reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Florida Statutes › Title XXVIII - Natural Resources; Conservation, Reclamation, and Use › Chapter 379 - Fish and Wildlife Conservation › Part I - General Provisions (Ss. 379.101-379.237) › 379.211 - State Game Trust Fund.

379.211 State Game Trust Fund.—The funds resulting from the operation of the commission and from the administration of the laws and regulations pertaining to birds, game, fur-bearing animals, freshwater fish, reptiles, and amphibians, together with any other funds specifically provided for such purposes, shall constitute the State Game Trust Fund and shall be used by the commission as it shall deem fit, including the investment and reinvestment of the funds and the interest thereof, for the purpose of carrying out this section. The annual use fees deposited into the trust fund from the sale of the Largemouth Bass license plate may be expended for the purposes provided under s. 320.08058(17). The commission may not obligate itself beyond the current resources of the State Game Trust Fund unless specifically so authorized by the Legislature.
History.—s. 13, ch. 13644, 1929; s. 1, ch. 17016, 1935; CGL 1936 Supp. 1977(3); s. 7, ch. 22858, 1945; s. 14, ch. 2007-223; s. 78, ch. 2008-4; s. 20, ch. 2008-247; s. 4, ch. 2021-54.
Note.—Former s. 372.09.
2023 Florida Statutes › Title XXVIII - Natural Resources; Conservation, Reclamation, and Use › Chapter 379 - Fish and Wildlife Conservation › Part I - General Provisions (Ss. 379.101-379.237) › 379.212 - Land Acquisition Trust Fund.

379.212 Land Acquisition Trust Fund.—
(1)(a) There is established within the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission the Land Acquisition Trust Fund to implement s. 28, Art. X of the State Constitution.
(b) The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission or its designee shall manage such lands for the primary purpose of maintaining and enhancing their habitat value for fish and wildlife. Other uses may be allowed that are not contrary to this purpose.
(c) Where acquisition pursuant to this section will result in state ownership of land, title shall be vested in the Board of Trustees of the Internal Improvement Trust Fund as required in chapter 253. Land acquisition pursuant to this section shall be voluntary, negotiated acquisition and, where title is to be vested in the Board of Trustees of the Internal Improvement Trust Fund, is subject to the acquisition procedures of s. 253.025.
(d) Acquisition costs shall include purchase prices and costs and fees associated with title work, surveys, and appraisals required to complete an acquisition.
(2) The fund may be credited with funds transferred from the Land Acquisition Trust Fund within the Department of Environmental Protection as provided in s. 375.041.
(3) The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission shall maintain the integrity of such moneys transferred from the Department of Environmental Protection. Any transferred moneys available from reversions and reductions in budget authority shall be transferred back to the Land Acquisition Trust Fund in the Department of Environmental Protection within 15 days after such reversion or reduction and must be available for future appropriation pursuant to s. 28, Art. X of the State Constitution.
History.—s. 20, ch. 90-136; s. 10, ch. 90-217; s. 2, ch. 90-227; s. 20, ch. 94-240; s. 17, ch. 94-265; s. 124, ch. 99-245; s. 21, ch. 2008-247; s. 2, ch. 2013-22; s. 60, ch. 2015-229.
Note.—Former s. 372.074.
2023 Florida Statutes › Title XXVIII - Natural Resources; Conservation, Reclamation, and Use › Chapter 379 - Fish and Wildlife Conservation › Part I - General Provisions (Ss. 379.101-379.237) › 379.213 - Save the Manatee Trust Fund.

379.213 Save the Manatee Trust Fund.—
(1) The Save the Manatee Trust Fund shall be administered by the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
(2) The commission may invest and reinvest the funds and the interest thereof of the Save the Manatee Trust Fund. Funds to be credited to and uses of the trust fund shall be administered in accordance with ss. 320.08058, 328.66, 328.72, 328.74, 328.76, and 379.2431. The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission may receive donations for deposit into the Save the Manatee Trust Fund.
(3) Notwithstanding the provisions of s. 216.301 and pursuant to s. 216.351, any balance in the trust fund at the end of any fiscal year shall remain in the trust fund at the end of the year and shall be available for carrying out the purposes of the trust fund.
History.—s. 3, ch. 2013-22; s. 5, ch. 2021-54.
2023 Florida Statutes › Title XXVIII - Natural Resources; Conservation, Reclamation, and Use › Chapter 379 - Fish and Wildlife Conservation › Part I - General Provisions (Ss. 379.101-379.237) › 379.214 - Invasive Plant Control Trust Fund.

379.214 Invasive Plant Control Trust Fund.—
(1) The Invasive Plant Control Trust Fund shall be administered by the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
(2) The commission may invest and reinvest the funds and the interest thereof of the Invasive Plant Control Trust Fund. Funds to be credited to and uses of the trust fund shall be administered in accordance with ss. 206.606, 328.76, 369.20, 369.22, 369.252, and 379.502 and may also be used for commission administrative costs.
(3) Notwithstanding the provisions of s. 216.301 and pursuant to s. 216.351, any balance in the trust fund at the end of any fiscal year shall remain in the trust fund at the end of the year and shall be available for carrying out the purposes of the trust fund.
History.—s. 4, ch. 2013-22; s. 62, ch. 2015-229; s. 7, ch. 2021-54.
2023 Florida Statutes › Title XXVIII - Natural Resources; Conservation, Reclamation, and Use › Chapter 379 - Fish and Wildlife Conservation › Part I - General Provisions (Ss. 379.101-379.237) › 379.2201 - Deposit of license fees; allocation of federal funds.

