S.B. 818 Summary

• Transfer the aquaculture development program from the Department of Agriculture to the Agribusiness Development Corporation, providing support through the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism.

• Establish new aquaculture program provisions within the Agribusiness Development Corporation including monitoring industry activities, serving as information clearinghouse, coordinating development projects, seeking federal funding, and expanding the aquaculture industry.

• Create an aquaculture development special fund to receive appropriations, fees for diagnostic and expert services, sale proceeds from aquaculture items, grants and gifts, and interest income; fund disease management programs and research/development activities.

• Allow the corporation to establish and assess fees for aquatic animal and plant health diagnostics and expert services related to aquaculture planning, disease management, and seafood product marketing.

• Transfer all related employees, appropriations, records, equipment, and property from the Department of Agriculture to the Agribusiness Development Corporation; effective July 1, 2050.