 372.6673  Taking and possession of alligators;
9098trapping licenses; fees.--
9099     (1)(a)  No person shall take or possess any alligator or
9100the eggs thereof without having first obtained from the
9101commission a trapping license and paid the fee provided in this
9102section. Such license shall be dated when issued and remain
9103valid for 12 months after the date of issuance and shall
9104authorize the person to whom it is issued to take or possess
9105alligators and their eggs, and to sell, possess, and process
9106alligators and their hides and meat, in accordance with law and
9107commission rules. Such license shall not be transferable and
9108shall not be valid unless it bears on its face in indelible ink
9109the name of the person to whom it is issued. Such license shall
9110be in the personal possession of the licensee while such person
9111is taking alligators or their eggs or is selling, possessing, or
9112processing alligators or their eggs, hides, or meat. The failure
9113of the licensee to exhibit such license to the commission or its
9114wildlife officers, when such person is found taking alligators
9115or their eggs or is found selling, possessing, or processing
9116alligators or their eggs, hides, or meat, shall be a violation
9117of law.
9118     (b)  In order to assure the optimal utilization of the
9119estimated available alligator resource and to ensure adequate
9120control of the alligator management and harvest program, the
9121commission may by rule limit the number of participants engaged
9122in the taking of alligators or their eggs from the wild.
9123     (c)  No person who has been convicted of any violation of
9124s. s. 379.3015 or s.379.409 372.663 or s. 372.664 or the rules
9125of the commission relating to the illegal taking of crocodilian
9126species shall be eligible for issuance of a license for a period
9127of 5 years subsequent to such conviction. In the event such
9128violation involves the unauthorized taking of an endangered
9129crocodilian species, no license shall be issued for 10 years
9130subsequent to the conviction.
9131     (2)  The license and issuance fee, and the activity
9132authorized thereby, shall be as follows:
9133     (a)  The annual fee for issuance of a resident alligator
9134trapping license, which permits a resident of the state to take
9135alligators occurring in the wild other than alligator
9136hatchlings, to possess and process alligators taken under
9137authority of such alligator trapping license or otherwise
9138legally acquired, and to possess, process, and sell their hides
9139and meat, shall be $250.
9140     (b)  The annual fee for issuance of a nonresident alligator
9141trapping license, which permits a person other than a resident
9142of the state to take alligators occurring in the wild other than
9143alligator hatchlings, to possess and process alligators taken
9144under authority of such alligator trapping license, and to
9145possess, process, and sell their hides and meat, shall be
9146$1,000.
9147     (c)  The annual fee for issuance of an alligator trapping
9148agent's license, which permits a person to act as an agent of
9149any person who has been issued a resident or nonresident
9150alligator trapping license as provided in paragraph (a) or
9151paragraph (b) and to take alligators occurring in the wild other
9152than alligator hatchlings, and to possess and process alligators
9153taken under authority of such agency relationship, shall be $50.
9154Such alligator trapping agent's license shall be issued only in
9155conjunction with an alligator trapping license and shall bear on
9156its face in indelible ink the name and license number of the
9157alligator trapping licenseholder for whom the holder of this
9158license is acting as an agent.
9159     (d)  The annual fee for issuance of an alligator farming
9160license, which permits a person to operate a facility for
9161captive propagation of alligators, to possess alligators for
9162captive propagation, to take alligator hatchlings and alligator
9163eggs occurring in the wild, to rear such alligators, alligator
9164hatchlings, and alligator eggs in captivity, to process
9165alligators taken or possessed under authority of such alligator
9166farming license or otherwise legally acquired, and to sell their
9167hides and meat, shall be $250.
9168     (e)  The annual fee for issuance of an alligator farming
9169agent's license, which permits a person to act as an agent of
9170any person who has been issued an alligator farming license as
9171provided in paragraph (d) and to take alligator hatchlings and
9172alligator eggs occurring in the wild, and to possess and process
9173alligators taken under authority of such agency relationship,
9174shall be $50. Such license shall be issued only in conjunction
9175with an alligator farming license, and shall bear on its face in
9176indelible ink the name and license number of the alligator
9177farming licenseholder for whom the holder of this license is
9178acting as an agent.
9179     (f)  The annual fee for issuance of an alligator
9180processor's license, which permits a person to buy and process
9181alligators lawfully taken by alligator trapping licenseholders
9182and taken or possessed by alligator farming licenseholders and
9183to sell alligator meat, hides, and other parts, shall be $250.
9184     (3)  For the purpose of this section, "process" shall mean
9185the possession and skinning or butchering of an alligator by
9186someone other than the holder of the alligator trapping license,
9187alligator trapping agent's license, alligator farming license,
9188or alligator farming agent's license who has authorized the
9189taking and possession of such alligator.
9190     (4)  No person shall take any alligator egg occurring in
9191the wild or possess any such egg unless such person has
9192obtained, or is a licensed agent of another person who has
9193obtained, an alligator egg collection permit. The alligator egg
9194collection permit shall be required in addition to the alligator
9195farming license provided in paragraph (2)(d). The commission is
9196authorized to assess a fee for issuance of the alligator egg
9197collection permit of up to $5 per egg authorized to be taken or
9198possessed pursuant to such permit. Irrespective of whether a fee
9199is assessed, $1 per egg collected and retained, excluding eggs
9200collected on private wetland management areas, shall be
9201transferred from the alligator management program to the General
9202Inspection Trust Fund, to be administered by the Department of
9203Agriculture and Consumer Services for the purpose of providing
9204marketing and education services with respect to alligator
9205products produced in this state, notwithstanding other
9206provisions in this chapter.
9207     (5)  The commission shall adopt criteria by rule to
9208establish appropriate qualifications for alligator collectors
9209who may receive permits pursuant to this section.
9210     Section 163.  Section 372.6674, Florida Statutes, is
9211renumbered as section 379.3752, Florida Statutes, and amended to
9212read:
9213     379.3752 372.6674  Required tagging of alligators and
9214hides; fees; revenues.--The tags provided in this section shall
9215be required in addition to any license required under s.
9216379.3751 372.6673.
9217     (1)  No person shall take any alligator occurring in the
9218wild or possess any such alligator unless such alligator is
9219subsequently tagged in the manner required by commission rule.
9220For the tag required for an alligator hatchling, the commission
9221is authorized to assess a fee of not more than $15 for each
9222alligator hatchling tag issued. The commission shall expend one-
9223third of the revenue generated from the issuance of the
9224alligator hatchling tag for alligator husbandry research.
9225     (2)  The commission may require that an alligator hide
9226validation tag (CITES tag) be affixed to the hide of any
9227alligator taken from the wild and that such hide be possessed,
9228purchased, sold, offered for sale, or transported in accordance
9229with commission rule. The commission is authorized to assess a
9230fee of up to $30 for each alligator hide validation tag issued.
9231Irrespective of whether a fee is assessed, $5 per validated
9232hide, excluding those validated from public hunt programs and
9233alligator farms, shall be transferred from the alligator
9234management program to the General Inspection Trust Fund, to be
9235administered by the Department of Agriculture and Consumer
9236Services for the purpose of providing marketing and education
9237services with respect to alligator products produced in this
9238state, notwithstanding other provisions in this chapter.
9239     (3)  The number of tags available for alligators taken
9240pursuant to a collection permit shall be limited to the number
9241of tags determined by the commission to equal the safe yield of
9242alligators as determined pursuant to s. 379.3013 372.6678.
9243     Section 164.  Subsections (1), (2), (3), (7) and (8) of
9244section 372.921, Florida Statutes, are renumbered as section
9245379.3761, Florida Statutes, and amended to read:
9246     379.3761  Exhibition or sale of wildlife; fees;
9247classifications.--
9248     (1)  In order to provide humane treatment and sanitary
9249surroundings for wild animals kept in captivity, no person,
9250firm, corporation, or association shall have, or be in
9251possession of, in captivity for the purpose of public display
9252with or without charge or for public sale any wildlife,
9253specifically birds, mammals, amphibians, and reptiles, whether
9254indigenous to Florida or not, without having first secured a
9255permit from the commission authorizing such person, firm, or
9256corporation to have in its possession in captivity the species
9257and number of wildlife specified within such permit; however,
9258this section does not apply to any wildlife not protected by law
9259and the rules of the commission.
9260     (2)  The fees to be paid for the issuance of permits
9261required by subsection (1) shall be as follows:
9262     (a)  For not more than 25 Class I or Class II individual
9263specimens in the aggregate of all species, the sum of $150 per
9264annum.
9265     (b)  For over 25 Class I or Class II individual specimens
9266in the aggregate of all species, the sum of $250 per annum.
9267     (c)  For any number of Class III individual specimens in
9268the aggregate of all species, the sum of $50 per annum.
9269
9270The fees prescribed by this subsection shall be submitted to the
9271commission with the application for permit required by
9272subsection (1) and shall be deposited in the State Game Trust
9273Fund.
9274     (3)  An applicant for a permit shall be required to include
9275in her or his application a statement showing the place, number,
9276and species of wildlife to be held in captivity by the applicant
9277and shall be required upon request by the Fish and Wildlife
9278Conservation Commission to show when, where, and in what manner
9279she or he came into possession of any wildlife acquired
9280subsequent to the effective date of this act. The source of
9281acquisition of such wildlife shall not be divulged by the
9282commission except in connection with a violation of this section
9283or a regulation of the commission in which information as to
9284source of wildlife is required as evidence in the prosecution of
9285such violation.
9286     (4) (7)  The provisions of this section relative to
9287licensing do not apply to any municipal, county, state, or other
9288publicly owned wildlife exhibit. The provisions of this section
9289do not apply to any traveling zoo, circus, or exhibit licensed
9290as provided by chapter 205.
9291     (5) (8)  This section shall not apply to the possession,
9292control, care, and maintenance of ostriches, emus, rheas, and
9293bison domesticated and confined for commercial farming purposes,
9294except those kept and maintained on hunting preserves or game
9295farms or primarily for exhibition purposes in zoos, carnivals,
9296circuses, and other such establishments where such species are
9297kept primarily for display to the public.
9298     Section 165.  Subsections (1),(2),(5),(6), and (7) of
9299section 372.922, Florida Statutes, are renumbered as section
9300379.3762, Florida Statutes, and amended to read:
9301     379.3762 372.922  Personal possession of wildlife.--
9302     (1)  It is unlawful for any person or persons to possess
9303any wildlife as defined in this act, whether indigenous to
9304Florida or not, until she or he has obtained a permit as
9305provided by this section from the Fish and Wildlife Conservation
9306Commission.
9307     (2)  The classifications of types of wildlife and fees to
9308be paid for permits for the personal possession of wildlife
9309shall be as follows:
9310     (a)  Class I--Wildlife which, because of its nature,
9311habits, or status, shall not be possessed as a personal pet.
9312     (b)  Class II--Wildlife considered to present a real or
9313potential threat to human safety, the sum of $140 per annum.
9314     (c)  Class III--All other wildlife not included in Class I
9315or Class II, for which a no-cost permit must be obtained from
9316the commission.
9317     (3)(5)  Any person, firm, corporation, or association
9318exhibiting or selling wildlife and being duly permitted as
9319provided by s. 379.304 372.921 shall be exempt from the fee
9320requirement to receive a permit under this section.
9321     (4)(6)  This section shall not apply to the possession,
9322control, care, and maintenance of ostriches, emus, rheas, and
9323bison domesticated and confined for commercial farming purposes,
9324except those kept and maintained on hunting preserves or game
9325farms or primarily for exhibition purposes in zoos, carnivals,
9326circuses, and other such establishments where such species are
9327kept primarily for display to the public.
9328     (5)(7)  Persons in violation of this section shall be
9329punishable as provided in s. 379.401 372.83.
9330     Section 166.  Section 372.653, Florida Statutes, is
9331renumbered as section 379.377, Florida Statutes, and amended to
9332read:
9333     379.377 372.653  Tag fees for sale of Lake Okeechobee game
9334fish Required tagging of fish; lakes in excess of 500 square
9335miles; tag fee; game fish taken in lakes of 500 square miles or
9336less.--The commission is authorized to assess a fee of not more
9337than 5 cents per tag, payable at the time of delivery of the
9338tag, for the purpose of allowing the sale of game fish taken
9339commercially from Lake Okeechobee, as may be allowed by the
9340commission.
9341     (1)(a)  No game fish taken from, or caught in, a lake in
9342this state the area of which is in excess of 500 square miles
9343shall be sold for consumption in this state unless it is tagged
9344in the manner required by the Fish and Wildlife Conservation
9345Commission. Bass or pickerel taken by any method other than hook
9346and line shall be returned immediately to the water. Trawls and
9347haul seines shall not be operated within 1 mile of rooted
9348aquatic vegetation.
9349     (b)  In order that such program of tagging be self-
9350sufficient, the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is
9351authorized to assess a fee of not more than 5 cents per tag,
9352payable at the time of delivery of the tag.
9353     (2)  No freshwater game fish shall be taken from a lake in
9354this state the area of which is 500 square miles or less other
9355than with pole and line; rod and reel; or plug, bob, spinner,
9356spoon, or other artificial bait or lure.
9357     (3)  No freshwater game fish taken from a lake in this
9358state the area of which is 500 square miles or less shall be
9359offered for sale or sold.
9360     Section 167.  Part VIII of chapter 379, Florida Statutes,
9361consisting of sections 379.401, 379.4015, 379.402, 379.403,
9362379.404, 379.405, 379.406, 379.407, 379.408, 379.409, 379.411,
9363379.4115, 379.412, 379.413, and 379.414, is created to read:
9364
PART VIII
9365
PENALTIES
9366
9367     Section 168.  Section 372.83, Florida Statutes, is
9368renumbered as section 379.401, Florida Statutes, and amended to
9369read:
9370     379.401 372.83  Penalties and violations; civil penalties
9371for noncriminal infractions; criminal penalties; suspension and
9372forfeiture of licenses and permits.--
9373     (1)(a)  LEVEL ONE VIOLATIONS.--A person commits a Level One
9374violation if he or she violates any of the following provisions:
9375     1.  Rules or orders of the commission relating to the
9376filing of reports or other documents required to be filed by
9377persons who hold recreational licenses and permits issued by the
9378commission.
9379     2.  Rules or orders of the commission relating to quota
9380hunt permits, daily use permits, hunting zone assignments,
9381camping, alcoholic beverages, vehicles, and check stations
9382within wildlife management areas or other areas managed by the
9383commission.
9384     3.  Rules or orders of the commission relating to daily use
9385permits, alcoholic beverages, swimming, possession of firearms,
9386operation of vehicles, and watercraft speed within fish
9387management areas managed by the commission.
9388     4.  Rules or orders of the commission relating to vessel
9389size or specifying motor restrictions on specified water bodies.
9390     5.  Section 379.355 370.063, providing for special
9391recreational spiny lobster licenses.
9392     6.  Section 379.354(1)-(15) 372.57(1)-(15), providing for
9393recreational licenses to hunt, fish, and trap.
9394     7.  Section 379.3581 372.5717, providing hunter safety
9395course requirements.
9396     8.  Section 379.3003 372.988, prohibiting deer hunting
9397unless required clothing is worn.
9398     (b)  A person who commits a Level One violation commits a
9399noncriminal infraction and shall be cited to appear before the
9400county court.
9401     (c)1.  The civil penalty for committing a Level One
9402violation involving the license and permit requirements of s.
9403379.354 372.57 is $50 plus the cost of the license or permit,