379.2201 Deposit of license fees; allocation of federal funds.—
(1) Except as provided in ss. 379.203 and 379.207, all saltwater license and permit fees collected pursuant to s. 379.354 shall be deposited into the Marine Resources Conservation Trust Fund, to be used as follows:
(a) Not more than 7.5 percent of the total fees collected shall be used for administration of the licensing program and for information and education.
(b) Not less than 30 percent of the total fees collected shall be used for law enforcement.
(c) Not less than 32.5 percent of the total fees collected shall be used for marine research and management.
(d) Not less than 30 percent of the total fees collected, for fishery enhancement, including, but not limited to, fishery statistics development, artificial reefs, and fish hatcheries.
(2) The proceeds from recreational saltwater fishing license fees paid by fishers shall only be appropriated to the commission.
(3) Funds available from the Wallop-Breaux Aquatic Resources Trust Fund shall be distributed by the commission between freshwater fisheries management and research and marine fisheries management and research in proportion to the numbers of resident fresh and saltwater anglers as determined by the most current data on license sales. Unless otherwise provided by federal law, the commission, at a minimum, shall provide the following:
(a) Not less than 5 percent or more than 10 percent of the funds allocated to the commission shall be expended for an aquatic resources education program; and
(b) Not less than 10 percent of the funds allocated to the commission shall be expended for acquisition, development, renovation, or improvement of boating facilities.
History.—s. 7, ch. 89-270; s. 6, ch. 90-243; s. 13, ch. 91-78; s. 212, ch. 94-356; s. 985, ch. 95-148; s. 5, ch. 96-300; s. 25, ch. 96-321; s. 4, ch. 98-203; s. 42, ch. 99-245; s. 17, ch. 2002-46; s. 10, ch. 2004-264; s. 1, ch. 2007-337; s. 22, ch. 2008-247.
Note.—Former s. 370.0608; s. 372.5701.
2023 Florida Statutes › Title XXVIII - Natural Resources; Conservation, Reclamation, and Use › Chapter 379 - Fish and Wildlife Conservation › Part I - General Provisions (Ss. 379.101-379.237) › 379.2202 - Expenditure of funds.

379.2202 Expenditure of funds.—Any moneys available pursuant to s. 379.2201(1)(c) may be expended by the commission within Florida through grants and contracts for research with research institutions including but not limited to: Florida Sea Grant; Florida Marine Resources Council; Harbour Branch Oceanographic Institute; Fish and Wildlife Research Institute of the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission; Mote Marine Laboratory; Marine Resources Development Foundation; Florida Institute of Oceanography; Rosentiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science; and Smithsonian Marine Station at Ft. Pierce.
History.—s. 10, ch. 89-270; s. 213, ch. 94-356; s. 26, ch. 96-321; s. 240, ch. 99-245; s. 18, ch. 2002-46; s. 11, ch. 2004-264; s. 23, ch. 2008-247; s. 2, ch. 2013-235.
Note.—Former s. 370.0609; s. 372.5702.
2023 Florida Statutes › Title XXVIII - Natural Resources; Conservation, Reclamation, and Use › Chapter 379 - Fish and Wildlife Conservation › Part I - General Provisions (Ss. 379.101-379.237) › 379.2203 - Disposition of fines, penalties, and forfeitures.

379.2203 Disposition of fines, penalties, and forfeitures.—
(1) All moneys collected from fines, penalties, proceeds from unclaimed bonds, or forfeitures of bail of persons convicted under this chapter shall be deposited in the fine and forfeiture fund established pursuant to s. 142.01 where such convictions are had, except for the disposition of moneys as provided in subsection (2).
(2) All moneys collected from fines, penalties, or forfeitures of bail of persons convicted of violations of rules, regulations, or orders of the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission concerning endangered or threatened species or of violation of s. 379.3014, s. 379.409, or s. 379.4115 shall be remitted by the clerk of the court to the Department of Revenue to be deposited in the Nongame Wildlife Trust Fund.
History.—s. 12, ch. 13644, 1929; CGL 1936 Supp. 1977(12); s. 2, ch. 61-119; s. 1, ch. 70-370; s. 3, ch. 79-217; s. 2, ch. 81-191; s. 19, ch. 94-265; s. 156, ch. 99-245; s. 4, ch. 2000-153; s. 15, ch. 2001-122; s. 66, ch. 2004-265; s. 54, ch. 2005-236; s. 24, ch. 2008-247.
Note.—Former s. 372.72.
2023 Florida Statutes › Title XXVIII - Natural Resources; Conservation, Reclamation, and Use › Chapter 379 - Fish and Wildlife Conservation › Part I - General Provisions (Ss. 379.101-379.237) › 379.2213 - Management area permit revenues.

