H.B. 2583 Summary

• Establishes civil penalties for shark feeding, including impoundment and forfeiture of commercial marine vessels used in shark feeding activities.

• Imposes administrative fines, fees, and costs as penalties for shark feeding violations.

• Holds vessel owners financially responsible for all impoundment and disposal costs incurred by the Department of Land and Natural Resources when vessels are moored without authorization and not removed within the specified time period.

• Makes vessel owners liable for any mooring fees due on unauthorized moored vessels.

• Effective date: July 1, 2010.