9404unless subparagraph 2. applies.
9405     2.  The civil penalty for committing a Level One violation
9406involving the license and permit requirements of s. 379.354
9407372.57 is $100 plus the cost of the license or permit if the
9408person cited has previously committed the same Level One
9409violation within the preceding 36 months.
9410     (d)1.  The civil penalty for any other Level One violation
9411is $50 unless subparagraph 2. applies.
9412     2.  The civil penalty for any other Level One violation is
9413$100 if the person cited has previously committed the same Level
9414One violation within the preceding 36 months.
9415     (e)  A person cited for a Level One violation shall sign
9416and accept a citation to appear before the county court. The
9417issuing officer may indicate on the citation the time and
9418location of the scheduled hearing and shall indicate the
9419applicable civil penalty.
9420     (f)  A person cited for a Level One violation may pay the
9421civil penalty by mail or in person within 30 days after receipt
9422of the citation. If the civil penalty is paid, the person shall
9423be deemed to have admitted committing the Level One violation
9424and to have waived his or her right to a hearing before the
9425county court. Such admission may not be used as evidence in any
9426other proceedings except to determine the appropriate fine for
9427any subsequent violations.
9428     (g)  A person who refuses to accept a citation, who fails
9429to pay the civil penalty for a Level One violation, or who fails
9430to appear before a county court as required commits a
9431misdemeanor of the second degree, punishable as provided in s.
9432775.082 or s. 775.083.
9433     (h)  A person who elects to appear before the county court
9434or who is required to appear before the county court shall be
9435deemed to have waived the limitations on civil penalties
9436provided under paragraphs (c) and (d). After a hearing, the
9437county court shall determine if a Level One violation has been
9438committed, and if so, may impose a civil penalty of not less
9439than $50 for a first-time violation, and not more than $500 for
9440subsequent violations. A person found guilty of committing a
9441Level One violation may appeal that finding to the circuit
9442court. The commission of a violation must be proved beyond a
9443reasonable doubt.
9444     (i)  A person cited for violating the requirements of s.
9445379.354 372.57 relating to personal possession of a license or
9446permit may not be convicted if, prior to or at the time of a
9447county court hearing, the person produces the required license
9448or permit for verification by the hearing officer or the court
9449clerk. The license or permit must have been valid at the time
9450the person was cited. The clerk or hearing officer may assess a
9451$5 fee for costs under this paragraph.
9452     (2)(a)  LEVEL TWO VIOLATIONS.--A person commits a Level Two
9453violation if he or she violates any of the following provisions:
9454     1.  Rules or orders of the commission relating to seasons
9455or time periods for the taking of wildlife, freshwater fish, or
9456saltwater fish.
9457     2.  Rules or orders of the commission establishing bag,
9458possession, or size limits or restricting methods of taking
9459wildlife, freshwater fish, or saltwater fish.
9460     3.  Rules or orders of the commission prohibiting access or
9461otherwise relating to access to wildlife management areas or
9462other areas managed by the commission.
9463     4.  Rules or orders of the commission relating to the
9464feeding of wildlife, freshwater fish, or saltwater fish.
9465     5.  Rules or orders of the commission relating to landing
9466requirements for freshwater fish or saltwater fish.
9467     6.  Rules or orders of the commission relating to
9468restricted hunting areas, critical wildlife areas, or bird
9469sanctuaries.
9470     7.  Rules or orders of the commission relating to tagging
9471requirements for game and fur-bearing animals.
9472     8.  Rules or orders of the commission relating to the use
9473of dogs for the taking of game.
9474     9.  Rules or orders of the commission which are not
9475otherwise classified.
9476     10.  Rules or orders of the commission prohibiting the
9477unlawful use of finfish traps.
9478     11.10.  All prohibitions in this chapter 370 which are not
9479otherwise classified.
9480     12. 11.  Section 379.33 370.028, prohibiting the violation
9481of or noncompliance with commission rules.
9482     13. 12.  Section 379.407(6) 370.021(6) prohibiting the
9483sale, purchase, harvest, or attempted harvest of any saltwater
9484product with intent to sell.
9485     14. 13.  Section 379.2421 370.08, prohibiting the
9486obstruction of waterways with net gear.
9487     14.  Section 370.1105, prohibiting the unlawful use of
9488finfish traps.
9489     15.  Section 379.413 370.1121, prohibiting the unlawful
9490taking of bonefish.
9491     16.  Section 379.365(2)(a) and (b) 370.13(2)(a) and (b),
9492prohibiting the possession or use of stone crab traps without
9493trap tags and theft of trap contents or gear.
9494     17.  Section 379.366 (4)(b) 370.135(4)(b), prohibiting the
9495theft of blue crab trap contents or trap gear.
9496     18.  Section 379.3671(2)(c) 370.142 (2)(c), prohibiting the
9497possession or use of spiny lobster traps without trap tags or
9498certificates and theft of trap contents or trap gear.
9499     19.  Section 379.357 372.5704, prohibiting the possession
9500of tarpon without purchasing a tarpon tag.
9501     20.  Section 379.409 372.667, prohibiting the feeding or
9502enticement of alligators or crocodiles.
9503     21.  Section 379.105 372.705, prohibiting the intentional
9504harassment of hunters, fishers, or trappers.
9505     (b)1.  A person who commits a Level Two violation but who
9506has not been convicted of a Level Two or higher violation within
9507the past 3 years commits a misdemeanor of the second degree,
9508punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083.
9509     2.  Unless the stricter penalties in subparagraph 3. or
9510subparagraph 4. apply, a person who commits a Level Two
9511violation within 3 years after a previous conviction for a Level
9512Two or higher violation commits a misdemeanor of the first
9513degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083, with
9514a minimum mandatory fine of $250.
9515     3.  Unless the stricter penalties in subparagraph 4. apply,
9516a person who commits a Level Two violation within 5 years after
9517two previous convictions for a Level Two or higher violation,
9518commits a misdemeanor of the first degree, punishable as
9519provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083, with a minimum mandatory
9520fine of $500 and a suspension of any recreational license or
9521permit issued under s. 379.354 372.57 for 1 year. Such
9522suspension shall include the suspension of the privilege to
9523obtain such license or permit and the suspension of the ability
9524to exercise any privilege granted under any exemption in s.
9525379.353 372.562.
9526     4.  A person who commits a Level Two violation within 10
9527years after three previous convictions for a Level Two or higher
9528violation commits a misdemeanor of the first degree, punishable
9529as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083, with a minimum
9530mandatory fine of $750 and a suspension of any recreational
9531license or permit issued under s. 379.354 372.57 for 3 years.
9532Such suspension shall include the suspension of the privilege to
9533obtain such license or permit and the suspension of the ability
9534to exercise any privilege granted under s. 379.353 372.562. If
9535the recreational license or permit being suspended was an annual
9536license or permit, any privileges under ss. 379.353 and 379.354
9537372.562 and 372.57 may not be acquired for a 3-year period
9538following the date of the violation.
9539     (3)(a)  LEVEL THREE VIOLATIONS.--A person commits a Level
9540Three violation if he or she violates any of the following
9541provisions:
9542     1.  Rules or orders of the commission prohibiting the sale
9543of saltwater fish.
9544     2.  Rules or orders of the commission prohibiting the
9545illegal importation or possession of exotic marine plants or
9546animals.
9547     3. 2.  Section 379.407(2) 370.021(2), establishing major
9548violations.
9549     4. 3.  Section 379.407(4) 370.021(4), prohibiting the
9550possession of certain finfish in excess of recreational daily
9551bag limits.
9552     4.  Section 370.081, prohibiting the illegal importation or
9553possession of exotic marine plants or animals.
9554     5.  Section 379.28 372.26, prohibiting the importation of
9555freshwater fish.
9556     6.  Section 379.231 372.265, prohibiting the importation of
9557nonindigenous species of the animal kingdom without a permit
9558issued by the commission.
9559     7.  Section 379.354(17) 372.57(17), prohibiting the taking
9560of game, freshwater fish, or saltwater fish while a required
9561license is suspended or revoked.
9562     8.  Section 379.3014 372.662, prohibiting the illegal sale
9563or possession of alligators.
9564     9.  Section 379.404(1), (3), and (6) 372.99(1), (3), and
9565(6), prohibiting the illegal taking and possession of deer and
9566wild turkey.
9567     10.  Section 379.406 372.9903, prohibiting the possession
9568and transportation of commercial quantities of freshwater game
9569fish.
9570     (b)1.  A person who commits a Level Three violation but who
9571has not been convicted of a Level Three or higher violation
9572within the past 10 years commits a misdemeanor of the first
9573degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083.
9574     2.  A person who commits a Level Three violation within 10
9575years after a previous conviction for a Level Three or higher
9576violation commits a misdemeanor of the first degree, punishable
9577as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083, with a minimum
9578mandatory fine of $750 and a suspension of any recreational
9579license or permit issued under s. 379.354 372.57 for the
9580remainder of the period for which the license or permit was
9581issued up to 3 years. Such suspension shall include the
9582suspension of the privilege to obtain such license or permit and
9583the ability to exercise any privilege granted under s. 379.353
9584372.562. If the recreational license or permit being suspended
9585was an annual license or permit, any privileges under ss.
9586379.353 and 379.354 372.562 and 372.57 may not be acquired for a
95873-year period following the date of the violation.
9588     3.  A person who commits a violation of s. 379.354(17)
9589372.57(17) shall receive a mandatory fine of $1,000. Any
9590privileges under ss. 379.353 and 379.354 372.562 and 372.57 may
9591not be acquired for a 5-year period following the date of the
9592violation.
9593     (4)(a)  LEVEL FOUR VIOLATIONS.--A person commits a Level
9594Four violation if he or she violates any of the following
9595provisions:
9596     1.  Section 379.365(2)(c) 370.13(2)(c), prohibiting
9597criminal activities relating to the taking of stone crabs.
9598     2.  Section 379.366(4)(c) 370.135(4)(c), prohibiting
9599criminal activities relating to the taking and harvesting of
9600blue crabs.
9601     3.  Section 379.367(4) 370.14(4), prohibiting the willful
9602molestation of spiny lobster gear.
9603     4.  Section 379.3671(2)(c)5. 370.142(2)(c)5., prohibiting
9604the unlawful reproduction, possession, sale, trade, or barter of
9605spiny lobster trap tags or certificates.
9606     5.  Section 379.354(16) 372.57(16), prohibiting the making,
9607forging, counterfeiting, or reproduction of a recreational
9608license or possession of same without authorization from the
9609commission.
9610     6.  Section 379.404(5) 372.99(5), prohibiting the sale of
9611illegally-taken deer or wild turkey.
9612     7.  Section 379.405 372.99022, prohibiting the molestation
9613or theft of freshwater fishing gear.
9614     (b)  A person who commits a Level Four violation commits a
9615felony of the third degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082
9616or s. 775.083.
9617     (5)  VIOLATIONS OF CHAPTER.--Except as provided in this
9618chapter:
9619     (a)  A person who commits a violation of any provision of
9620this chapter commits, for the first offense, a misdemeanor of
9621the second degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s.
9622775.083.
9623     (b)  A person who is convicted of a second or subsequent
9624violation of any provision of this chapter commits a misdemeanor
9625of the first degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s.
9626775.083.
9627     (6)  SUSPENSION OR FORFEITURE OF LICENSE.--The court may
9628order the suspension or forfeiture of any license or permit
9629issued under this chapter to a person who is found guilty of
9630committing a violation of this chapter.
9631     (7)  CONVICTION DEFINED.--As used in this section, the term
9632"conviction" means any judicial disposition other than acquittal
9633or dismissal.
9634     Section 169.  Section 372.935, Florida Statutes, is
9635renumbered as section 379.4015, Florida Statutes, and amended to
9636read:
9637     379.4015 372.935  Captive wildlife penalties.--
9638     (1)  LEVEL ONE.--Unless otherwise provided by law, the
9639following classifications and penalties apply:
9640     (a)  A person commits a Level One violation if he or she
9641violates any of the following provisions:
9642     1.  Rules or orders of the commission requiring free
9643permits or other authorizations to possess captive wildlife.
9644     2.  Rules or orders of the commission relating to the
9645filing of reports or other documents required of persons who are
9646licensed to possess captive wildlife.
9647     3.  Rules or orders of the commission requiring permits to
9648possess captive wildlife for which a fee is charged, when the
9649person being charged was issued the permit and the permit has
9650expired less than 1 year prior to the violation.
9651     (b)  Any person cited for committing any offense classified
9652as a Level One violation commits a noncriminal infraction,
9653punishable as provided in this section.
9654     (c)  Any person cited for committing a noncriminal
9655infraction specified in paragraph (a) shall be cited to appear
9656before the county court. The civil penalty for any noncriminal
9657infraction is $50 if the person cited has not previously been
9658found guilty of a Level One violation and $250 if the person
9659cited has previously been found guilty of a Level One violation,
9660except as otherwise provided in this subsection. Any person
9661cited for failing to have a required permit or license shall pay
9662an additional civil penalty in the amount of the license fee
9663required.
9664     (d)  Any person cited for an infraction under this
9665subsection may:
9666     1.  Post a bond, which shall be equal in amount to the
9667applicable civil penalty; or
9668     2.  Sign and accept a citation indicating a promise to
9669appear before the county court. The officer may indicate on the
9670citation the time and location of the scheduled hearing and
9671shall indicate the applicable civil penalty.
9672     (e)  Any person charged with a noncriminal infraction under
9673this subsection may:
9674     1.  Pay the civil penalty, either by mail or in person,
9675within 30 days after the date of receiving the citation; or
9676     2.  If the person has posted bond, forfeit bond by not
9677appearing at the designated time and location.
9678     (f)  If the person cited follows either of the procedures
9679in subparagraph (e)1. or subparagraph (e)2., he or she shall be
9680deemed to have admitted the infraction and to have waived his or
9681her right to a hearing on the issue of commission of the
9682infraction. Such admission shall not be used as evidence in any
9683other proceedings except to determine the appropriate fine for
9684any subsequent violations.
9685     (g)  Any person who willfully refuses to post bond or
9686accept and sign a summons commits a misdemeanor of the second
9687degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083. Any
9688person who fails to pay the civil penalty specified in this
9689subsection within 30 days after being cited for a noncriminal
9690infraction or to appear before the court pursuant to this
9691subsection commits a misdemeanor of the second degree,
9692punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083.
9693     (h)  Any person electing to appear before the county court
9694or who is required to appear shall be deemed to have waived the
9695limitations on the civil penalty specified in paragraph (c). The
9696court, after a hearing, shall make a determination as to whether
9697an infraction has been committed. If the commission of an
9698infraction has been proven, the court may impose a civil penalty
9699not less than those amounts in paragraph (c) and not to exceed
9700$500.
9701     (i)  At a hearing under this chapter, the commission of a
9702charged infraction must be proved beyond a reasonable doubt.
9703     (j)  If a person is found by the hearing official to have
9704committed an infraction, she or he may appeal that finding to
9705the circuit court.
9706     (2)  LEVEL TWO.--Unless otherwise provided by law, the
9707following classifications and penalties apply:
9708     (a)  A person commits a Level Two violation if he or she
9709violates any of the following provisions:
9710     1.  Unless otherwise stated in subsection (1), rules or
9711orders of the commission that require a person to pay a fee to
9712obtain a permit to possess captive wildlife or that require the
9713maintenance of records relating to captive wildlife.
9714     2.  Rules or orders of the commission relating to captive
9715wildlife not specified in subsection (1) or subsection (3).
9716     3.  Rules or orders of the commission that require housing
9717of wildlife in a safe manner when a violation results in an
9718escape of wildlife other than Class I wildlife.
