MS SB2958

Amends Section 49-15-315 of Mississippi Code to clarify that commercial harvesting of crabs, oysters, shrimp, bait shrimp, and saltwater fish is prohibited in marine waters north of the CSX bridge in the three coastal counties.

Permits persons to take euryhaline species of minnow and live bait shrimp in specified areas under department approval, including the West Pascagoula River System (Friday-Sunday, sunrise to sunset) and Back Bay of Biloxi (sunrise to noon).

Requires the Gulf Coast Research Laboratory to study estuaries and bays designated as nurseries and may recommend establishment of additional nursery grounds to protect state fishing resources.

Establishes penalties for violations as misdemeanor offenses with fines per Section 49-15-100(2), imprisonment up to three months, or both, plus seizure and forfeiture of commercial fishing equipment and boats.

Takes effect upon passage.