379.2213 Management area permit revenues.—The commission shall expend the revenue generated from the sale of the management area permit as provided for in s. 379.354(8)(g) or that pro rata portion of any license that includes management area privileges as provided for in s. 379.354(4)(h), (i), and (j) for the lease, management, and protection of lands for public hunting, fishing, and other outdoor recreation.
History.—ss. 1, 2, ch. 25463, 1949; s. 1, ch. 59-390; s. 1, ch. 72-337; s. 103, ch. 73-333; s. 2, ch. 76-67; s. 1, ch. 79-372; s. 2, ch. 80-180; s. 2, ch. 82-188; s. 8, ch. 85-235; s. 10, ch. 85-324; s. 2, ch. 86-158; s. 8, ch. 91-78; s. 7, ch. 96-265; s. 162, ch. 99-13; s. 24, ch. 2002-46; s. 4, ch. 2005-45; s. 19, ch. 2006-304; s. 23, ch. 2007-223; s. 27, ch. 2008-247; s. 54, ch. 2009-86.
Note.—Former s. 372.573.
2023 Florida Statutes › Title XXVIII - Natural Resources; Conservation, Reclamation, and Use › Chapter 379 - Fish and Wildlife Conservation › Part I - General Provisions (Ss. 379.101-379.237) › 379.2222 - Acquisition of state game lands.

379.2222 Acquisition of state game lands.—The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, with the approval of the Governor, may acquire, in the name of the state, lands and waters suitable for the protection and propagation of game, fish, nongame birds, or fur-bearing animals, or for hunting purposes, game farms, by purchase, lease, gift or otherwise to be known as state game lands. The said commission may erect such buildings and fences as may be deemed necessary to properly maintain and protect such lands, or for propagation of game, nongame birds, freshwater fish, or fur-bearing animals. The title of land acquired by purchase, lease, gift or otherwise, shall be approved by the Department of Legal Affairs. The deed to such lands shall be deposited as are deeds to other state lands. No property acquired under this section shall be exempt from state, county, or district taxation.
History.—ss. 6, 67, ch. 13644, 1929; CGL 1936 Supp. 1977(6), 1977 (67); s. 7, ch. 22858, 1945; s. 25, ch. 29615, 1955; ss. 11, 35, ch. 69-106; s. 127, ch. 99-245; s. 28, ch. 2008-247.
Note.—Former s. 372.12.
2023 Florida Statutes › Title XXVIII - Natural Resources; Conservation, Reclamation, and Use › Chapter 379 - Fish and Wildlife Conservation › Part I - General Provisions (Ss. 379.101-379.237) › 379.2223 - Control and management of state game lands.

379.2223 Control and management of state game lands.—
(1) The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is authorized to make, adopt, promulgate, amend, repeal, and enforce all reasonable rules and regulations necessary for the protection, control, operation, management, or development of lands or waters owned by, leased by, or otherwise assigned to, the commission for fish or wildlife management purposes, including, but not limited to, the right of ingress and egress. Before any such rule or regulation is adopted, other than one relating to wild animal life, marine life, or freshwater aquatic life, the commission shall obtain the consent and agreement, in writing, of the owner, in the case of privately owned lands or waters, or the owner or primary custodian, in the case of public lands or waters.
(2) A person who violates a rule or regulation adopted pursuant to this section is subject to penalties as provided in s. 379.401.
History.—s. 1, ch. 70-40; s. 306, ch. 71-136; s. 1, ch. 90-39; s. 128, ch. 99-245; s. 20, ch. 2000-197; s. 29, ch. 2008-247; s. 1, ch. 2016-107.
Note.—Former s. 372.121.
2023 Florida Statutes › Title XXVIII - Natural Resources; Conservation, Reclamation, and Use › Chapter 379 - Fish and Wildlife Conservation › Part I - General Provisions (Ss. 379.101-379.237) › 379.2224 - Preserves, refuges, etc., not tax-exempt.

379.2224 Preserves, refuges, etc., not tax-exempt.—No property acquired by purchase, lease, gift, contract to purchase or lease, or otherwise, under the provisions of this chapter, as state game lands, or any private lands used as game refuges, shooting grounds, privileges, hatcheries or breeding grounds for fish, game, birds or fur-bearing animals, except state-owned lands being used for the protection of game, fish or fur-bearing animals under the provisions of this chapter, shall be exempt from state, county or district taxation. Any contract, lease, gift or purchase of land for such purposes which attempts to exempt or partially exempt such property from taxation shall be null and void and of no effect.
History.—s. 67, ch. 13644, 1929; CGL 1936 Supp. 1977(67); s. 30, ch. 2008-247.
Note.—Former s. 372.19.
2023 Florida Statutes › Title XXVIII - Natural Resources; Conservation, Reclamation, and Use › Chapter 379 - Fish and Wildlife Conservation › Part I - General Provisions (Ss. 379.101-379.237) › 379.2225 - Everglades recreational sites; definitions.

379.2225 Everglades recreational sites; definitions.—
(1) PURPOSE.—It is the intent of the Legislature to provide for the development and management of recreational sites in the water conservation areas of the Florida Everglades when such development:
(a) Can be accomplished without endangering the water quality and quantity of supply and where environmental impact will be minimal.
(b) Is located on the exterior fringes of the Everglades to discourage extensive uncontrolled use of the interior regions.
(c) Is located where convenient access is possible for the millions of Floridians living in urban areas.
(d) Offers recreational potential for nature trails, bird study, picnic areas, boating, fishing, hunting, and target shooting.
(e) Is located where proper management and law enforcement can be provided.
(2) DEFINITIONS.—As used in this section:
(a) “Commission” means the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
(b) “Indian reservations” means lands as designated by chapter 285.
(c) “Development of recreational sites” means any improvements to existing facilities or sites and also such new selection and improvements as are needed for the various recreational activities as herein provided.
(3) RECREATIONAL SITES.—The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is directed to develop, manage, and enforce laws on certain recreational sites in the water conservation areas of the Everglades from funds to be appropriated by the Legislature.
(4) No recreational site will be developed on any Indian reservations as created by chapter 285 without first obtaining written approval for such development from the Indians of the particular reservation lands affected.
History.—ss. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, ch. 73-249; s. 1, ch. 77-174; s. 4, ch. 78-323; s. 25, ch. 83-85; s. 27, ch. 83-218; s. 15, ch. 95-146; s. 22, ch. 99-5; s. 118, ch. 99-245; s. 31, ch. 2008-247.
Note.—Former s. 372.025.
2023 Florida Statutes › Title XXVIII - Natural Resources; Conservation, Reclamation, and Use › Chapter 379 - Fish and Wildlife Conservation › Part I - General Provisions (Ss. 379.101-379.237) › 379.2231 - Additional assessment; Wildlife Alert Reward Association, Inc.

