SB49 Summary

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

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

• Maintains existing exemptions for game fish raised in hatcheries sold for stocking purposes and nonnative game fish raised for human consumption.

• Preserves the right of private pond owners to charge fishermen based on the number or pounds of fish caught from their ponds.

• Establishes violations as misdemeanors with fines ranging from $500 to $1,000 per offense; becomes effective on the first day of the third month following passage and approval.