A.__The long-term sustainability of the resource;

B.__The impact of harvesting on other fisheries; and

C.__The ability to enforce and administer the management program.

8.__Funding.__A fee may not be charged for an endorsement to harvest species in an emerging fishery.

SUMMARY

This bill establishes authority in the Department of Marine Resources to require an endorsement in conjunction with a commercial fishing license in the event a new or emerging fishery is begun as a means of initiating management to avoid development of the fishery beyond a sustainable level. It requires that the commissioner report the circumstance to the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over marine resources matters.