SB494 Summary

• Amends Section 9-11-84 of the Code of Alabama 1975 to add yellow perch raised in farm ponds to the list of game fish exempt from the prohibition on sale.

• Allows sale of yellow perch raised in farm ponds under the same conditions as largemouth bass, shellcracker, and bluegill bream, provided the seller obtains a permit from the Commissioner of the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.

• Maintains existing prohibition on selling wild-caught game fish while permitting sales of farm-raised yellow perch, hatchery fish for stocking purposes, and nonnative game fish raised for human consumption.

• Violations constitute a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of not less than $500 nor more than $1,000 for each offense.

• Act becomes effective on the first day of the third month following passage and approval by the Governor.