9719     4.  Section 379.372 372.86, relating to capturing, keeping,
9720possessing, transporting, or exhibiting venomous reptiles or
9721reptiles of concern.
9722     5.  Section 379.373 372.87, relating to requiring a license
9723or permit for the capturing, keeping, possessing, or exhibiting
9724of venomous reptiles or reptiles of concern.
9725     6.  Section 379.374 372.88, relating to bonding
9726requirements for public exhibits of venomous reptiles.
9727     7.  Section 379.305 372.92, relating to commission rules
9728and regulations to prevent the escape of venomous reptiles or
9729reptiles of concern.
9730     8.  Section 379.304 372.921, relating to exhibition or sale
9731of wildlife.
9732     9.  Section 379.3762 372.922, relating to personal
9733possession of wildlife.
9734     (b)  A person who commits any offense classified as a Level
9735Two violation and who has not been convicted of a Level Two or
9736higher violation within the past 3 years commits a misdemeanor
9737of the second degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s.
9738775.083.
9739     (c)  Unless otherwise stated in this subsection, a person
9740who commits any offense classified as a Level Two violation
9741within a 3-year period of any previous conviction of a Level Two
9742or higher violation commits a misdemeanor of the first degree,
9743punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083 with a
9744minimum mandatory fine of $250.
9745     (d)  Unless otherwise stated in this subsection, a person
9746who commits any offense classified as a Level Two violation
9747within a 5-year period of any two previous convictions of Level
9748Two or higher violations commits a misdemeanor of the first
9749degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083, with
9750a minimum mandatory fine of $500 and a suspension of all
9751licenses issued under this chapter related to captive wildlife
9752for 1 year.
9753     (e)  A person who commits any offense classified as a Level
9754Two violation within a 10-year period of any three previous
9755convictions of Level Two or higher violations commits a
9756misdemeanor of the first degree, punishable as provided in s.
9757775.082 or s. 775.083, with a minimum mandatory fine of $750 and
9758a suspension of all licenses issued under this chapter related
9759to captive wildlife for 3 years.
9760     (3)  LEVEL THREE.--Unless otherwise provided by law, the
9761following classifications and penalties apply:
9762     (a)  A person commits a Level Three violation if he or she
9763violates any of the following provisions:
9764     1.  Rules or orders of the commission that require housing
9765of wildlife in a safe manner when a violation results in an
9766escape of Class I wildlife.
9767     2.  Rules or orders of the commission related to captive
9768wildlife when the violation results in serious bodily injury to
9769another person by captive wildlife that consists of a physical
9770condition that creates a substantial risk of death, serious
9771personal disfigurement, or protracted loss or impairment of the
9772function of any bodily member or organ.
9773     3.  Rules or orders of the commission relating to the use
9774of gasoline or other chemical or gaseous substances on wildlife.
9775     4.  Rules or orders of the commission prohibiting the
9776release of wildlife for which only conditional possession is
9777allowed.
9778     5.  Rules or orders of the commission prohibiting knowingly
9779entering false information on an application for a license or
9780permit when the license or permit is to possess wildlife in
9781captivity.
9782     6.  Rules or orders of the commission, relating to the
9783illegal importation and possession of nonindigenous marine
9784plants and animals.
9785     7.  Rules or orders of the commission relating to the
9786importation, possession, or release of fish and wildlife for
9787which possession is prohibited.
9788     8. 6.  Section 379.231 372.265, relating to illegal
9789importation or introduction of foreign wildlife.
9790     7.  Section 370.081, relating to the illegal importation
9791and possession of nonindigenous marine plants and animals.
9792     9. 8.  Section 379.305 372.92, relating to release or
9793escape of nonnative venomous reptiles or reptiles of concern.
9794     9.  Rules or orders of the commission relating to the
9795importation, possession, or release of fish and wildlife for
9796which possession is prohibited.
9797     (b)1.  A person who commits any offense classified as a
9798Level Three violation and who has not been convicted of a Level
9799Three or higher violation within the past 10 years commits a
9800misdemeanor of the first degree, punishable as provided in s.
9801775.082 or s. 775.083.
9802     2.  A person who commits any offense classified as a Level
9803Three violation within a 10-year period of any previous
9804conviction of a Level Three or higher violation commits a
9805misdemeanor of the first degree, punishable as provided in s.
9806775.082 or s. 775.083, with a minimum mandatory fine of $750 and
9807permanent revocation of all licenses or permits to possess
9808captive wildlife issued under this chapter.
9809     (4)  LEVEL FOUR.--Unless otherwise provided by law, the
9810following classifications and penalties apply:
9811     (a)  A person commits a Level Four violation if he or she
9812violates any Level Three provision after the permanent
9813revocation of a license or permit.
9814     (b)  A person who commits any offense classified as a Level
9815Four violation commits a felony of the third degree, punishable
9816as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083.
9817     (5)  SUSPENSION OR REVOCATION OF LICENSE.--The court may
9818order the suspension or revocation of any license or permit
9819issued to a person to possess captive wildlife pursuant to this
9820chapter if that person commits a criminal offense or a
9821noncriminal infraction as specified under this section.
9822     (6)  CONVICTION DEFINED.--For purposes of this section, the
9823term "conviction" means any judicial disposition other than
9824acquittal or dismissal.
9825     (7)  COMMISSION LIMITATIONS.--Nothing in this section shall
9826limit the commission from suspending or revoking any license to
9827possess wildlife in captivity by administrative action in
9828accordance with chapter 120. For purposes of administrative
9829action, a conviction of a criminal offense shall mean any
9830judicial disposition other than acquittal or dismissal.
9831     Section 170.  Section 370.1107, Florida Statutes, is
9832renumbered as section 379.402, Florida Statutes, to read:
9833     379.402 370.1107  Definition; possession of certain
9834licensed traps prohibited; penalties; exceptions; consent.--
9835     (1)  As used in this section, the term "licensed saltwater
9836fisheries trap" means any trap required to be licensed by the
9837Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and authorized by the
9838commission for the taking of saltwater products.
9839     (2)  It is unlawful for any person, firm, corporation, or
9840association to be in actual or constructive possession of a
9841licensed saltwater fisheries trap registered with the Fish and
9842Wildlife Conservation Commission in another person's, firm's,
9843corporation's, or association's name.
9844     (a)  Unlawful possession of less than three licensed
9845saltwater fisheries traps is a misdemeanor of the first degree,
9846punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083.
9847     (b)  Unlawful possession of three or more licensed
9848saltwater fisheries traps is a felony of the third degree,
9849punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083.
9850     (c)  Upon receipt of any judicial disposition other than
9851dismissal or acquittal on a charge of violating this section or
9852any provision of law or rule making unlawful the possession of
9853another's saltwater fishing trap, a person shall permanently
9854lose all saltwater fishing privileges, including licenses, trap
9855certificates, and the ability to transfer trap certificates.
9856     (3)  It is unlawful for any person, firm, corporation, or
9857association to possess, attempt to possess, interfere with,
9858attempt to interfere with, or remove live bait from a live bait
9859trap or cage of another person, firm, corporation, or
9860association. Unlawful possession of one or more live bait traps
9861or cages is a misdemeanor of the first degree, punishable as
9862provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083.
9863     (4)  This section shall not apply to the agents or
9864employees of the registered owner of the licensed saltwater
9865fisheries trap or to a person, firm, corporation, or association
9866who has the written consent from the owner of the licensed
9867saltwater fisheries trap, to possess such licensed saltwater
9868fisheries trap, or to agents or employees of the Fish and
9869Wildlife Conservation Commission who are engaged in the removal
9870of traps during the closed season.
9871     (5)  The registered owner of the licensed saltwater
9872fisheries trap shall provide the Fish and Wildlife Conservation
9873Commission with the names of any agents, employees, or any other
9874person, firm, company, or association to whom the registered
9875owner has given consent to possess said licensed saltwater
9876fisheries trap.
9877     Section 171.  Section 372.7015, Florida Statutes, is
9878renumbered as section 379.403, Florida Statutes, and amended to
9879read:
9880     379.403 372.7015  Illegal killing, taking, possessing, or
9881selling wildlife or game; fines; disposition of fines.--In
9882addition to any other penalty provided by law, any person who
9883violates the criminal provisions of this chapter and rules
9884adopted pursuant to this chapter by illegally killing, taking,
9885possessing, or selling game or fur-bearing animals as defined in
9886s. 379.101 (19) or (20) 372.001(10) or (11) in or out of season
9887while violating chapter 810 shall pay a fine of $250 for each
9888such violation, plus court costs and any restitution ordered by
9889the court. All fines collected under this section shall be
9890remitted by the clerk of the court to the Department of Revenue
9891to be deposited into the Fish and Wildlife Conservation
9892Commission's State Game Trust Fund.
9893     Section 172.  Section 372.99, Florida Statutes, is
9894renumbered as section 379.404, Florida Statutes, and amended to
9895read:
9896     379.404 372.99  Illegal taking and possession of deer and
9897wild turkey; evidence; penalty.--
9898     (1)  Whoever takes or kills any deer or wild turkey, or
9899possesses a freshly killed deer or wild turkey, during the
9900closed season prescribed by law or by the rules and regulations
9901of the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, or whoever
9902takes or attempts to take any deer or wild turkey by the use of
9903gun and light in or out of closed season, commits a Level Three
9904violation under s. 379.401 372.83 and shall forfeit any license
9905or permit issued to her or him under the provisions of this
9906chapter. No license shall be issued to such person for a period
9907of 3 years following any such violation on the first offense.
9908Any person guilty of a second or subsequent violation shall be
9909permanently ineligible for issuance of a license or permit
9910thereafter.
9911     (2)  The display or use of a light in a place where deer
9912might be found and in a manner capable of disclosing the
9913presence of deer, together with the possession of firearms or
9914other weapons customarily used for the taking of deer, between 1
9915hour after sunset and 1 hour before sunrise, shall be prima
9916facie evidence of an intent to violate the provisions of
9917subsection (1). This subsection does not apply to an owner or
9918her or his employee when patrolling or inspecting the land of
9919the owner, provided the employee has satisfactory proof of
9920employment on her or his person.
9921     (3)  Whoever takes or kills any doe deer; fawn or baby
9922deer; or deer, whether male or female, which does not have one
9923or more antlers at least 5 inches in length, except as provided
9924by law or the rules of the Fish and Wildlife Conservation
9925Commission, during the open season prescribed by the rules of
9926the commission, commits a Level Three violation under s. 379.401
9927372.83 and may be required to forfeit any license or permit
9928issued to such person for a period of 3 years following any such
9929violation on the first offense. Any person guilty of a second or
9930subsequent violation shall be permanently ineligible for
9931issuance of a license or permit thereafter.
9932     (4)  Any person who cultivates agricultural crops may apply
9933to the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission for a permit to
9934take or kill deer on land which that person is currently
9935cultivating. When said person can show, to the satisfaction of
9936the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, that such taking
9937or killing of deer is justified because of damage to the
9938person's crops caused by deer, the Fish and Wildlife
9939Conservation Commission may issue a limited permit to the
9940applicant to take or kill deer without being in violation of
9941subsection (1) or subsection (3).
9942     (5)  Whoever possesses for sale or sells deer or wild
9943turkey taken in violation of this chapter or the rules and
9944regulations of the commission commits a Level Four violation
9945under s. 379.401 372.83.
9946     (6)  Any person who enters upon private property and shines
9947lights upon such property, without the express permission of the
9948owner of the property and with the intent to take deer by
9949utilizing such shining lights, commits a Level Three violation
9950under s. 379.401 372.83.
9951     Section 173.  Section 372.99022, Florida Statutes, is
9952renumbered as section 379.405, Florida Statutes, and amended to
9953read:
9954     379.405 372.99022  Illegal molestation of or theft from
9955freshwater fishing gear.--
9956     (1)(a)  Any person, firm, or corporation that willfully
9957molests any authorized and lawfully permitted freshwater fishing
9958gear belonging to another without the express written consent of
9959the owner commits a Level Four violation under s. 379.401
9960372.83. Any written consent must be available for immediate
9961inspection.
9962     (b)  Any person, firm, or corporation that willfully
9963removes the contents of any authorized and lawfully permitted
9964freshwater fishing gear belonging to another without the express
9965written consent of the owner commits a Level Four violation
9966under s. 379.401 372.83. Any written consent must be available
9967for immediate inspection.
9968
9969A person, firm, or corporation that receives a citation for a
9970violation of this subsection is prohibited, immediately upon
9971receipt of such citation and until adjudicated or convicted of a
9972felony under this subsection, from transferring any
9973endorsements.
9974     (2)  Any person, firm, or corporation convicted pursuant to
9975subsection (1) of removing the contents of freshwater fishing
9976gear without the express written consent of the owner shall
9977permanently lose all of his or her freshwater and saltwater
9978fishing privileges, including his or her recreational and
9979commercial licenses and endorsements, and shall be assessed an
9980administrative penalty of not more than $5,000. The endorsements
9981of such person, firm, or corporation are not transferable.
9982     (3)  For purposes of this section, the term "freshwater
9983fishing gear" means haul seines, slat baskets, wire traps, hoop
9984nets, or pound nets, and includes the lines or buoys attached
9985thereto.
9986     Section 174.  Section 372.9903, Florida Statutes, is
9987renumbered as section 379.406, Florida Statutes, and amended to
9988read:
9989     379.406 372.9903  Illegal possession or transportation of
9990freshwater game fish in commercial quantities; penalty.--
9991     (1)  Whoever possesses, moves, or transports any black
9992bass, bream, speckled perch, or other freshwater game fish in
9993commercial quantities in violation of law or the rules of the
9994Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission commits a Level Three
9995violation under s. 379.401 372.83.
9996     (2)  For the purposes of this section "commercial
9997quantities" shall be deemed to be a quantity of freshwater game
9998fish of 150 or more pounds, and the possession, movement, or
9999transportation of freshwater game fish in excess of such weight
10000shall constitute prima facie evidence of possession or
10001transportation for commercial purposes.
10002     Section 175.  Subsections (1), (2), (3), (4), (5), (6),
10003(11), and (12) of section 370.021, Florida Statutes, are
10004renumbered as section 379.407, Florida Statutes, and amended to
10005read:
10006     379.407 370.021  Administration; rules, publications,
10007records; penalties; injunctions.--
10008     (1)  BASE PENALTIES.--Unless otherwise provided by law, any
10009person, firm, or corporation who violates any provision of this
10010chapter, or any rule of the Fish and Wildlife Conservation
10011Commission relating to the conservation of marine resources,
10012shall be punished:
10013     (a)  Upon a first conviction, by imprisonment for a period
10014of not more than 60 days or by a fine of not less than $100 nor
10015more than $500, or by both such fine and imprisonment.
10016     (b)  On a second or subsequent conviction within 12 months,
10017by imprisonment for not more than 6 months or by a fine of not
10018less than $250 nor more than $1,000, or by both such fine and
10019imprisonment.
10020
10021Upon final disposition of any alleged offense for which a
10022citation for any violation of this chapter or the rules of the
10023commission has been issued, the court shall, within 10 days,
10024certify the disposition to the commission.
10025     (2)  MAJOR VIOLATIONS.--In addition to the penalties
10026provided in paragraphs (1)(a) and (b), the court shall assess