379.2231 Additional assessment; Wildlife Alert Reward Association, Inc.—
(1) As used in this section, the term “convicted” or “conviction” means any judicial disposition other than acquittal or dismissal.
(2) In addition to any other penalty provided by law, a court may order a person who is convicted of a violation of this chapter or of a rule or order of the commission to pay an assessment directly to Wildlife Alert Reward Association, Inc.
(3) Wildlife Alert Reward Association, Inc., may pay a reward, from the funds assessed pursuant to subsection (2), to a person who provides information leading to the arrest of an individual or individuals for a violation of this chapter or of a rule or order of the commission.
History.—s. 11, ch. 2019-93.
2023 Florida Statutes › Title XXVIII - Natural Resources; Conservation, Reclamation, and Use › Chapter 379 - Fish and Wildlife Conservation › Part I - General Provisions (Ss. 379.101-379.237) › 379.224 - Memorandum of agreement relating to Fish and Wildlife Research Institute.

379.224 Memorandum of agreement relating to Fish and Wildlife Research Institute.—A memorandum of agreement will be developed between the Department of Environmental Protection and the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission which will detail the responsibilities of the Fish and Wildlife Research Institute to the department, to include, at a minimum, the following services:
(1) Environmental monitoring and assessment.
(2) Restoration research and development of restoration technology.
(3) Technical support and response for oil spills, ship groundings, major marine species die-offs, hazardous spills, and natural disasters.
History.—s. 14, ch. 99-245; s. 4, ch. 2004-264; s. 33, ch. 2008-247.
Note.—Former s. 370.06091.
2023 Florida Statutes › Title XXVIII - Natural Resources; Conservation, Reclamation, and Use › Chapter 379 - Fish and Wildlife Conservation › Part I - General Provisions (Ss. 379.101-379.237) › 379.2251 - Agreements with Federal Government for the preservation of saltwater fisheries; authority of commission.

379.2251 Agreements with Federal Government for the preservation of saltwater fisheries; authority of commission.—The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is authorized and empowered to enter into cooperative agreements with the Federal Government or agencies thereof for the purpose of preserving saltwater fisheries within and without state waters and for the purpose of protecting against overfishing, waste, depletion, or any abuse whatsoever. Such authority includes the authority to enter into cooperative agreements whereby officers of the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission are empowered to enforce federal statutes and rules pertaining to fisheries management. When differences between state and federal laws occur, state laws shall take precedence.
History.—s. 1, ch. 83-225; s. 223, ch. 94-356; s. 244, ch. 99-245; s. 34, ch. 2008-247.
Note.—Former s. 370.103.
2023 Florida Statutes › Title XXVIII - Natural Resources; Conservation, Reclamation, and Use › Chapter 379 - Fish and Wildlife Conservation › Part I - General Provisions (Ss. 379.101-379.237) › 379.2252 - Compacts and agreements; generally.

379.2252 Compacts and agreements; generally.—The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission may enter into agreements of reciprocity with the fish commissioners or other departments or other proper officials of other states, whereby the citizens of the state may be permitted to take or catch shrimp or prawn from the waters under the jurisdiction of such other states, upon similar agreements to allow such nonresidents or aliens to fish for or catch seafood products within the jurisdiction of the state regardless of residence.
History.—s. 2, ch. 28145, 1953; ss. 25, 35, ch. 69-106; s. 237, ch. 94-356; s. 252, ch. 99-245; s. 35, ch. 2008-247.
Note.—Former s. 370.18.
2023 Florida Statutes › Title XXVIII - Natural Resources; Conservation, Reclamation, and Use › Chapter 379 - Fish and Wildlife Conservation › Part I - General Provisions (Ss. 379.101-379.237) › 379.2256 - Compact licensing and enforcement authority; administrative review.

379.2256 Compact licensing and enforcement authority; administrative review.—
(1) LICENSING AND ENFORCEMENT AUTHORITY.—For purposes of this act and the interstate Wildlife Violator Compact, the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is the licensing authority for the State of Florida and shall enforce the interstate Wildlife Violator Compact and shall do all things within the commission’s jurisdiction which are necessary to effectuate the purposes and the intent of the compact. The commission may execute a resolution of ratification to formalize the State of Florida’s entry into the compact. Upon adoption of the Wildlife Violator Compact, the commission may adopt rules to administer the provisions of the compact.
(2) ADMINISTRATIVE REVIEW.—Any action committed or omitted by the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission under or in the enforcement of the Wildlife Violator Compact created in s. 379.2255 is subject to review under chapter 120.
History.—s. 34, ch. 2006-304; s. 39, ch. 2008-247.
Note.—Former s. 372.8311.
2023 Florida Statutes › Title XXVIII - Natural Resources; Conservation, Reclamation, and Use › Chapter 379 - Fish and Wildlife Conservation › Part I - General Provisions (Ss. 379.101-379.237) › 379.2257 - Cooperative agreements with United States Forest Service; penalty.

