CT HB06222

Commissioner of Agriculture must review university marine research study results on appropriate minimum length for harvesting eastern oysters and submit recommendations to the General Assembly's environment committee by February 1, 2026

Recommendations must be based on scientific consultations regarding the minimum length that optimizes oyster health and the health of Connecticut's oyster beds

Food service establishments regulated under the public health code are exempted from bait dealer licensing requirements when purchasing bait species prepared as food for human consumption and not resold for other purposes (effective October 1, 2025)

Bait dealer licenses cost $63 annually, expire on December 31, and prohibit possession of live carp and goldfish on dealer premises to prevent invasive species spread

Violations of bait dealer regulations constitute a class D misdemeanor, and commissioner representatives may inspect premises and confiscate illegally possessed fish