NC S850

Establishes the Joint Legislative Commission on Fish and Wildlife, replacing the Joint Legislative Commission on Seafood and Aquaculture, composed of 8 Senate members and 8 House members appointed by their respective leaders with geographic diversity and minority party representation.

Grants the Commission power to monitor and evaluate fish and wildlife management programs by the Marine Fisheries Commission, Wildlife Resources Commission, and other state agencies, and to review state statutes, rules, and federal law affecting fish and wildlife management.

Authorizes the Commission to study fishing and hunting-related industries, make reports and recommendations to the General Assembly, and exercise powers of a joint committee under G.S. 120-19.

Transfers reporting duties from the Joint Legislative Commission on Seafood and Aquaculture to the new Joint Legislative Commission on Fish and Wildlife in multiple statutes governing fishery management plans, coastal habitat protection plans, and grant programs.

Takes effect January 1, 2013.