DE HB234

Adds definition of "lightering" to Delaware Code § 901 as the commercial transfer of material in bulk quantities exceeding 40 barrels between vessels within state territorial waters to reduce required channel depth.

Requires any person engaged in commercial lightering of petroleum products to obtain a license from the Department of Finance with an initial fee of $75 and annual renewal fee of $75.

Imposes an additional fee of $0.25 per barrel of petroleum product transferred, payable monthly by the 20th day of each month for the preceding month's transfers.

Requires licensees to submit monthly certified statements to the Department of Finance detailing aggregate petroleum products lightered and fees due.

Takes effect January 1, 2010.