10027additional penalties against any commercial harvester convicted
10028of major violations as follows:
10029     (a)  For a violation involving more than 100 illegal blue
10030crabs, spiny lobster, or stone crabs, an additional penalty of
10031$10 for each illegal blue crab, spiny lobster, stone crab, or
10032part thereof.
10033     (b)1.  For a violation involving the taking or harvesting
10034of shrimp from a nursery or other prohibited area, or any two
10035violations within a 12-month period involving shrimping gear,
10036minimum size (count), or season, an additional penalty of $10
10037for each pound of illegal shrimp or part thereof.
10038     2.  For violations involving the taking of food shrimp in
10039certain closed areas:
10040     a.  Any person with a saltwater products license issued by
10041the commission who is convicted of taking food shrimp in Santa
10042Rosa Sound in violation of commission rule designating a closed
10043area shall have that license and the saltwater products license
10044of the boat involved in the violation revoked and shall be
10045ineligible to make application for such a license for a period
10046of 2 years from the date of such conviction. If a person who
10047does not have a saltwater products license is convicted
10048hereunder, that person and the boat involved in the violation
10049shall not be eligible for such a license for 5 years.
10050     b.  A third or subsequent violation by any person of the
10051designated closure to food shrimping in Santa Rosa Sound within
10052a 3-year period is a felony of the third degree, punishable as
10053provided in s. 775.082, s. 775.083, or s. 775.084.
10054     c.  A second or any subsequent violation by any person for
10055taking food shrimp in a food shrimp production closed area in a
10056portion of Monroe County designated by the commission is a
10057felony of the third degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082
10058or s. 775.083.
10059     d.  A third or any subsequent violation by the owner or
10060master of any vessel engaged in food shrimp production in the
10061Tortugas Shrimp Beds closed area designated by the commission
10062within a 3-year period is a felony of the third degree,
10063punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083.
10064     e.  This subparagraph does not apply to persons shrimping
10065for live bait shrimp in the designated closed area when such
10066persons are shrimping with a live bait shrimping license issued
10067by the commission.
10068     3.  The owner or master of any vessel not equipped with
10069live shrimp bait tanks dragging shrimp nets in the Tortugas
10070Shrimp Beds without a live bait shrimping license for this area
10071is subject to the base penalties in subsection (1) for a first
10072or second violation. A third or subsequent violation by any
10073person under this subparagraph within a 3-year period is a
10074felony of the third degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082
10075or s. 775.083.
10076     (c)  For a violation involving the taking or harvesting of
10077oysters from nonapproved areas or the taking or possession of
10078unculled oysters, an additional penalty of $10 for each bushel
10079of illegal oysters.
10080     (d)  For a violation involving the taking or harvesting of
10081clams from nonapproved areas, an additional penalty of $100 for
10082each 500 count bag of illegal clams.
10083     (e)  For a violation involving the taking, harvesting, or
10084possession of any of the following species, which are
10085endangered, threatened, or of special concern:
10086     1.  Shortnose sturgeon (Acipenser brevirostrum);
10087     2.  Atlantic sturgeon (Acipenser oxyrhynchus);
10088     3.  Common snook (Centropomus undecimalis);
10089     4.  Atlantic loggerhead turtle (Caretta caretta caretta);
10090     5.  Atlantic green turtle (Chelonia mydas mydas);
10091     6.  Leatherback turtle (Dermochelys coriacea);
10092     7.  Atlantic hawksbill turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata
10093imbracata);
10094     8.  Atlantic ridley turtle (Lepidochelys kempi); or
10095     9.  West Indian manatee (Trichechus manatus latirostris),
10096
10097an additional penalty of $100 for each unit of marine life or
10098part thereof.
10099     (f)  For a second or subsequent conviction within 24 months
10100for any violation of the same law or rule involving the taking
10101or harvesting of more than 100 pounds of any finfish, an
10102additional penalty of $5 for each pound of illegal finfish.
10103     (g)  For any violation involving the taking, harvesting, or
10104possession of more than 1,000 pounds of any illegal finfish, an
10105additional penalty equivalent to the wholesale value of the
10106illegal finfish.
10107     (h)  Permits issued to any commercial harvester by the
10108commission to take or harvest saltwater products, or any license
10109issued pursuant to s. 379.361 370.06 or s. 379.362 370.07 may be
10110suspended or revoked by the commission, pursuant to the
10111provisions and procedures of s. 120.60, for any major violation
10112prescribed in this subsection:
10113     1.  Upon a first conviction, for up to 30 calendar days.
10114     2.  Upon a second conviction which occurs within 12 months
10115after a prior violation, for up to 90 calendar days.
10116     3.  Upon a third conviction which occurs within 24 months
10117after a prior conviction, for up to 180 calendar days.
10118     4.  Upon a fourth conviction which occurs within 36 months
10119after a prior conviction, for a period of 6 months to 3 years.
10120     (i)  Upon the arrest and conviction for a major violation
10121involving stone crabs, the licenseholder must show just cause
10122why his or her license should not be suspended or revoked. For
10123the purposes of this paragraph, a "major violation" means a
10124major violation as prescribed for illegal stone crabs; any
10125single violation involving possession of more than 25 stone
10126crabs during the closed season or possession of 25 or more
10127whole-bodied or egg-bearing stone crabs; any violation for trap
10128molestation, trap robbing, or pulling traps at night; or any
10129combination of violations in any 3-consecutive-year period
10130wherein more than 75 illegal stone crabs in the aggregate are
10131involved.
10132     (j)  Upon the arrest and conviction for a major violation
10133involving spiny lobster, the licenseholder must show just cause
10134why his or her license should not be suspended or revoked. For
10135the purposes of this paragraph, a "major violation" means a
10136major violation as prescribed for illegal spiny lobster; any
10137single violation involving possession of more than 25 spiny
10138lobster during the closed season or possession of more than 25
10139wrung spiny lobster tails or more than 25 egg-bearing or
10140stripped spiny lobster; any violation for trap molestation, trap
10141robbing, or pulling traps at night; or any combination of
10142violations in any 3-consecutive-year period wherein more than 75
10143illegal spiny lobster in the aggregate are involved.
10144     (k)  Upon the arrest and conviction for a major violation
10145involving blue crabs, the licenseholder shall show just cause
10146why his or her saltwater products license should not be
10147suspended or revoked. This paragraph shall not apply to an
10148individual fishing with no more than five traps. For the
10149purposes of this paragraph, a "major violation" means a major
10150violation as prescribed for illegal blue crabs, any single
10151violation wherein 50 or more illegal blue crabs are involved;
10152any violation for trap molestation, trap robbing, or pulling
10153traps at night; or any combination of violations in any 3-
10154consecutive-year period wherein more than 100 illegal blue crabs
10155in the aggregate are involved.
10156     (l)  Upon the conviction for a major violation involving
10157finfish, the licenseholder must show just cause why his or her
10158saltwater products license should not be suspended or revoked.
10159For the purposes of this paragraph, a major violation is
10160prescribed for the taking and harvesting of illegal finfish, any
10161single violation involving the possession of more than 100
10162pounds of illegal finfish, or any combination of violations in
10163any 3-consecutive-year period wherein more than 200 pounds of
10164illegal finfish in the aggregate are involved.
10165     (m)  For a violation involving the taking or harvesting of
10166any marine life species, as those species are defined by rule of
10167the commission, the harvest of which is prohibited, or the
10168taking or harvesting of such a species out of season, or with an
10169illegal gear or chemical, or any violation involving the
10170possession of 25 or more individual specimens of marine life
10171species, or any combination of violations in any 3-year period
10172involving more than 70 such specimens in the aggregate, the
10173suspension or revocation of the licenseholder's marine life
10174endorsement as provided in paragraph (h).
10175
10176The penalty provisions of this subsection apply to commercial
10177harvesters and wholesale and retail dealers as defined in s.
10178379.362 370.07. Any other person who commits a major violation
10179under this subsection commits a Level Three violation under s.
10180379.401 372.83. Notwithstanding the provisions of s. 948.01, no
10181court may suspend, defer, or withhold adjudication of guilt or
10182imposition of sentence for any major violation prescribed in
10183this subsection. The proceeds from the penalties assessed
10184pursuant to this subsection shall be deposited into the Marine
10185Resources Conservation Trust Fund to be used for marine
10186fisheries research or into the commission's Federal Law
10187Enforcement Trust Fund as provided in s. 372.107, as applicable.
10188     (3)  PENALTIES FOR USE OF ILLEGAL NETS.--
10189     (a)  It is a major violation pursuant to this section,
10190punishable as provided in paragraph (b) for any person, firm, or
10191corporation to be simultaneously in possession of any species of
10192mullet in excess of the recreational daily bag limit and any
10193gill or other entangling net as defined in s. 16(c), Art. X of
10194the State Constitution. Simultaneous possession under this
10195provision shall include possession of mullet and gill or other
10196entangling nets on separate vessels or vehicles where such
10197vessels or vehicles are operated in coordination with one
10198another including vessels towed behind a main vessel. This
10199subsection does not prohibit a resident of this state from
10200transporting on land, from Alabama to this state, a commercial
10201quantity of mullet together with a gill net if:
10202     1.  The person possesses a valid commercial fishing license
10203that is issued by the State of Alabama and that allows the
10204person to use a gill net to legally harvest mullet in commercial
10205quantities from Alabama waters.
10206     2.  The person possesses a trip ticket issued in Alabama
10207and filled out to match the quantity of mullet being
10208transported, and the person is able to present such trip ticket
10209immediately upon entering this state.
10210     3.  The mullet are to be sold to a wholesale saltwater
10211products dealer located in Escambia County or Santa Rosa County,
10212which dealer also possesses a valid seafood dealer's license
10213issued by the State of Alabama. The dealer's name must be
10214clearly indicated on the trip ticket.
10215     4.  The mullet being transported are totally removed from
10216any net also being transported.
10217     (b)1.  A flagrant violation of any rule or statute which
10218implements s. 16(b), Art. X of the State Constitution shall be
10219considered a felony of the third degree, punishable as provided
10220in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083. For purposes of this paragraph, a
10221flagrant violation shall be the illegal possession or use of a
10222monofilament net or a net with a mesh area larger than 2,000
10223square feet. A violation means any judicial disposition other
10224than acquittal or dismissal.
10225     2.  In addition to being subject to the other penalties
10226provided in this chapter, any violation of s. 16(b), Art. X of
10227the State Constitution, or any statute or rule of the commission
10228which implements the gear prohibitions and restrictions
10229specified therein shall be considered a major violation; and any
10230person, firm, or corporation receiving any judicial disposition
10231other than acquittal or dismissal of such violation shall be
10232subject to the following additional penalties:
10233     a.  For a first major violation within a 7-year period, a
10234civil penalty of $2,500 and suspension of all saltwater products
10235license privileges for 90 calendar days following final
10236disposition shall be imposed.
10237     b.  For a second major violation under this subparagraph
10238charged within 7 years of a previous judicial disposition, which
10239results in a second judicial disposition other than acquittal or
10240dismissal, a civil penalty of $5,000 and suspension of all
10241saltwater products license privileges for 12 months shall be
10242imposed.
10243     c.  For a third or subsequent major violation under this
10244subparagraph, charged within a 7-year period, resulting in a
10245third or subsequent judicial disposition other than acquittal or
10246dismissal, a civil penalty of $5,000, lifetime revocation of the
10247saltwater products license, and forfeiture of all gear and
10248equipment used in the violation shall be imposed.
10249     d.  For a first flagrant violation under this subparagraph,
10250a civil penalty of $5,000 and a suspension of all saltwater
10251license privileges for 12 months shall be imposed. For a second
10252or subsequent flagrant violation under this subparagraph, a
10253civil penalty of $5,000, a lifetime revocation of the saltwater
10254products license, and the forfeiture of all gear and equipment
10255used in the violation shall be imposed.
10256
10257A court may suspend, defer, or withhold adjudication of guilt or
10258imposition of sentence only for any first violation of s. 16,
10259Art. X of the State Constitution, or any rule or statute
10260implementing its restrictions, determined by a court only after
10261consideration of competent evidence of mitigating circumstances
10262to be a nonflagrant or minor violation of those restrictions
10263upon the use of nets. Any violation of s. 16, Art. X of the
10264State Constitution, or any rule or statute implementing its
10265restrictions, occurring within a 7-year period commencing upon
10266the conclusion of any judicial proceeding resulting in any
10267outcome other than acquittal shall be punished as a second,
10268third, or subsequent violation accordingly.
10269     (c)  During the period of suspension or revocation of
10270saltwater license privileges under this subsection, the licensee
10271shall not participate in the taking or harvesting, or attempt
10272the taking or harvesting, of saltwater products from any vessel
10273within the waters of the state; be aboard any vessel on which a
10274commercial quantity of saltwater products is possessed through
10275an activity requiring a license pursuant to this section; or
10276engage in any other activity requiring a license, permit, or
10277certificate issued pursuant to this chapter. Any person who is
10278convicted of violating this paragraph:
10279     1.  Upon a first or second conviction, is guilty of a
10280misdemeanor of the first degree, punishable as provided in s.
10281775.082 or s. 775.083.
10282     2.  Upon a third or subsequent conviction, is guilty of a
10283felony of the third degree, punishable as provided in s.
10284775.082, s. 775.083, or s. 775.084.
10285     (d)  Upon reinstatement of saltwater license privileges
10286suspended pursuant to a violation of this subsection, a licensee
10287owning or operating a vessel containing or otherwise
10288transporting in or on Florida waters any gill net or other
10289entangling net, or containing or otherwise transporting in
10290nearshore and inshore Florida waters any net containing more
10291than 500 square feet of mesh area shall remain restricted for a
10292period of 12 months following reinstatement, to operating under
10293the following conditions:
10294     1.  Vessels subject to this reinstatement period shall be
10295restricted to the corridors established by commission rule.
10296     2.  A violation of the reinstatement period provisions
10297shall be punishable pursuant to paragraphs (1)(a) and (b).
10298     (4)  ADDITIONAL PENALTIES FOR MAJOR VIOLATIONS INVOLVING
10299CERTAIN FINFISH.--
10300     (a)  It is a major violation under this section for any
10301person to be in possession of any species of trout, snook, or
10302redfish which is three fish in excess of the recreational or
10303commercial daily bag limit.
10304     (b)  A commercial harvester who violates this subsection
10305shall be punished as provided under paragraph (3)(b). Any other
10306person who violates this subsection commits a Level Three
10307violation under s. 379.401 372.83.
10308     (5)  SALTWATER PRODUCTS; UNLICENSED SELLERS; ILLEGALLY
10309HARVESTED PRODUCTS.--In addition to other penalties authorized
10310in this chapter, any violation of s. 379.361 370.06 or s.
10311379.362 370.07, or rules of the commission implementing s.
10312379.361 370.06 or s. 379.362 370.07, involving the purchase of
10313saltwater products by a commercial wholesale dealer, retail
10314dealer, or restaurant facility for public consumption from an
10315unlicensed person, firm, or corporation, or the purchase or sale
10316of any saltwater product known to be taken in violation of s.
1031716, Art. X of the State Constitution, or rule or statute
10318implementing the provisions thereof, by a commercial wholesale
10319dealer, retail dealer, or restaurant facility, for public
10320consumption, is a major violation, and the commission may assess
10321the following penalties:
