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GA HB966
Bill
Status
Passed
8/5/2020
Primary Sponsor
James Burchett
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AI Summary
- Sellers of saw palmetto berries (fruit of Serenoa repens) must obtain and present a certificate of harvest signed by the landowner to any saw palmetto berry dealer, including the landowner's contact information, authorized harvester details, and harvest dates and location, valid for up to one year
- All persons involved in procuring palmetto berries must maintain detailed records of transactions—including weights, payment documentation, and copies of personal identification—for at least two years from the date of harvest
- The State Forestry Commission director and law enforcement may issue stop harvest, stop sale, stop use, or removal orders and seize berries obtained or offered for sale in violation of the article, with court-ordered condemnation and disposal available through superior court
- Violations involving berries valued under $1,500 are a misdemeanor punishable by a fine up to $1,000 or up to 12 months in jail; violations involving $1,500 or more are a felony punishable by a fine of $1,500–$5,000 or up to three years imprisonment, with restitution to the landowner also available
- Landowners harvesting saw palmetto berries for home or personal use are exempt from the article's requirements
Legislative Description
Conservation and natural resources; regulate the harvest and sale of palmetto berries
Last Action
Effective Date
8/5/2020
Full Bill Text
No bill text available