379.2257 Cooperative agreements with United States Forest Service; penalty.—The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is authorized and empowered:
(1) To enter into cooperative agreements with the United States Forest Service for the development of game, bird, fish, reptile, or fur-bearing animal management and demonstration projects on and in the Osceola National Forest in Columbia and Baker Counties, and in the Ocala National Forest in Marion, Lake, and Putnam Counties and in the Apalachicola National Forest in Liberty County. Provided, however, that no such cooperative agreements shall become effective in any county concerned until confirmed by the board of county commissioners of such county expressed through appropriate resolution.
(2) In cooperation with the United States Forest Service, to make, adopt, promulgate, amend, and repeal rules and regulations, consistent with law, for the further or better control of hunting, fishing, and control of wildlife in the above National Forests or parts thereof; to shorten seasons and reduce bag limits, or shorten or close seasons on any species of game, bird, fish, reptile, or fur-bearing animal within the limits prescribed by the Florida law, in the above enumerated National Forests or parts thereof, when it shall find after investigation that such action is necessary to assure the maintenance of an adequate supply of wildlife.
(3) In addition to the requirements of chapter 120, notice of the making and adoption of rules and regulations pursuant to this section shall be given by posting the notices or copies of the rules and regulations in the offices of the county judges and in the post offices within the area to be affected and within 10 miles thereof. In addition to the posting of the notices, copies of the notices or rules and regulations shall be published in newspapers published at the county seats of Baker, Columbia, Marion, Lake, Putnam, and Liberty Counties, or so many thereof as have newspapers, once between 28 and 35 days and once between 14 and 21 days before the opening of the state hunting season in those areas. A person who violates any rules or regulations of the commission to manage such areas under cooperative agreements between the commission and the United States Forest Service is subject to penalties as provided in s. 379.401.
History.—ss. 1-4, 7, 8, ch. 17939, 1937; CGL 1940 Supp. 1977(117), 8135(9-a); s. 1, ch. 23090, 1945; s. 315, ch. 71-136; s. 16, ch. 78-95; s. 158, ch. 99-245; s. 40, ch. 2008-247; s. 5, ch. 2014-136; s. 2, ch. 2016-107.
Note.—Former s. 372.74.
2023 Florida Statutes › Title XXVIII - Natural Resources; Conservation, Reclamation, and Use › Chapter 379 - Fish and Wildlife Conservation › Part I - General Provisions (Ss. 379.101-379.237) › 379.2258 - Assent to provisions of Act of Congress of September 2, 1937.

379.2258 Assent to provisions of Act of Congress of September 2, 1937.—
(1) The state hereby assents to the provisions of the Act of Congress entitled “An Act to provide that the United States shall aid the States in Wildlife Restoration Projects, and for other purposes,” approved September 2, 1937 (Pub. L. No. 415, 75th Congress), and the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is hereby authorized, empowered, and directed to perform such acts as may be necessary to the conduct and establishment of cooperative wildlife restoration projects, as defined in said Act of Congress, in compliance with said act and rules and regulations promulgated by the Secretary of Agriculture thereunder.
(2) From and after the passage of this section it shall be unlawful to divert any funds accruing to the state from license fees paid by hunters for any purpose other than the administration of the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission of the state.
History.—ss. 1, 2, ch. 20223, 1941; s. 161, ch. 99-245; s. 41, ch. 2008-247.
Note.—Former s. 372.77.
2023 Florida Statutes › Title XXVIII - Natural Resources; Conservation, Reclamation, and Use › Chapter 379 - Fish and Wildlife Conservation › Part I - General Provisions (Ss. 379.101-379.237) › 379.2259 - Assent to federal acts.

379.2259 Assent to federal acts.—
(1) The state hereby assents to the provisions of the Federal Aid in Fish Restoration Act of August 9, 1950, as amended. The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission shall perform such activities as are necessary to conduct wildlife and sportfish restoration projects, as defined in such Act of Congress and in compliance with the act and rules adopted thereunder by the United States Department of the Interior. Furthermore, the commission shall develop and implement programs to manage, protect, restore, and conserve marine mammals and the marine fishery and shall develop and implement similar programs for wild animal life and freshwater aquatic life.
(2) Revenues from fees paid by hunters and sport fishers may not be diverted to purposes other than the administration of fish and wildlife programs by the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Administration of the state fish and wildlife programs includes only those functions of fish and wildlife management as are the responsibility of and under the authority of the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
(3) This section shall be construed in harmony with s. 379.2258.
History.—s. 8, ch. 90-243; s. 247, ch. 94-356; s. 1004, ch. 95-148; s. 162, ch. 99-245; s. 42, ch. 2008-247.
Note.—Former s. 372.7701.
2023 Florida Statutes › Title XXVIII - Natural Resources; Conservation, Reclamation, and Use › Chapter 379 - Fish and Wildlife Conservation › Part I - General Provisions (Ss. 379.101-379.237) › 379.2271 - Harmful-Algal-Bloom Task Force.