10322     (a)  For a first violation, the commission may assess a
10323civil penalty of up to $2,500 and may suspend the wholesale or
10324retail dealer's license privileges for up to 90 calendar days.
10325     (b)  For a second violation occurring within 12 months of a
10326prior violation, the commission may assess a civil penalty of up
10327to $5,000 and may suspend the wholesale or retail dealer's
10328license privileges for up to 180 calendar days.
10329     (c)  For a third or subsequent violation occurring within a
1033024-month period, the commission shall assess a civil penalty of
10331$5,000 and shall suspend the wholesale or retail dealer's
10332license privileges for up to 24 months.
10333
10334Any proceeds from the civil penalties assessed pursuant to this
10335subsection shall be deposited into the Marine Resources
10336Conservation Trust Fund and shall be used as follows: 40 percent
10337for administration and processing purposes and 60 percent for
10338law enforcement purposes.
10339     (6)  PENALTIES FOR UNLICENSED SALE, PURCHASE, OR
10340HARVEST.--It is a major violation and punishable as provided in
10341this subsection for any unlicensed person, firm, or corporation
10342who is required to be licensed under this chapter as a
10343commercial harvester or a wholesale or retail dealer to sell or
10344purchase any saltwater product or to harvest or attempt to
10345harvest any saltwater product with intent to sell the saltwater
10346product.
10347     (a)  Any person, firm, or corporation who sells or
10348purchases any saltwater product without having purchased the
10349licenses required by this chapter for such sale is subject to
10350penalties as follows:
10351     1.  A first violation is a misdemeanor of the second
10352degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083.
10353     2.  A second violation is a misdemeanor of the first
10354degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083, and
10355such person may also be assessed a civil penalty of up to $2,500
10356and is subject to a suspension of all license privileges under
10357this chapter and chapter 372 for a period not exceeding 90 days.
10358     3.  A third violation is a misdemeanor of the first degree,
10359punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083, with a
10360mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 6 months, and such
10361person may also be assessed a civil penalty of up to $5,000 and
10362is subject to a suspension of all license privileges under this
10363chapter and chapter 372 for a period not exceeding 6 months.
10364     4.  A third violation within 1 year after a second
10365violation is a felony of the third degree, punishable as
10366provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083, with a mandatory minimum
10367term of imprisonment of 1 year, and such person shall be
10368assessed a civil penalty of $5,000 and all license privileges
10369under this chapter and chapter 372 shall be permanently revoked.
10370     5.  A fourth or subsequent violation is a felony of the
10371third degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s.
10372775.083, with a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 1
10373year, and such person shall be assessed a civil penalty of
10374$5,000 and all license privileges under this chapter and chapter
10375372 shall be permanently revoked.
10376     (b)  Any person whose license privileges under this chapter
10377have been permanently revoked and who thereafter sells or
10378purchases or who attempts to sell or purchase any saltwater
10379product commits a felony of the third degree, punishable as
10380provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083, with a mandatory minimum
10381term of imprisonment of 1 year, and such person shall also be
10382assessed a civil penalty of $5,000. All property involved in
10383such offense shall be forfeited pursuant to s. 379.337 370.061.
10384     (c)  Any commercial harvester or wholesale or retail dealer
10385whose license privileges under this chapter are under suspension
10386and who during such period of suspension sells or purchases or
10387attempts to sell or purchase any saltwater product shall be
10388assessed the following penalties:
10389     1.  A first violation, or a second violation occurring more
10390than 12 months after a first violation, is a first degree
10391misdemeanor, punishable as provided in ss. 775.082 and 775.083,
10392and such commercial harvester or wholesale or retail dealer may
10393be assessed a civil penalty of up to $2,500 and an additional
10394suspension of all license privileges under this chapter and
10395chapter 372 for a period not exceeding 90 days.
10396     2.  A second violation occurring within 12 months of a
10397first violation is a third degree felony, punishable as provided
10398in ss. 775.082 and 775.083, with a mandatory minimum term of
10399imprisonment of 1 year, and such commercial harvester or
10400wholesale or retail dealer may be assessed a civil penalty of up
10401to $5,000 and an additional suspension of all license privileges
10402under this chapter and chapter 372 for a period not exceeding
10403180 days. All property involved in such offense shall be
10404forfeited pursuant to s. 379.337 370.061.
10405     3.  A third violation within 24 months of the second
10406violation or subsequent violation is a third degree felony,
10407punishable as provided in ss. 775.082 and 775.083, with a
10408mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 1 year, and such
10409commercial harvester or wholesale or retail dealer shall be
10410assessed a mandatory civil penalty of up to $5,000 and an
10411additional suspension of all license privileges under this
10412chapter and chapter 372 for a period not exceeding 24 months.
10413All property involved in such offense shall be forfeited
10414pursuant to s. 379.337 370.061.
10415     (d)  Any commercial harvester who harvests or attempts to
10416harvest any saltwater product with intent to sell the saltwater
10417product without having purchased a saltwater products license
10418with the requisite endorsements is subject to penalties as
10419follows:
10420     1.  A first violation is a misdemeanor of the second
10421degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083.
10422     2.  A second violation is a misdemeanor of the first
10423degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083, and
10424such commercial harvester may also be assessed a civil penalty
10425of up to $2,500 and is subject to a suspension of all license
10426privileges under this chapter and chapter 372 for a period not
10427exceeding 90 days.
10428     3.  A third violation is a misdemeanor of the first degree,
10429punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083, with a
10430mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 6 months, and such
10431commercial harvester may also be assessed a civil penalty of up
10432to $5,000 and is subject to a suspension of all license
10433privileges under this chapter and chapter 372 for a period not
10434exceeding 6 months.
10435     4.  A third violation within 1 year after a second
10436violation is a felony of the third degree, punishable as
10437provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083, with a mandatory minimum
10438term of imprisonment of 1 year, and such commercial harvester
10439shall also be assessed a civil penalty of $5,000 and all license
10440privileges under this chapter and chapter 372 shall be
10441permanently revoked.
10442     5.  A fourth or subsequent violation is a felony of the
10443third degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s.
10444775.083, with a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 1
10445year, and such commercial harvester shall also be assessed a
10446mandatory civil penalty of $5,000 and all license privileges
10447under this chapter and chapter 372 shall be permanently revoked.
10448
10449For purposes of this subsection, a violation means any judicial
10450disposition other than acquittal or dismissal.
10451     (7)(11)  REVOCATION OF LICENSES.--Any person licensed under
10452this chapter who has been convicted of taking aquaculture
10453species raised at a certified facility shall have his or her
10454license revoked for 5 years by the commission pursuant to the
10455provisions and procedures of s. 120.60.
10456     (8)(12)  LICENSES AND ENTITIES SUBJECT TO PENALTIES.--For
10457purposes of imposing license or permit suspensions or
10458revocations authorized by this chapter, the license or permit
10459under which the violation was committed is subject to suspension
10460or revocation by the commission. For purposes of assessing
10461monetary civil or administrative penalties authorized by this
10462chapter, the commercial harvester cited and subsequently
10463receiving a judicial disposition of other than dismissal or
10464acquittal in a court of law is subject to the monetary penalty
10465assessment by the commission. However, if the license or
10466permitholder of record is not the commercial harvester receiving
10467the citation and judicial disposition, the license or permit may
10468be suspended or revoked only after the license or permitholder
10469has been notified by the commission that the license or permit
10470has been cited in a major violation and is now subject to
10471suspension or revocation should the license or permit be cited
10472for subsequent major violations.
10473     Section 176.  Section 372.84, Florida Statutes, is
10474renumbered as section 379.408, Florida Statutes, to read:
10475     379.408 372.84  Forfeiture or denial of licenses and
10476permits.--Any person convicted as aforesaid shall forfeit to the
10477state any license or permit that may have been issued to her or
10478him under the provisions of this law, or other law of this state
10479relating to game shall forthwith surrender the same to the
10480court. If such violation occurs in the open season, relating to
10481game, no license or permit shall be issued under the provisions
10482of this law to such person at any time during the remainder of
10483such open season, or if such violation occurs during the closed
10484season no license shall be issued to such person for the open
10485season on game next following.
10486     Section 177.  Section 372.663, Florida Statutes, is
10487renumbered as section 379.409, Florida Statutes, to read:
10488     379.409 372.663  Illegal killing, possessing, or capturing
10489of alligators or other crocodilia or eggs; confiscation of
10490equipment.--
10491     (1)  It is unlawful to intentionally kill, injure, possess,
10492or capture, or attempt to kill, injure, possess, or capture, an
10493alligator or other crocodilian, or the eggs of an alligator or
10494other crocodilian, unless authorized by the rules of the Fish
10495and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Any person who violates
10496this section is guilty of a felony of the third degree,
10497punishable as provided in s. 775.082, s. 775.083, or s. 775.084,
10498in addition to such other punishment as may be provided by law.
10499Any equipment, including but not limited to weapons, vehicles,
10500boats, and lines, used by a person in the commission of a
10501violation of any law, rule, regulation, or order relating to
10502alligators or other crocodilia or the eggs of alligators or
10503other crocodilia shall, upon conviction of such person, be
10504confiscated by the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and
10505disposed of according to rules and regulations of the
10506commission. The arresting officer shall promptly make a return
10507of the seizure, describing in detail the property seized and the
10508facts and circumstances under which it was seized, including the
10509names of all persons known to the officer who have an interest
10510in the property.
10511     (2)  The commission shall promptly fix the value of the
10512property and make return to the clerk of the circuit court of
10513the county wherein same was seized. Upon proper showing that any
10514such property is owned by, or titled in the name of, any
10515innocent party, such property shall be promptly returned to such
10516owner.
10517     (3)  The provisions of this section shall not vitiate any
10518valid lien, retain title contract, or chattel mortgage on such
10519property in effect as of the time of such seizure.
10520     Section 178.  Section 372.0725, Florida Statutes, is
10521renumbered as section 379.411, Florida Statutes, to read:
10522     379.411 372.0725  Killing or wounding of any species
10523designated as endangered, threatened, or of special concern;
10524criminal penalties.--It is unlawful for a person to
10525intentionally kill or wound any fish or wildlife of a species
10526designated by the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission as
10527endangered, threatened, or of special concern, or to
10528intentionally destroy the eggs or nest of any such fish or
10529wildlife, except as provided for in the rules of the commission.
10530Any person who violates this provision with regard to an
10531endangered or threatened species is guilty of a felony of the
10532third degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082, s. 775.083,
10533or s. 775.084.
10534     Section 179.  Section 372.671, Florida Statutes, is
10535renumbered as section 379.4115, Florida Statutes, and amended to
10536read:
10537     379.4115 372.671  Florida or wild panther; killing
10538prohibited; penalty.--
10539     (1)  It is unlawful for a person to kill a member of the
10540Florida "endangered species," as defined in s. 379.2291(3)
10541372.072(3), known as the Florida panther (Felis concolor coryi).
10542     (2)  It is unlawful for a person to kill any member of the
10543species of panther (Felis concolor) occurring in the wild.
10544     (3)  A person convicted of unlawfully killing a Florida
10545panther, or unlawfully killing any member of the species of
10546panther occurring in the wild, is guilty of a felony of the
10547third degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082, s. 775.083,
10548or s. 775.084.
10549     Section 180.  Section 370.1121, Florida Statutes, is
10550renumbered as section 379.413, Florida Statutes, and amended to
10551read:
10552     379.413 370.1121  Bonefish; penalties regulation.--
10553     (1)  It is unlawful to take or attempt to take any bonefish
10554(Albula vulpes) from any of the waters of the state for the
10555purpose of sale or exchange while fishing with any net, seine,
10556or similar device.
10557     (2)  It is unlawful for any wholesale or retail fish dealer
10558to possess, buy, sell, or store any bonefish or permit any
10559bonefish to be possessed, sold, or stored on, in, or about the
10560premises where such wholesale or retail fish business is carried
10561on or conducted. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, or
10562corporation to buy or sell bonefish in any form.
10563     (3)  A commercial harvester or wholesale or retail
10564saltwater products dealer who violates commission rules
10565pertaining to bonefish this section shall be punished under s.
10566379.407 370.021. Any other person who violates commission rules
10567pertaining to bonefish this section commits a Level Two
10568violation under s. 379.401 372.83.
10569     Section 181.  Section 379.414, Florida Statutes, is created
10570to read:
10571     379.414  Additional penalties for saltwater products
10572dealers violating records requirements.--
10573     (1)  The commission may revoke, suspend, or deny the
10574renewal of the license of any saltwater products dealer for
10575failure to make and keep records as required by s. 379.362, for
10576failure to make required reports, for failure or refusal to
10577permit the examination of required records, or for falsifying
10578any such record. In addition to other applicable penalties, or
10579in lieu of, the commission may impose against any person, firm,
10580or corporation who is determined to have violated any provision
10581of s. 379.362 or any provisions of any commission rules adopted
10582pursuant to s. 379.407, the following additional penalties:
10583     (a)  For the first violation, a civil penalty of up to
10584$1,000;
10585     (b)  For a second violation committed within 24 months of
10586any previous violation, a civil penalty of up to $2,500; and
10587     (c)  For a third or subsequent violation committed within
1058836 months of any previous two violations, a civil penalty of up
10589to $5,000.
10590     (2)  The proceeds of all civil penalties collected pursuant
10591to this section shall be deposited into the Marine Resources
10592Conservation Trust Fund and shall be used for administration,
10593auditing, and law enforcement purposes.
10594     Section 182.  Paragraph (a) of subsection (1) of section
1059572.011, Florida Statutes, is amended to read:
10596     72.011  Jurisdiction of circuit courts in specific tax
10597matters; administrative hearings and appeals; time for
10598commencing action; parties; deposits.--
10599     (1)(a)  A taxpayer may contest the legality of any
10600assessment or denial of refund of tax, fee, surcharge, permit,
10601interest, or penalty provided for under s. 125.0104, s.
10602125.0108, chapter 198, chapter 199, chapter 201, chapter 202,
10603chapter 203, chapter 206, chapter 207, chapter 210, chapter 211,
10604chapter 212, chapter 213, chapter 220, chapter 221, s.
10605379.362(3) 370.07(3), chapter 376, s. 403.717, s. 403.718, s.
10606403.7185, s. 538.09, s. 538.25, chapter 550, chapter 561,
10607chapter 562, chapter 563, chapter 564, chapter 565, chapter 624,
10608or s. 681.117 by filing an action in circuit court; or,
10609alternatively, the taxpayer may file a petition under the
10610applicable provisions of chapter 120. However, once an action
10611has been initiated under s. 120.56, s. 120.565, s. 120.569, s.
10612120.57, or s. 120.80(14)(b), no action relating to the same
10613subject matter may be filed by the taxpayer in circuit court,
10614and judicial review shall be exclusively limited to appellate
10615review pursuant to s. 120.68; and once an action has been
