CT SB00095

Establishes a shellfish restoration program within the Department of Agriculture to purchase shell and cultch material for deposit on state shellfish beds, including management supplies and spawn oyster stock.

Authorizes the Commissioner of Agriculture to contract for shell recovery vessels and receive oyster shell recycling materials from department-administered programs.

Creates a "Shellfish Fund" to receive bond proceeds and private, state, or federal grants for the shellfish restoration program, with unused balances carried forward annually.

Reconstitutes the Connecticut Seafood Advisory Council as a "Development Council" with 13 members including government commissioners, aquaculture and fishing industry representatives, and restaurant industry representatives.

Grants the Development Council authority to receive and expend state, federal, and municipal funds for activities related to seafood production and promotion.

All provisions take effect October 1, 2020.