MS HB1156

Allows boats or vessels using a purse seine to have redfish on board up to one percent (1%) by weight of the total catch, previously prohibited entirely.

Requires all boats or vessels using a purse seine to be equipped with a large fish excluder or similar equipment designed to reduce accidental redfish capture.

Maintains existing penalties of $100 fine per redfish possessed in violation, with nets used in violations subject to seizure and forfeiture.

Makes the master and owner of any vessel jointly and severally liable for penalties when redfish is possessed in violation of this section.

Takes effect July 1, 2016.