10616initiated in circuit court, no action may be brought under
10617chapter 120.
10618     Section 183.  Section 97.05831, Florida Statutes, is
10619amended to read:
10620     97.05831  Voter registration applications made available to
10621the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.--As required in
10622s. 379.352 372.561, each supervisor of elections shall supply
10623voter registration applications to the Fish and Wildlife
10624Conservation Commission and its subagents, as needed.
10625     Section 184.  Subsection (4) of section 125.01, Florida
10626Statutes, is amended to read:
10627     125.01  Powers and duties.--
10628     (4)  The legislative and governing body of a county shall
10629not have the power to regulate the taking or possession of
10630saltwater fish, as defined in s. 379.101 370.01, with respect to
10631the method of taking, size, number, season, or species. However,
10632this subsection does not prohibit a county from prohibiting, for
10633reasons of protecting the public health, safety, or welfare,
10634saltwater fishing from real property owned by that county, nor
10635does it prohibit the imposition of excise taxes by county
10636ordinance.
10637     Section 185.  Subsections (1) and (4) of section 142.01,
10638Florida Statutes, are amended to read:
10639     142.01  Fine and forfeiture fund; clerk of the circuit
10640court.--There shall be established by the clerk of the circuit
10641court in each county of this state a separate fund to be known
10642as the fine and forfeiture fund for use by the clerk of the
10643circuit court in performing court-related functions. The fund
10644shall consist of the following:
10645     (1)  Fines and penalties pursuant to ss. 28.2402(2),
1064634.045(2), 316.193, 327.35, 327.72, 379.2203(1) 372.72(1), and
10647775.083(1).
10648     (4)  Proceeds from forfeited bail bonds, unclaimed bonds,
10649unclaimed moneys, or recognizances pursuant to ss. 321.05(4)(a),
10650379.2203(1) 372.72(1), and 903.26(3)(a).
10651
10652Notwithstanding the provisions of this section, all fines and
10653forfeitures arising from operation of the provisions of s.
10654318.1215 shall be disbursed in accordance with that section.
10655     Section 186.  Paragraph (c) of subsection (5) of section
10656161.053, Florida Statutes, is amended to read:
10657     161.053  Coastal construction and excavation; regulation on
10658county basis.--
10659     (5)  Except in those areas where local zoning and building
10660codes have been established pursuant to subsection (4), a permit
10661to alter, excavate, or construct on property seaward of
10662established coastal construction control lines may be granted by
10663the department as follows:
10664     (c)  The department may condition the nature, timing, and
10665sequence of construction of permitted activities to provide
10666protection to nesting sea turtles and hatchlings and their
10667habitat, pursuant to s. 379.2431 370.12, and to native salt-
10668resistant vegetation and endangered plant communities.
10669     Section 187.  Subsection (11) of section 201.15, Florida
10670Statutes, is amended to read:
10671     201.15  Distribution of taxes collected.--All taxes
10672collected under this chapter shall be distributed as follows and
10673shall be subject to the service charge imposed in s. 215.20(1),
10674except that such service charge shall not be levied against any
10675portion of taxes pledged to debt service on bonds to the extent
10676that the amount of the service charge is required to pay any
10677amounts relating to the bonds:
10678     (11)  From the moneys specified in paragraphs (1)(e) and
10679(2)(a) and prior to deposit of any moneys into the General
10680Revenue Fund, $30 million shall be paid into the State Treasury
10681to the credit of the Ecosystem Management and Restoration Trust
10682Fund in fiscal year 2000-2001 and each fiscal year thereafter,
10683to be used for the preservation and repair of the state's
10684beaches as provided in ss. 161.091-161.212, $2 million shall be
10685paid into the State Treasury to the credit of the Marine
10686Resources Conservation Trust Fund to be used for marine mammal
10687care as provided in s. 379.208(3) 370.0603(3), and $300,000
10688shall be paid into the State Treasury to the credit of the
10689General Inspection Trust Fund in fiscal year 2006-2007 and each
10690fiscal year thereafter, to be used to fund oyster management and
10691restoration programs as provided in s. 379.362(3) 370.07(3).
10692     Section 188.  Paragraph (b) of subsection (8) of section
10693212.06, Florida Statutes, is amended to read:
10694     212.06  Sales, storage, use tax; collectible from dealers;
10695"dealer" defined; dealers to collect from purchasers;
10696legislative intent as to scope of tax.--
10697     (8)
10698     (b)  The presumption that tangible personal property used
10699in another state, territory of the United States, or the
10700District of Columbia for 6 months or longer before being
10701imported into this state was not purchased for use in this state
10702does not apply to any boat for which a saltwater fishing license
10703fee is required to be paid pursuant to s. 379.354(7) 372.57(7),
10704either directly or indirectly, for the purpose of taking,
10705attempting to take, or possessing any saltwater fish for
10706noncommercial purposes. Use tax shall apply and be due on such a
10707boat as provided in this paragraph, and proof of payment of such
10708tax must be presented prior to the first such licensure of the
10709boat, registration of the boat pursuant to chapter 328, and
10710titling of the boat pursuant to chapter 328. A boat that is
10711first licensed within 1 year after purchase shall be subject to
10712use tax on the full amount of the purchase price; a boat that is
10713first licensed in the second year after purchase shall be
10714subject to use tax on 90 percent of the purchase price; a boat
10715that is first licensed in the third year after purchase shall be
10716subject to use tax on 80 percent of the purchase price; a boat
10717that is first licensed in the fourth year after purchase shall
10718be subject to use tax on 70 percent of the purchase price; a
10719boat that is first licensed in the fifth year after purchase
10720shall be subject to use tax on 60 percent of the purchase price;
10721and a boat that is first licensed in the sixth year after
10722purchase, or later, shall be subject to use tax on 50 percent of
10723the purchase price. If the purchaser fails to provide the
10724purchase invoice on such boat, the fair market value of the boat
10725at the time of importation into this state shall be used to
10726compute the tax.
10727     Section 189.  Paragraph (h) of subsection (5) of section
10728212.08, Florida Statutes, is amended to read:
10729     212.08  Sales, rental, use, consumption, distribution, and
10730storage tax; specified exemptions.--The sale at retail, the
10731rental, the use, the consumption, the distribution, and the
10732storage to be used or consumed in this state of the following
10733are hereby specifically exempt from the tax imposed by this
10734chapter.
10735     (5)  EXEMPTIONS; ACCOUNT OF USE.--
10736     (h)  Business property used in an enterprise zone.--
10737     1.  Business property purchased for use by businesses
10738located in an enterprise zone which is subsequently used in an
10739enterprise zone shall be exempt from the tax imposed by this
10740chapter. This exemption inures to the business only through a
10741refund of previously paid taxes. A refund shall be authorized
10742upon an affirmative showing by the taxpayer to the satisfaction
10743of the department that the requirements of this paragraph have
10744been met.
10745     2.  To receive a refund, the business must file under oath
10746with the governing body or enterprise zone development agency
10747having jurisdiction over the enterprise zone where the business
10748is located, as applicable, an application which includes:
10749     a.  The name and address of the business claiming the
10750refund.
10751     b.  The identifying number assigned pursuant to s. 290.0065
10752to the enterprise zone in which the business is located.
10753     c.  A specific description of the property for which a
10754refund is sought, including its serial number or other permanent
10755identification number.
10756     d.  The location of the property.
10757     e.  The sales invoice or other proof of purchase of the
10758property, showing the amount of sales tax paid, the date of
10759purchase, and the name and address of the sales tax dealer from
10760whom the property was purchased.
10761     f.  Whether the business is a small business as defined by
10762s. 288.703(1).
10763     g.  If applicable, the name and address of each permanent
10764employee of the business, including, for each employee who is a
10765resident of an enterprise zone, the identifying number assigned
10766pursuant to s. 290.0065 to the enterprise zone in which the
10767employee resides.
10768     3.  Within 10 working days after receipt of an application,
10769the governing body or enterprise zone development agency shall
10770review the application to determine if it contains all the
10771information required pursuant to subparagraph 2. and meets the
10772criteria set out in this paragraph. The governing body or agency
10773shall certify all applications that contain the information
10774required pursuant to subparagraph 2. and meet the criteria set
10775out in this paragraph as eligible to receive a refund. If
10776applicable, the governing body or agency shall also certify if
1077720 percent of the employees of the business are residents of an
10778enterprise zone, excluding temporary and part-time employees.
10779The certification shall be in writing, and a copy of the
10780certification shall be transmitted to the executive director of
10781the Department of Revenue. The business shall be responsible for
10782forwarding a certified application to the department within the
10783time specified in subparagraph 4.
10784     4.  An application for a refund pursuant to this paragraph
10785must be submitted to the department within 6 months after the
10786tax is due on the business property that is purchased.
10787     5.  The amount refunded on purchases of business property
10788under this paragraph shall be the lesser of 97 percent of the
10789sales tax paid on such business property or $5,000, or, if no
10790less than 20 percent of the employees of the business are
10791residents of an enterprise zone, excluding temporary and part-
10792time employees, the amount refunded on purchases of business
10793property under this paragraph shall be the lesser of 97 percent
10794of the sales tax paid on such business property or $10,000. A
10795refund approved pursuant to this paragraph shall be made within
1079630 days of formal approval by the department of the application
10797for the refund. No refund shall be granted under this paragraph
10798unless the amount to be refunded exceeds $100 in sales tax paid
10799on purchases made within a 60-day time period.
10800     6.  The department shall adopt rules governing the manner
10801and form of refund applications and may establish guidelines as
10802to the requisites for an affirmative showing of qualification
10803for exemption under this paragraph.
10804     7.  If the department determines that the business property
10805is used outside an enterprise zone within 3 years from the date
10806of purchase, the amount of taxes refunded to the business
10807purchasing such business property shall immediately be due and
10808payable to the department by the business, together with the
10809appropriate interest and penalty, computed from the date of
10810purchase, in the manner provided by this chapter.
10811Notwithstanding this subparagraph, business property used
10812exclusively in:
10813     a.  Licensed commercial fishing vessels,
10814     b.  Fishing guide boats, or
10815     c.  Ecotourism guide boats
10816
10817that leave and return to a fixed location within an area
10818designated under s. 379.2353 370.28 are eligible for the
10819exemption provided under this paragraph if all requirements of
10820this paragraph are met. Such vessels and boats must be owned by
10821a business that is eligible to receive the exemption provided
10822under this paragraph. This exemption does not apply to the
10823purchase of a vessel or boat.
10824     8.  The department shall deduct an amount equal to 10
10825percent of each refund granted under the provisions of this
10826paragraph from the amount transferred into the Local Government
10827Half-cent Sales Tax Clearing Trust Fund pursuant to s. 212.20
10828for the county area in which the business property is located
10829and shall transfer that amount to the General Revenue Fund.
10830     9.  For the purposes of this exemption, "business property"
10831means new or used property defined as "recovery property" in s.
10832168(c) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954, as amended, except:
10833     a.  Property classified as 3-year property under s.
10834168(c)(2)(A) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954, as amended;
10835     b.  Industrial machinery and equipment as defined in sub-
10836subparagraph (b)6.a. and eligible for exemption under paragraph
10837(b);
10838     c.  Building materials as defined in sub-subparagraph
10839(g)8.a.; and
10840     d.  Business property having a sales price of under $5,000
10841per unit.
10842     10.  This paragraph expires on the date specified in s.
10843290.016 for the expiration of the Florida Enterprise Zone Act.
10844     Section 190.  Paragraph (o) of subsection (1) of section
10845213.053, Florida Statutes, is amended to read:
10846     213.053  Confidentiality and information sharing.--
10847     (1)  This section applies to:
10848     (o)  Section 379.362(3) 370.07(3), Apalachicola Bay oyster
10849surcharge;
10850     Section 191.  Paragraph (u) of subsection (4) of section
10851215.20, Florida Statutes, is amended to read:
10852     215.20  Certain income and certain trust funds to
10853contribute to the General Revenue Fund.--
10854     (4)  The income of a revenue nature deposited in the
10855following described trust funds, by whatever name designated, is
10856that from which the appropriations authorized by subsection (3)
10857shall be made:
10858     (u)  Within the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission:
10859     1.  The Conservation and Recreation Lands Program Trust
10860Fund.
10861     2.  The Florida Panther Research and Management Trust Fund.
10862     3.  The Land Acquisition Trust Fund.
10863     4.  The Marine Resources Conservation Trust Fund, with the
10864exception of those fees collected for recreational saltwater
10865fishing licenses as provided in s. 379.354 372.57.
10866
10867The enumeration of the foregoing moneys or trust funds shall not
10868prohibit the applicability thereto of s. 215.24 should the
10869Governor determine that for the reasons mentioned in s. 215.24
10870the money or trust funds should be exempt herefrom, as it is the
10871purpose of this law to exempt income from its force and effect
10872when, by the operation of this law, federal matching funds or
10873contributions or private grants to any trust fund would be lost
10874to the state.
10875     Section 192.  Subsection (6) of section 290.004, Florida
10876Statutes, is amended to read:
10877     290.004  Definitions relating to Florida Enterprise Zone
10878Act.--As used in ss. 290.001-290.016:
10879     (6)  "Rural enterprise zone" means an enterprise zone that
10880is nominated by a county having a population of 75,000 or fewer,
10881or a county having a population of 100,000 or fewer which is
10882contiguous to a county having a population of 75,000 or fewer,
10883or by a municipality in such a county, or by such a county and
10884one or more municipalities. An enterprise zone designated in
10885accordance with s. 290.0065(5)(b) or s. 379.2353 370.28 is
10886considered to be a rural enterprise zone.
10887     Section 193.  Paragraph (b) of subsection (1) and paragraph
10888(b) of subsection (24) and of section 320.08058, Florida
10889Statutes, are amended to read:
10890     320.08058  Specialty license plates.--
10891     (1)  MANATEE LICENSE PLATES.--
10892     (b)  The manatee license plate annual use fee must be
10893deposited into the Save the Manatee Trust Fund, created within
10894the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, and shall be used
10895only for the purposes specified in s. 379.2431(4) 370.12(4).
10896     (24)  CONSERVE WILDLIFE LICENSE PLATES.--
10897     (b)  The proceeds of the Conserve Wildlife license plate
10898annual use fee shall be forwarded to the Wildlife Foundation of
10899Florida, Inc., a citizen support organization created pursuant
10900to s. 379.223 372.0215.
10901     1.  Notwithstanding s. 320.08062, up to 10 percent of the
10902proceeds from the annual use fee may be used for marketing the
10903Conserve Wildlife license plate and administrative costs
10904directly related to the management and distribution of the
10905proceeds.
10906     2.  The remaining proceeds from the annual use fee shall be
10907used for programs and activities of the Fish and Wildlife
10908Conservation Commission that contribute to the health and well-
10909being of Florida black bears and other wildlife diversity.
10910     Section 194.  Paragraph (a) of subsection (5) of section
10911327.02, Florida Statutes, is amended to read:
10912     327.02  Definitions of terms used in this chapter and in
10913chapter 328.--As used in this chapter and in chapter 328, unless
10914the context clearly requires a different meaning, the term:
10915     (5)  "Commercial vessel" means:
10916     (a)  Any vessel primarily engaged in the taking or landing
10917of saltwater fish or saltwater products or freshwater fish or
10918freshwater products, or any vessel licensed pursuant to s.
10919379.361 370.06 from which commercial quantities of saltwater
10920products are harvested, from within and without the waters of