379.2271 Harmful-Algal-Bloom Task Force.—
(1) There is established a Harmful-Algal-Bloom Task Force for the purpose of determining research, monitoring, control, and mitigation strategies for red tide and other harmful algal blooms in Florida waters. The Fish and Wildlife Research Institute shall appoint to the task force scientists, engineers, economists, members of citizen groups, and members of government. The task force shall determine research and monitoring priorities and control and mitigation strategies and make recommendations to the Fish and Wildlife Research Institute for using funds as provided in this act.
(2) The Harmful-Algal-Bloom Task Force shall:
(a) Review the status and adequacy of information for monitoring physical, chemical, biological, economic, and public health factors affecting harmful algal blooms in Florida;
(b) Develop research and monitoring priorities for harmful algal blooms in Florida, including detection, prediction, mitigation, and control;
(c) Develop recommendations that can be implemented by state and local governments to develop a response plan and to predict, mitigate, and control the effects of harmful algal blooms; and
(d) Make recommendations to the Fish and Wildlife Research Institute for research, detection, monitoring, prediction, mitigation, and control of harmful algal blooms in Florida.
History.—s. 1, ch. 99-185; s. 5, ch. 2004-264; s. 44, ch. 2008-247.
Note.—Former s. 370.06092.
2023 Florida Statutes › Title XXVIII - Natural Resources; Conservation, Reclamation, and Use › Chapter 379 - Fish and Wildlife Conservation › Part I - General Provisions (Ss. 379.101-379.237) › 379.2272 - Harmful-algal-bloom program; implementation; goals; funding.

379.2272 Harmful-algal-bloom program; implementation; goals; funding.—
(1)(a) The Fish and Wildlife Research Institute shall implement a program designed to increase the knowledge of factors that control harmful algal blooms, including red tide, and to gain knowledge to be used for the early detection of factors precipitating harmful algal blooms for accurate prediction of the extent and seriousness of harmful algal blooms and for undertaking successful efforts to control and mitigate the effects of harmful algal blooms.
(b) The Legislature intends that this program enhance and address areas that are not adequately covered in the cooperative federal-state program known as Ecology and Oceanography of Harmful Algal Blooms (ECOHAB-Florida), which includes the University of South Florida, the Mote Marine Laboratory, and the Fish and Wildlife Research Institute.
(c) The goal of this program is to enable resource managers to assess the potential for public health damage and economic damage from a given bloom and to undertake control and mitigation efforts through the development and application of an integrated detection and prediction network for monitoring and responding to the development and movement of harmful algal blooms in Florida marine and estuarine waters.
(2) A financial disbursement program is created within the Fish and Wildlife Research Institute to implement the provisions of this act. Under the program, the institute shall provide funding and technical assistance to government agencies, research universities, coastal local governments, and organizations with scientific and technical expertise for the purposes of harmful-algal-bloom research, economic impact study, monitoring, detection, control, and mitigation. The program may be funded from state, federal, and private contributions.
History.—s. 2, ch. 99-185; s. 6, ch. 2004-264; s. 45, ch. 2008-247.
Note.—Former s. 370.06093.
2023 Florida Statutes › Title XXVIII - Natural Resources; Conservation, Reclamation, and Use › Chapter 379 - Fish and Wildlife Conservation › Part I - General Provisions (Ss. 379.101-379.237) › 379.2281 - Jim Woodruff Dam; reciprocity agreements.

379.2281 Jim Woodruff Dam; reciprocity agreements.—The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission of the state is hereby authorized to enter into an agreement of the reciprocity with the game and fish commissioners or the appropriate officials or departments of the State of Georgia and the State of Alabama relative to the taking of game and freshwater fish from the waters of the lake created by the Jim Woodruff Dam by permitting reciprocal license privileges.
History.—s. 1, ch. 57-193; s. 175, ch. 99-245; s. 46, ch. 2008-247.
Note.—Former s. 372.97.
2023 Florida Statutes › Title XXVIII - Natural Resources; Conservation, Reclamation, and Use › Chapter 379 - Fish and Wildlife Conservation › Part I - General Provisions (Ss. 379.101-379.237) › 379.2282 - St. Marys River; reciprocity agreements.

379.2282 St. Marys River; reciprocity agreements.—The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission of the state is hereby authorized to enter into an agreement of reciprocity with the game and fish commissioner or the appropriate officials or departments of the State of Georgia relative to the taking of game and freshwater fish from the waters of the St. Marys River by permitting reciprocal agreement license privileges.
History.—s. 1, ch. 61-523; s. 176, ch. 99-245; s. 47, ch. 2008-247.
Note.—Former s. 372.971.
2023 Florida Statutes › Title XXVIII - Natural Resources; Conservation, Reclamation, and Use › Chapter 379 - Fish and Wildlife Conservation › Part I - General Provisions (Ss. 379.101-379.237) › 379.2292 - Endangered and Threatened Species Reward Program.

379.2292 Endangered and Threatened Species Reward Program.—
(1) There is established within the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission the Endangered and Threatened Species Reward Program, to be funded from the Nongame Wildlife Trust Fund. The commission may post rewards to persons responsible for providing information leading to the arrest and conviction of persons illegally killing or wounding or wrongfully possessing any of the endangered and threatened species listed on the official Florida list of such species maintained by the commission or the arrest and conviction of persons who violate s. 379.4115. Additional funds may be provided by donations from interested individuals and organizations. The reward program is to be administered by the commission. The commission shall establish a schedule of rewards.
(2) The commission may expend funds only for the following purposes:
(a) The payment of rewards to persons, other than law enforcement officers, commission personnel, and members of their immediate families, for information as specified in subsection (1); or
(b) The promotion of public recognition and awareness of the Endangered and Threatened Species Reward Program.
History.—s. 2, ch. 79-217; s. 29, ch. 83-218; s. 18, ch. 94-265; s. 49, ch. 99-245; s. 49, ch. 2008-247.
Note.—Former s. 372.073.
2023 Florida Statutes › Title XXVIII - Natural Resources; Conservation, Reclamation, and Use › Chapter 379 - Fish and Wildlife Conservation › Part I - General Provisions (Ss. 379.101-379.237) › 379.23 - Federal conservation of fish and wildlife; limited jurisdiction.

