2.__Noncommercial licenses.__Notwithstanding the age requirements of section 6421, subsection 5-B, a person who holds a noncommercial license and is less than 8 years of age on October 31, 2003 may continue to be issued a noncommercial license subject to the examination and licensure requirements of section 6421, subsection 5-B.

3.__Violation.__A person who violates this section commits a civil violation for which a fine of not less than $100 nor more than $500 may be adjudged.

Sec. 6. 12 MRSA §6422, sub-§1, as amended by PL 1999, c. 490, §2, is further amended to read:

1. Program established; experience component. By July 1, 1996, the commissioner shall establish by rule an apprentice program for entry into the lobster fishery. The program must include practical lobster fishing experience. A person must be 8 years of age or older and hold an apprentice lobster and crab fishing license or a student lobster and crab fishing license under section 6421 to enter the program.

Sec. 7. Appropriations and allocations. The following appropriations and allocations are made.

MARINE RESOURCES, DEPARTMENT OF

Division of Administrative Services 0258

Initiative: Deappropriates funds for operational expenses.

General Fund 2003-04 2004-05

All Other ($1,271) ($1,271)

__________ __________

General Fund Total ($1,271) ($1,271)