10921this state for sale either to the consumer, retail dealer, or
10922wholesale dealer.
10923     Section 195.  Subsection (2) of section 327.41, Florida
10924Statutes, is amended to read:
10925     327.41  Uniform waterway regulatory markers.--
10926     (2)  Any county or municipality which has been granted a
10927restricted area designation, pursuant to s. 327.46, for a
10928portion of the Florida Intracoastal Waterway within its
10929jurisdiction or which has adopted a restricted area by ordinance
10930pursuant to s. 327.22, s. 327.60, or s. 379.2431(2)(p)
10931370.12(2)(p), or any other governmental entity which has legally
10932established a restricted area, may apply to the commission for
10933permission to place regulatory markers within the restricted
10934area.
10935     Section 196.  Paragraph (k) of subsection (1) of section
10936327.73, Florida Statutes, is amended to read:
10937     327.73  Noncriminal infractions.--
10938     (1)  Violations of the following provisions of the vessel
10939laws of this state are noncriminal infractions:
10940     (k)  Violations relating to restricted areas and speed
10941limits:
10942     1.  Established by the commission pursuant to s. 327.46.
10943     2.  Established by local governmental authorities pursuant
10944to s. 327.22 or s. 327.60.
10945     3.  Speed limits established pursuant to s. 379.2431(2)
10946370.12(2).
10947
10948Any person cited for a violation of any such provision shall be
10949deemed to be charged with a noncriminal infraction, shall be
10950cited for such an infraction, and shall be cited to appear
10951before the county court. The civil penalty for any such
10952infraction is $50, except as otherwise provided in this section.
10953Any person who fails to appear or otherwise properly respond to
10954a uniform boating citation shall, in addition to the charge
10955relating to the violation of the boating laws of this state, be
10956charged with the offense of failing to respond to such citation
10957and, upon conviction, be guilty of a misdemeanor of the second
10958degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083. A
10959written warning to this effect shall be provided at the time
10960such uniform boating citation is issued.
10961     Section 197.  Subsection (1) of section 328.66, Florida
10962Statutes, is amended to read:
10963     328.66  County and municipality optional registration
10964fee.--
10965     (1)  Any county may impose an annual registration fee on
10966vessels registered, operated, or stored in the water within its
10967jurisdiction. This fee shall be 50 percent of the applicable
10968state registration fee. However, the first $1 of every
10969registration imposed under this subsection shall be remitted to
10970the state for deposit in the Save the Manatee Trust Fund created
10971within the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, and shall
10972be used only for the purposes specified in s. 379.2431(4)
10973370.12(4). All other moneys received from such fee shall be
10974expended for the patrol, regulation, and maintenance of the
10975lakes, rivers, and waters and for other boating-related
10976activities of such municipality or county. A municipality that
10977was imposing a registration fee before April 1, 1984, may
10978continue to levy such fee, notwithstanding the provisions of
10979this section.
10980     Section 198.  Subsections (11) and (16) of section 328.72,
10981Florida Statutes, are amended to read:
10982     328.72  Classification; registration; fees and charges;
10983surcharge; disposition of fees; fines; marine turtle stickers.--
10984     (11)  VOLUNTARY CONTRIBUTIONS.--The application form for
10985boat registration shall include a provision to allow each
10986applicant to indicate a desire to pay an additional voluntary
10987contribution to the Save the Manatee Trust Fund to be used for
10988the purposes specified in s. 379.2431(4) 370.12(4). This
10989contribution shall be in addition to all other fees and charges.
10990The amount of the request for a voluntary contribution solicited
10991shall be $2 or $5 per registrant. A registrant who provides a
10992voluntary contribution of $5 or more shall be given a sticker or
10993emblem by the tax collector to display, which signifies support
10994for the Save the Manatee Trust Fund. All voluntary contributions
10995shall be deposited in the Save the Manatee Trust Fund and shall
10996be used for the purposes specified in s. 379.2431(4) 370.12(4).
10997The form shall also include language permitting a voluntary
10998contribution of $5 per applicant, which contribution shall be
10999transferred into the Election Campaign Financing Trust Fund. A
11000statement providing an explanation of the purpose of the trust
11001fund shall also be included.
11002     (16)  MARINE TURTLE STICKER.--The Department of Highway
11003Safety and Motor Vehicles shall offer for sale with vessel
11004registrations a waterproof sticker in the shape of a marine
11005turtle at an additional cost of $5, the proceeds of which shall
11006be deposited in the Marine Resources Conservation Trust Fund to
11007be used for marine turtle protection, research, and recovery
11008efforts pursuant to the provisions of s. 379.2431(1) 370.12(1).
11009     Section 199.  Paragraph (a) of subsection (1) and
11010subsection (2) of section 328.76, Florida Statutes, are amended
11011to read:
11012     328.76  Marine Resources Conservation Trust Fund; vessel
11013registration funds; appropriation and distribution.--
11014     (1)  Except as otherwise specified in this subsection and
11015less $1.4 million for any administrative costs which shall be
11016deposited in the Highway Safety Operating Trust Fund, in each
11017fiscal year beginning on or after July 1, 2001, all funds
11018collected from the registration of vessels through the
11019Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles and the tax
11020collectors of the state, except for those funds designated as
11021the county portion pursuant to s. 328.72(1), shall be deposited
11022in the Marine Resources Conservation Trust Fund for recreational
11023channel marking; public launching facilities; law enforcement
11024and quality control programs; aquatic weed control; manatee
11025protection, recovery, rescue, rehabilitation, and release; and
11026marine mammal protection and recovery. The funds collected
11027pursuant to s. 328.72(1) shall be transferred as follows:
11028     (a)  In each fiscal year, an amount equal to $1.50 for each
11029commercial and recreational vessel registered in this state
11030shall be transferred by the Department of Highway Safety and
11031Motor Vehicles to the Save the Manatee Trust Fund and shall be
11032used only for the purposes specified in s. 379.2431(4)
11033370.12(4).
11034     (2)  All funds collected pursuant to s. 379.361(2)
11035370.06(2) shall be deposited in the Marine Resources
11036Conservation Trust Fund. Such funds shall be used to pay the
11037cost of implementing the saltwater products license program.
11038Additional proceeds from the licensing revenue shall be
11039distributed among the following program functions:
11040     (a)  No more than 15 percent shall go to marine law
11041enforcement;
11042     (b)  Twenty-five percent shall go to the Florida Saltwater
11043Products Promotion Trust Fund within the Department of
11044Agriculture and Consumer Services, on a monthly basis, for the
11045purpose of providing marketing and extension services including
11046industry information and education; and
11047     (c)  The remainder shall go to the Fish and Wildlife
11048Conservation Commission, for use in marine research and
11049statistics development, including quota management.
11050     Section 200.  Subsection (5) of section 373.046, Florida
11051Statutes, is amended to read:
11052     373.046  Interagency agreements.--
11053     (5)  Notwithstanding the provisions of s. 403.927, when any
11054operating agreement is developed pursuant to subsection (4), the
11055department shall have regulatory responsibility under part IV of
11056this chapter for aquaculture activities that meet or exceed the
11057thresholds for aquaculture general permits authorized pursuant
11058to ss. 379.2523 370.26 and 403.814.
11059     Section 201.  Paragraph (h) of subsection (2) of section
11060403.41315, Florida Statutes, is amended to read:
11061     403.41315  Comprehensive illegal dumping, litter, and
11062marine debris control and prevention.--
11063     (2)  The comprehensive illegal dumping, litter, and marine
11064debris control and prevention program at a minimum must include
11065the following:
11066     (h)  The prohibition of balloon releases as authorized
11067under s. 379.233 372.995.
11068     Section 202.  Paragraph (f) of subsection (2) of section
11069403.813, Florida Statutes, is amended to read:
11070     403.813  Permits issued at district centers; exceptions.--
11071     (2)  A permit is not required under this chapter, chapter
11072373, chapter 61-691, Laws of Florida, or chapter 25214 or
11073chapter 25270, 1949, Laws of Florida, for activities associated
11074with the following types of projects; however, except as
11075otherwise provided in this subsection, nothing in this
11076subsection relieves an applicant from any requirement to obtain
11077permission to use or occupy lands owned by the Board of Trustees
11078of the Internal Improvement Trust Fund or any water management
11079district in its governmental or proprietary capacity or from
11080complying with applicable local pollution control programs
11081authorized under this chapter or other requirements of county
11082and municipal governments:
11083     (f)  The performance of maintenance dredging of existing
11084manmade canals, channels, intake and discharge structures, and
11085previously dredged portions of natural water bodies within
11086drainage rights-of-way or drainage easements which have been
11087recorded in the public records of the county, where the spoil
11088material is to be removed and deposited on a self-contained,
11089upland spoil site which will prevent the escape of the spoil
11090material into the waters of the state, provided that no more
11091dredging is to be performed than is necessary to restore the
11092canals, channels, and intake and discharge structures, and
11093previously dredged portions of natural water bodies, to original
11094design specifications or configurations, provided that the work
11095is conducted in compliance with s. 379.2431(2)(d) 370.12(2)(d),
11096provided that no significant impacts occur to previously
11097undisturbed natural areas, and provided that control devices for
11098return flow and best management practices for erosion and
11099sediment control are utilized to prevent bank erosion and
11100scouring and to prevent turbidity, dredged material, and toxic
11101or deleterious substances from discharging into adjacent waters
11102during maintenance dredging. Further, for maintenance dredging
11103of previously dredged portions of natural water bodies within
11104recorded drainage rights-of-way or drainage easements, an entity
11105that seeks an exemption must notify the department or water
11106management district, as applicable, at least 30 days prior to
11107dredging and provide documentation of original design
11108specifications or configurations where such exist. This
11109exemption applies to all canals and previously dredged portions
11110of natural water bodies within recorded drainage rights-of-way
11111or drainage easements constructed prior to April 3, 1970, and to
11112those canals and previously dredged portions of natural water
11113bodies constructed on or after April 3, 1970, pursuant to all
11114necessary state permits. This exemption does not apply to the
11115removal of a natural or manmade barrier separating a canal or
11116canal system from adjacent waters. When no previous permit has
11117been issued by the Board of Trustees of the Internal Improvement
11118Trust Fund or the United States Army Corps of Engineers for
11119construction or maintenance dredging of the existing manmade
11120canal or intake or discharge structure, such maintenance
11121dredging shall be limited to a depth of no more than 5 feet
11122below mean low water. The Board of Trustees of the Internal
11123Improvement Trust Fund may fix and recover from the permittee an
11124amount equal to the difference between the fair market value and
11125the actual cost of the maintenance dredging for material removed
11126during such maintenance dredging. However, no charge shall be
11127exacted by the state for material removed during such
11128maintenance dredging by a public port authority. The removing
11129party may subsequently sell such material; however, proceeds
11130from such sale that exceed the costs of maintenance dredging
11131shall be remitted to the state and deposited in the Internal
11132Improvement Trust Fund.
11133     Section 203.  Paragraph (a) of subsection (5) and paragraph
11134(a) of subsection (18) of section 597.010, Florida Statutes, are
11135amended to read:
11136     597.010  Shellfish regulation; leases.--
11137     (5)  LEASES IN PERPETUITY; RENT.--
11138     (a)  All leases issued previously under the provisions of
11139s. 379.2525 370.16 shall be enforced under the authority of this
11140chapter, notwithstanding any other law to the contrary, and
11141shall continue in perpetuity under such restrictions as stated
11142in the lease agreement. The annual rental fee charged for all
11143leases shall consist of the minimum rate of $15 per acre, or any
11144fraction of an acre, per year and shall be adjusted on January
111451, 1995, and every 5 years thereafter, based on the 5-year
11146average change in the Consumer Price Index. Rent shall be paid
11147in advance of January 1 of each year or in the case of a new
11148lease at the time of signing, regardless of who holds the lease.
11149     (18)  REMOVING OYSTERS, CLAMS, OR MUSSELS FROM NATURAL
11150REEFS; LICENSES, ETC.; PENALTY.--
11151     (a)  It is unlawful to use a dredge or any means or
11152implement other than hand tongs in removing oysters from the
11153natural or artificial state reefs or beds. This restriction
11154shall apply to all areas of Apalachicola Bay for all shellfish
11155harvesting, excluding private grounds leased or granted by the
11156state prior to July 1, 1989, if the lease or grant specifically
11157authorizes the use of implements other than hand tongs for
11158harvesting. Except in Apalachicola Bay, upon the payment of $25
11159annually, for each vessel or boat using a dredge or machinery in
11160the gathering of clams or mussels, a special activity license
11161may be issued by the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
11162pursuant to subsection (15) or s. 379.361 370.06 for such use to
11163such person.
11164     Section 204.  Paragraphs (a), (d), and (e) of subsection
11165(4) of section 777.04, Florida Statutes, are amended to read:
11166     777.04  Attempts, solicitation, and conspiracy.--
11167     (4)(a)  Except as otherwise provided in ss. 104.091(2),
11168379.2431(1) 370.12(1), 828.125(2), 849.25(4), 893.135(5), and
11169921.0022, the offense of criminal attempt, criminal
11170solicitation, or criminal conspiracy is ranked for purposes of
11171sentencing under chapter 921 and determining incentive gain-time
11172eligibility under chapter 944 one level below the ranking under
11173s. 921.0022 or s. 921.0023 of the offense attempted, solicited,
11174or conspired to. If the criminal attempt, criminal solicitation,
11175or criminal conspiracy is of an offense ranked in level 1 or
11176level 2 under s. 921.0022 or s. 921.0023, such offense is a
11177misdemeanor of the first degree, punishable as provided in s.
11178775.082 or s. 775.083.
11179     (d)  Except as otherwise provided in s. 104.091(2), s.
11180379.2431(1) 370.12(1), s. 828.125(2), or s. 849.25(4), if the
11181offense attempted, solicited, or conspired to is a:
11182     1.  Felony of the second degree;
11183     2.  Burglary that is a felony of the third degree; or
11184     3.  Felony of the third degree ranked in level 3, 4, 5, 6,
111857, 8, 9, or 10 under s. 921.0022 or s. 921.0023,
11186
11187the offense of criminal attempt, criminal solicitation, or
11188criminal conspiracy is a felony of the third degree, punishable
11189as provided in s. 775.082, s. 775.083, or s. 775.084.
11190     (e)  Except as otherwise provided in s. 104.091(2), s.
11191379.2431(1) 370.12(1), s. 849.25(4), or paragraph (d), if the
11192offense attempted, solicited, or conspired to is a felony of the
11193third degree, the offense of criminal attempt, criminal
11194solicitation, or criminal conspiracy is a misdemeanor of the
11195first degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s.
11196775.083.
11197     Section 205.  Paragraph (h) of subsection (2) of section
11198810.09, Florida Statutes, is amended to read:
11199     810.09  Trespass on property other than structure or
11200conveyance.--
11201     (2)
11202     (h)  Any person who in taking or attempting to take any
11203animal described in s. 379.101(19) or (20) 372.001(10) or (11),
11204or in killing, attempting to kill, or endangering any animal
11205described in s. 585.01(13) knowingly propels or causes to be
11206propelled any potentially lethal projectile over or across
11207private land without authorization commits trespass, a felony of
11208the third degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082, s.
11209775.083, or s. 775.084. For purposes of this paragraph, the term
11210"potentially lethal projectile" includes any projectile launched
11211from any firearm, bow, crossbow, or similar tensile device. This
11212section does not apply to any governmental agent or employee
11213acting within the scope of his or her official duties.
11214     Section 206.  Paragraphs (b) and (c) of subsection (3) of
11215section 921.0022, Florida Statutes, are amended to read:
11216     921.0022  Criminal Punishment Code; offense severity
11217ranking chart.--
11218     (3)  OFFENSE SEVERITY RANKING CHART
11219     (b)  LEVEL 2
11220
 
