FL H0449

Prohibits possession, sale, trade, purchase, shipping, barter, exchange, or distribution of shark fins in Florida or its territorial waters, effective July 1, 2014.

Establishes second-degree misdemeanor penalties under Florida Statutes sections 775.082 and 775.083, with administrative fines of $5,000 to $15,000 imposed by the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

Requires seizure and forfeiture of shark fins, which must be destroyed and cannot be sold or transferred; violators may also be assessed administrative fees and attorney fees and costs.

Exempts restaurants possessing shark fins before July 1, 2014 for on-premises consumption, persons preparing lawfully landed sharks who immediately dispose of fins without sale, entities with valid scientific permits for research or education, and shark fins transported through the state by common carrier without unloading.

Authorizes the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission to adopt administrative rules.