379.23 Federal conservation of fish and wildlife; limited jurisdiction.—
(1) Consent of the State of Florida is hereby given, to the United States for acquisition of lands, waters, or lands and waters or interests therein, for the purpose of managing, protecting and propagating fish and wildlife and for other conservation uses in the state, providing prior notice has been given by the Federal Government to the Board of Trustees of the Internal Improvement Trust Fund, the board of county commissioners of the county where the lands proposed for purchase are located, of such proposed action stating the specific use to be made of and the specific location and description of such lands desired by the Federal Government for any such conservation use, and that such plans for acquisition and use of said lands be approved by the Board of Trustees of the Internal Improvement Trust Fund, the board of county commissioners of the county where the lands proposed for purchase are located; provided further that nothing herein contained shall be construed to give the consent of the State of Florida to the acquisition by the United States of lands, waters, or lands and waters, or interests therein, through exercise of the power of eminent domain; provided further that the provisions of this act shall not apply to lands owned by the several counties or by public corporations.
(2) The United States may exercise concurrent jurisdiction over lands so acquired and carry out the intent and purpose of the authority except that the existing laws of Florida relating to the Department of Environmental Protection or the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission shall prevail relating to any area under their supervision.
History.—ss. 1, 2, ch. 61-242; s. 2, ch. 61-119; ss. 25, 27, 35, ch. 69-106; s. 248, ch. 94-356; s. 163, ch. 99-245; s. 50, ch. 2008-247.
Note.—Former s. 372.771.
2023 Florida Statutes › Title XXVIII - Natural Resources; Conservation, Reclamation, and Use › Chapter 379 - Fish and Wildlife Conservation › Part I - General Provisions (Ss. 379.101-379.237) › 379.231 - Regulation of nonnative animals.

379.231 Regulation of nonnative animals.—
(1) It is unlawful to import for sale or use, or to release within this state, any species of the animal kingdom not native to Florida unless authorized by the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
(2) A person in violation of this section commits a Level Three violation under s. 379.4015.
History.—s. 1, ch. 70-145; s. 308, ch. 71-136; s. 2, ch. 71-294; s. 2, ch. 80-129; s. 131, ch. 99-245; s. 23, ch. 2006-304; s. 51, ch. 2008-247; s. 1, ch. 2010-185.
Note.—Former s. 372.265.
2023 Florida Statutes › Title XXVIII - Natural Resources; Conservation, Reclamation, and Use › Chapter 379 - Fish and Wildlife Conservation › Part I - General Provisions (Ss. 379.101-379.237) › 379.2311 - Nonnative animal management.

379.2311 Nonnative animal management.—
(1) As used in this section, the term “priority invasive species” means the following:
(a) Lizards of the genus Tupinambis, also known as tegu lizards;
(b) Species identified in s. 379.372(2)(a);
(c) Pterois volitans, also known as red lionfish; and
(d) Pterois miles, also known as the common lionfish or devil firefish.
(2) The Legislature finds that priority invasive species continue to expand their range and to decimate the fauna and flora of the Everglades and other natural areas and ecosystems in the southern and central parts of the state at an accelerating rate. Therefore, the commission shall establish a pilot program to mitigate the impact of priority invasive species on the public lands or waters of this state.
(a) The goal of the pilot program is to examine the benefits of using strategically deployed, trained private contractors to slow the advance of priority invasive species, contain their populations, and eradicate them from this state.
(b) In implementing the pilot program, the commission may enter into contracts in accordance with chapter 287 with entities or individuals to capture or destroy animals belonging to priority invasive species found on public lands or in the waters of this state. Any private contracted work to be performed on public land or in the waters of the state not owned or managed by the commission must have the consent of the owner.
(c) The commission shall ensure that all captures and disposals of animals that belong to these priority invasive species are documented and photographed and that the geographic location of the take is recorded for research purposes. The commission shall direct the disposal of all animals captured and not destroyed in removal efforts.
History.—s. 1, ch. 2018-82; s. 4, ch. 2020-123; s. 35, ch. 2022-4.
2023 Florida Statutes › Title XXVIII - Natural Resources; Conservation, Reclamation, and Use › Chapter 379 - Fish and Wildlife Conservation › Part I - General Provisions (Ss. 379.101-379.237) › 379.233 - Release of balloons.