FloridaStatuteFelonyDegreeDescription
11221
 
379.2431 (1)(e)3.370.12(1)(e)3.3rdPossession of 11 or fewer marine turtle eggs in violation of the Marine Turtle Protection Act.
11222
 
379.2431(1)(e)4.370.12(1)(e)4.3rdPossession of more than 11 marine turtle eggs in violation of the Marine Turtle Protection Act.
11223
 
403.413(5)(c)3rdDumps waste litter exceeding 500 lbs. in weight or 100 cubic feet in volume or any quantity for commercial purposes, or hazardous waste.
11224
 
517.073rdRegistration of securities and furnishing of prospectus required.
11225
 
590.28(1)3rdWillful, malicious, or intentional burning.
11226
 
784.05(3)3rdStoring or leaving a loaded firearm within reach of minor who uses it to inflict injury or death.
11227
 
787.04(1)3rdIn violation of court order, take, entice, etc., minor beyond state limits.
11228
 
806.13(1)(b)3.3rdCriminal mischief; damage $1,000 or more to public communication or any other public service.
11229
 
810.061(2)3rdImpairing or impeding telephone or power to a dwelling; facilitating or furthering burglary.
11230
 
810.09(2)(e)3rdTrespassing on posted commercial horticulture property.
11231
 
812.014(2)(c)1.3rdGrand theft, 3rd degree; $300 or more but less than $5,000.
11232
 
812.014(2)(d)3rdGrand theft, 3rd degree; $100 or more but less than $300, taken from unenclosed curtilage of dwelling.
11233
 
812.015(7)3rdPossession, use, or attempted use of an antishoplifting or inventory control device countermeasure.
11234
 
817.234(1)(a)2.3rdFalse statement in support of insurance claim.
11235
 
817.481(3)(a)3rdObtain credit or purchase with false, expired, counterfeit, etc., credit card, value over $300.
11236
 
817.52(3)3rdFailure to redeliver hired vehicle.
11237
 
817.543rdWith intent to defraud, obtain mortgage note, etc., by false representation.
11238
 
817.60(5)3rdDealing in credit cards of another.
11239
 
817.60(6)(a)3rdForgery; purchase goods, services with false card.
11240
 
817.613rdFraudulent use of credit cards over $100 or more within 6 months.
11241
 
826.043rdKnowingly marries or has sexual intercourse with person to whom related.
11242
 
831.013rdForgery.
11243
 
831.023rdUttering forged instrument; utters or publishes alteration with intent to defraud.
11244
 
831.073rdForging bank bills, checks, drafts, or promissory notes.
11245
 
831.083rdPossessing 10 or more forged notes, bills, checks, or drafts.
11246
 
831.093rdUttering forged notes, bills, checks, drafts, or promissory notes.
11247
 
831.113rdBringing into the state forged bank bills, checks, drafts, or notes.
11248
 
832.05(3)(a)3rdCashing or depositing item with intent to defraud.
11249
 
843.083rdFalsely impersonating an officer.
11250
 
893.13(2)(a)2.3rdPurchase of any s. 893.03(1)(c), (2)(c)1., (2)(c)2., (2)(c)3., (2)(c)5., (2)(c)6., (2)(c)7., (2)(c)8., (2)(c)9., (3), or (4) drugs other than cannabis.
11251
 
893.147(2)3rdManufacture or delivery of drug paraphernalia.
11252
11253     (c)  LEVEL 3
11254
 
FloridaStatuteFelonyDegreeDescription
11255
 
119.10(2)(b)3rdUnlawful use of confidential information from police reports.
11256
 
316.066(6)(b)-(d)3rdUnlawfully obtaining or using confidential crash reports.
11257
 
316.193(2)(b)3rdFelony DUI, 3rd conviction.
11258
 
316.1935(2)3rdFleeing or attempting to elude law enforcement officer in patrol vehicle with siren and lights activated.
11259
 
319.30(4)3rdPossession by junkyard of motor vehicle with identification number plate removed.
11260
 
319.33(1)(a)3rdAlter or forge any certificate of title to a motor vehicle or mobile home.
11261
 
319.33(1)(c)3rdProcure or pass title on stolen vehicle.
11262
 
319.33(4)3rdWith intent to defraud, possess, sell, etc., a blank, forged, or unlawfully obtained title or registration.
11263
 
327.35(2)(b)3rdFelony BUI.
11264
 
328.05(2)3rdPossess, sell, or counterfeit fictitious, stolen, or fraudulent titles or bills of sale of vessels.
11265
 
328.07(4)3rdManufacture, exchange, or possess vessel with counterfeit or wrong ID number.
11266
 
379.2431(1)(e)5.370.12(1)(e)5.3rdTaking, disturbing, mutilating, destroying, causing to be destroyed, transferring, selling, offering to sell, molesting, or harassing marine turtles, marine turtle eggs, or marine turtle nests in violation of the Marine Turtle Protection Act.
11267
 
379.2431(1)(e)6.370.12(1)(e)6.3rdSoliciting to commit or conspiring to commit a violation of the Marine Turtle Protection Act.
11268
 
376.302(5)3rdFraud related to reimbursement for cleanup expenses under the Inland Protection Trust Fund.
11269
 
400.903(3)3rdOperating a clinic without a license or filing false license application or other required information.
11270
 
440.1051(3)3rdFalse report of workers' compensation fraud or retaliation for making such a report.
11271
 
501.001(2)(b)2ndTampers with a consumer product or the container using materially false/misleading information.
11272
 
624.401(4)(a)3rdTransacting insurance without a certificate of authority.
11273
 
624.401(4)(b)1.3rdTransacting insurance without a certificate of authority; premium collected less than $20,000.
11274
 
626.902(1)(a) & (b)3rdRepresenting an unauthorized insurer.
11275
 
697.083rdEquity skimming.
11276
 
790.15(3)3rdPerson directs another to discharge firearm from a vehicle.
11277
 
796.05(1)3rdLive on earnings of a prostitute.
11278
 
806.10(1)3rdMaliciously injure, destroy, or interfere with vehicles or equipment used in firefighting.
11279
 
806.10(2)3rdInterferes with or assaults firefighter in performance of duty.
11280
 
810.09(2)(c)3rdTrespass on property other than structure or conveyance armed with firearm or dangerous weapon.
11281
 
812.014(2)(c)2.3rdGrand theft; $5,000 or more but less than $10,000.
11282
 
812.0145(2)(c)3rdTheft from person 65 years of age or older; $300 or more but less than $10,000.
11283
 
815.04(4)(b)2ndComputer offense devised to defraud or obtain property.
11284
 
817.034(4)(a)3.3rdEngages in scheme to defraud (Florida Communications Fraud Act), property valued at less than $20,000.
11285
 
817.2333rdBurning to defraud insurer.
11286
 
817.234(8)(b)-(c)3rdUnlawful solicitation of persons involved in motor vehicle accidents.
11287
 
817.234(11)(a)3rdInsurance fraud; property value less than $20,000.
11288
 
817.2363rdFiling a false motor vehicle insurance application.
11289
 
817.23613rdCreating, marketing, or presenting a false or fraudulent motor vehicle insurance card.
11290
 
817.413(2)3rdSale of used goods as new.
11291
 
817.505(4)3rdPatient brokering.
11292
 
828.12(2)3rdTortures any animal with intent to inflict intense pain, serious physical injury, or death.
11293
 
831.28(2)(a)3rdCounterfeiting a payment instrument with intent to defraud or possessing a counterfeit payment instrument.
11294
 
831.292ndPossession of instruments for counterfeiting drivers' licenses or identification cards.
11295
 
838.021(3)(b)3rdThreatens unlawful harm to public servant.
11296
 
843.193rdInjure, disable, or kill police dog or horse.
11297
 
860.15(3)3rdOvercharging for repairs and parts.
11298
 
870.01(2)3rdRiot; inciting or encouraging.
11299
 
893.13(1)(a)2.3rdSell, manufacture, or deliver cannabis (or other s. 893.03(1)(c), (2)(c)1., (2)(c)2., (2)(c)3., (2)(c)5., (2)(c)6., (2)(c)7., (2)(c)8., (2)(c)9., (3), or (4) drugs).
11300
 
893.13(1)(d)2.2ndSell, manufacture, or deliver s. 893.03(1)(c), (2)(c)1., (2)(c)2., (2)(c)3., (2)(c)5., (2)(c)6., (2)(c)7., (2)(c)8., (2)(c)9., (3), or (4) drugs within 1,000 feet of university.
11301
 
893.13(1)(f)2.2ndSell, manufacture, or deliver s. 893.03(1)(c), (2)(c)1., (2)(c)2., (2)(c)3., (2)(c)5., (2)(c)6., (2)(c)7., (2)(c)8., (2)(c)9., (3), or (4) drugs within 1,000 feet of public housing facility.
11302
 
893.13(6)(a)3rdPossession of any controlled substance other than felony possession of cannabis.
11303
 
893.13(7)(a)8.3rdWithhold information from practitioner regarding previous receipt of or prescription for a controlled substance.
11304
 
893.13(7)(a)9.3rdObtain or attempt to obtain controlled substance by fraud, forgery, misrepresentation, etc.
11305
 
893.13(7)(a)10.3rdAffix false or forged label to package of controlled substance.
11306
 
893.13(7)(a)11.3rdFurnish false or fraudulent material information on any document or record required by chapter 893.
11307
 
893.13(8)(a)1.3rdKnowingly assist a patient, other person, or owner of an animal in obtaining a controlled substance through deceptive, untrue, or fraudulent representations in or related to the practitioner's practice.
11308
 
893.13(8)(a)2.3rdEmploy a trick or scheme in the practitioner's practice to assist a patient, other person, or owner of an animal in obtaining a controlled substance.
11309
 
893.13(8)(a)3.3rdKnowingly write a prescription for a controlled substance for a fictitious person.
11310
 
893.13(8)(a)4.3rdWrite a prescription for a controlled substance for a patient, other person, or an animal if the sole purpose of writing the prescription is a monetary benefit for the practitioner.
11311
 
918.13(1)(a)3rdAlter, destroy, or conceal investigation evidence.
11312
 
944.47(1)(a)1.-2.3rdIntroduce contraband to correctional facility.
11313
 
944.47(1)(c)2ndPossess contraband while upon the grounds of a correctional institution.
11314
 
985.7213rdEscapes from a juvenile facility (secure detention or residential commitment facility).
11315
11316     Section 207.  Paragraph (e) of subsection (6) of section
11317932.7055, Florida Statutes, is amended to read:
11318     932.7055  Disposition of liens and forfeited property.--
11319     (6)  If the seizing agency is a state agency, all remaining
11320proceeds shall be deposited into the General Revenue Fund.
11321However, if the seizing agency is:
11322     (e)  The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, the
11323proceeds accrued pursuant to the provisions of the Florida
11324Contraband Forfeiture Act shall be deposited into the State Game
11325Trust Fund as provided in ss. 379.338, 379.339, and 379.3395
11326372.73, 372.9901, and 372.9904, into the Marine Resources
11327Conservation Trust Fund as provided in s. 379.337 370.061, or
11328into the commission's Federal Law Enforcement Trust Fund as
11329provided in s. 372.107, as applicable.
11330     Section 208.  Sections 370.0821, 370.09, 370.1105, 370.15,
11331370.154, 370.155, 372.001, 372.0225, 372.107, 372.27, 372.667,
11332372.98, 372.981, and 372.993, Florida Statutes, are repealed.
11333     Section 209.  This act shall take effect July 1, 2008.


CODING: Words stricken are deletions; words underlined are additions.