ATLANTA (March 5, 2012) – The Georgia Senate passed SB 464 unanimously on Monday. Sponsored by Sen. William Ligon (R-Brunswick), this legislation would limit the availability of new commercial crabbing licenses while also responsibly managing Georgia’s natural resources.
“I am pleased with the overwhelming bipartisan support that Senate Bill 464 received in the Senate today,” said Sen. Ligon. “This legislation will help protect the commercial crabbing industry in our state by balancing the economic impact of crabbing along Georgia’s coastline.”
State law currently prohibits and penalizes a person for commercially harvesting crabs without a license or intentionally damaging a crab trap/float.
Beginning on May 1, 2013, this legislation would limit the number of new crabbing licenses to 100. Licenses issued prior to this date will remain active until the time the license expires. However, licenses may be sold to non-license holders or transferred upon death of the license holder.
At its core, SB 464 strengthens penalties for those found guilty of licensure violations including: a three-month suspension for a first time offender; a six-month suspension for a second time offender; a permanent revocation of a licensure will be issued after a third or subsequent offense.
RELEASE
March 5, 2012
For Information Contact:
Natalie Dale, Director
Shawna Mercer,Sr. Communications Specialist
shawna.mercer@senate.ga.gov
404.656.0028