379.233 Release of balloons.—
(1) The Legislature finds that the release into the atmosphere of large numbers of balloons inflated with lighter-than-air gases poses a danger and nuisance to the environment, particularly to wildlife and marine animals.
(2) It is unlawful for any person, firm, or corporation to intentionally release, organize the release, or intentionally cause to be released within a 24-hour period 10 or more balloons inflated with a gas that is lighter than air except for:
(a) Balloons released by a person on behalf of a governmental agency or pursuant to a governmental contract for scientific or meteorological purposes;
(b) Hot air balloons that are recovered after launching;
(c) Balloons released indoors; or
(d) Balloons that are either biodegradable or photodegradable, as determined by rule of the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, and which are closed by a hand-tied knot in the stem of the balloon without string, ribbon, or other attachments. In the event that any balloons are released pursuant to the exemption established in this paragraph, the party responsible for the release shall make available to any law enforcement officer evidence of the biodegradability or photodegradability of said balloons in the form of a certificate executed by the manufacturer. Failure to provide said evidence shall be prima facie evidence of a violation of this act.
(3) Any person who violates subsection (2) is guilty of a noncriminal infraction, punishable by a fine of $250.
(4) Any person may petition the circuit court to enjoin the release of 10 or more balloons if that person is a citizen of the county in which the balloons are to be released.
History.—s. 1, ch. 89-113; s. 186, ch. 99-245; s. 53, ch. 2008-247.
Note.—Former s. 372.995.
2023 Florida Statutes › Title XXVIII - Natural Resources; Conservation, Reclamation, and Use › Chapter 379 - Fish and Wildlife Conservation › Part I - General Provisions (Ss. 379.101-379.237) › 379.2341 - Publications by the commission.

379.2341 Publications by the commission.—The commission is given authority, from time to time in its discretion, to cause the statutory laws under its jurisdiction, together with any rules promulgated by it, to be published in pamphlet form for free distribution in this state. The commission is authorized to make charges for technical and educational publications and mimeographed material of use for educational or reference purposes. Such charges shall be made at the discretion of the commission. Such charges may be sufficient to cover cost of preparation, printing, publishing, and distribution. All moneys received for publications shall be deposited into the fund from which the cost of the publication was paid. The commission is further authorized to enter into agreements with persons, firms, corporations, governmental agencies, and other institutions whereby publications may be exchanged reciprocally in lieu of payments for said publications.
History.—s. 2, ch. 61-231; s. 220, ch. 81-259; s. 11, ch. 90-310; s. 2, ch. 98-227; s. 95, ch. 99-245; s. 1, ch. 2002-264; s. 54, ch. 2008-247.
Note.—Former s. 370.021(7).
2023 Florida Statutes › Title XXVIII - Natural Resources; Conservation, Reclamation, and Use › Chapter 379 - Fish and Wildlife Conservation › Part I - General Provisions (Ss. 379.101-379.237) › 379.2352 - State employment; priority consideration for qualified displaced employees of the saltwater fishing industry.

379.2352 State employment; priority consideration for qualified displaced employees of the saltwater fishing industry.—All state agencies must give priority consideration to any job applicant who is able to document the loss of full-time employment in the commercial saltwater fishing industry as a result of the adoption of the constitutional amendment limiting the use of nets to harvest marine species, provided the applicant meets the minimum requirements for the position sought.
History.—s. 5, ch. 95-414; s. 57, ch. 2008-247.
Note.—Former s. 370.27.
2023 Florida Statutes › Title XXVIII - Natural Resources; Conservation, Reclamation, and Use › Chapter 379 - Fish and Wildlife Conservation › Part I - General Provisions (Ss. 379.101-379.237) › 379.236 - Retention, destruction, and reproduction of commission records.

379.236 Retention, destruction, and reproduction of commission records.—Records and documents of the commission created in compliance with and in the implementation of this chapter or former chapter 370, former chapter 371, or former chapter 372 shall be retained by the commission as specified in record retention schedules established under the general provisions of chapters 119 and 257. Such records retained by the Department of Environmental Protection on July 1, 1999, shall be transferred to the commission. Further, the commission is authorized to:
(1) Destroy, or otherwise dispose of, those records and documents in conformity with the approved retention schedules.
(2) Photograph, microphotograph, or reproduce such records and documents on film, as authorized and directed by the approved retention schedules, whereby each page will be exposed in exact conformity with the original records and documents retained in compliance with the provisions of this section. Photographs or microphotographs in the form of film or print of any records, made in compliance with the provisions of this section, shall have the same force and effect as the originals thereof would have and shall be treated as originals for the purpose of their admissibility in evidence. Duly certified or authenticated reproductions of such photographs or microphotographs shall be admitted in evidence equally with the original photographs or microphotographs. The impression of the seal of the commission on a certificate made pursuant to the provisions hereof and signed by the executive director of the commission shall entitle the same to be received in evidence in all courts and in all proceedings in this state and shall be prima facie evidence of all factual matters set forth in the certificate. A certificate may relate to one or more records, as set forth in the certificate, or in a schedule continued on an attachment to the certificate.
(3) Furnish certified copies of such records for a fee of $1 which shall be deposited in the Marine Resources Conservation Trust Fund.
History.—s. 2, ch. 61-231; s. 1, ch. 80-356; s. 86, ch. 91-221; s. 197, ch. 94-356; s. 2, ch. 98-227; s. 95, ch. 99-245; s. 1, ch. 2002-264; s. 59, ch. 2008-247.
Note.—Former s. 370.021(9).
2023 Florida Statutes › Title XXVIII - Natural Resources; Conservation, Reclamation, and Use › Chapter 379 - Fish and Wildlife Conservation › Part I - General Provisions (Ss. 379.101-379.237) › 379.237 - Courts of equity may enjoin.

379.237 Courts of equity may enjoin.—Courts of equity in this state have jurisdiction to enforce the conservation laws of this state by injunction.
History.—s. 2, ch. 61-231; s. 2, ch. 98-227; s. 95, ch. 99-245; s. 1, ch. 2002-264; s. 60, ch. 2008-247.
Note.—Former s. 370.021(10).