reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Louisiana Laws › Revised Statutes › Title 56 - Wildlife and Fisheries › §56:499.4. Night shrimping; inside waters; Vermilion Bay; East and West Cote Blanche Bays; Atchafalaya Bay; exceptions; prohibition

RS 56:499.4 - Night shrimping; inside waters; Vermilion Bay; East and West Cote Blanche Bays; Atchafalaya Bay; exceptions; prohibition
No person shall take shrimp at night, from one-half hour after official sunset until one-half hour before official sunrise, from the inside waters of Vermilion Bay, West Cote Blanche Bay, East Cote Blanche Bay, and Atchafalaya Bay, from the western shore of Vermilion Bay to the western shore of the Atchafalaya River and the Atchafalaya River Ship Channel out to Eugene Island, as described by the inside-outside line in R.S. 56:495, except that night shrimping shall be allowed in the waters of Southwest Pass at Marsh Island south of a line drawn from the following points: the most southeastward point of Southwest Pass at 29 degrees 36 minutes 47 seconds north latitude, 92 degrees 00 minutes 32 seconds west longitude east southeast to the Green Light Channel Marker Number 21 at 29 degrees 36 minutes 44 seconds north latitude, 92 degrees 00 minutes 21 seconds west longitude; thence northeast to a point located at 29 degrees 37 minutes 34 seconds north latitude, 91 degrees 59 minutes 36 seconds west longitude; thence southeast to the western shore of Big Charles Bayou at 29 degrees 36 minutes 43 seconds north latitude, 91 degrees 59 minutes 17 seconds west longitude.
Acts 1995, No. 509, §1, eff. June 18, 1995; Acts 2008, No. 16, §1.
2023 Louisiana Laws › Revised Statutes › Title 56 - Wildlife and Fisheries › §56:500. Recreational possession limit; gear

RS 56:500 - Recreational possession limit; gear
A. A recreational fisherman may, in open waters in open season, with a valid basic fishing license and a saltwater fishing license or an equivalent license that grants both basic fishing and saltwater fishing privileges use a trawl not to exceed twenty-five feet and may take no more than an aggregate of two hundred fifty pounds of shrimp per day to each boat, regardless of the number of persons thereon, provided the shrimp taken are used for bait or for the fisherman's own consumption and are not sold, traded, or otherwise permitted to enter into commerce.
B. A recreational fisherman may use a castnet not to exceed eight feet six inches in radius; a bait seine with a maximum mesh size not to exceed one-quarter inch mesh bar, one-half inch mesh stretched, and thirty feet in length; or a dip net not to exceed three feet in diameter to take saltwater shrimp. A recreational fisherman shall, at any time, take no more than fifty pounds of saltwater shrimp during closed season nor shall he take more than one hundred pounds of saltwater shrimp during open season, in the aggregate, per day, for each boat or land vehicle, regardless of the number of persons thereon, provided that the saltwater shrimp taken are used for bait or for the fisherman's own consumption and are not sold, traded, or otherwise permitted to enter into commerce.
Amended by Acts 1952, No. 627, §1; Acts 1958, No. 53, §7, emerg. eff. June 24, 1958; Acts 1979, No. 284, §1; Acts 1981, No. 492, §1; Acts 1981, No. 837, §3. H.C.R. No. 19, 1983 R.S.; Acts 1984, No. 693, §1; Acts 1984, No. 295, §1, §2, eff. July 1, 1984; Acts 1984, No. 230, §1, eff. June 29, 1984; Acts 1984, No. 299, §1; Acts 1984, No. 628, §1; H.C.R. No. 37, 1984 R.S.; Acts 1986, No. 904, §3; Acts 1987, No. 570, §1, eff. July 9, 1987; Acts 1987, No. 570, §2, eff. May 1, 1988; Acts 1991, No. 871, §1; Acts 1992, No. 54, §1; Acts 1993, No. 81, §1; Acts 1999, No. 181, §1; Acts 2003, No. 323, §1; Acts 2004, No. 161, §1; Acts 2021, No. 356, §3, eff. June 1, 2022.
NOTE: SEE ACTS 1986, NO. 904, §5.
2023 Louisiana Laws › Revised Statutes › Title 56 - Wildlife and Fisheries › §56:501. Commercial taking of freshwater shrimp

RS 56:501 - Commercial taking of freshwater shrimp
A. A properly licensed commercial fisherman may take freshwater shrimp in accordance with this Section.
B.(1) Freshwater shrimp may be taken in the Mississippi River and Intracoastal Waterway and only within one and one-half miles of the boat ramp adjacent to the Port Allen locks in either stream.
(2) A person shrimping pursuant to this Subsection shall use a wire net with a one-quarter inch bar and a maximum length of six feet. The net shall be marked with a one gallon jug painted international orange and displaying the words "Freshwater Shrimp" in black letters. In addition to a commercial fishing license, a fisherman fishing pursuant to this Subsection shall possess a freshwater shrimp net license issued pursuant to R.S. 56:305(B)(1)(d).
(3) Only freshwater shrimp may be taken; all other species shall be immediately returned to the waters from which they were taken. A commercial fisherman shall not possess any other fish while fishing pursuant to this Subsection.
C. The Wildlife and Fisheries Commission may adopt rules and regulations authorizing the commercial taking of freshwater shrimp in areas in addition to those specified in Subsection B of this Section. Such rules and regulations shall specify the gear that may be used, licenses that are required in such areas, and any restrictions on the possession of other species of fish.
D. Freshwater shrimp may be taken from January first through December thirty-first; however, the Wildlife and Fisheries Commission may adopt rules and regulations modifying season times and dates based on biological or technical data.
E. A violation of any provision of this Section or a rule adopted pursuant thereto constitutes a class two violation.
Acts 2004, No. 126, §1, eff. Nov. 15, 2004; Acts 2021, No. 356, §2, eff. Nov. 15, 2021.
2023 Louisiana Laws › Revised Statutes › Title 56 - Wildlife and Fisheries › §56:502. Manifest of cargo of vessel carrying shrimp

RS 56:502 - Manifest of cargo of vessel carrying shrimp
All vessels transporting shrimp shall keep in writing a manifest of their cargo, a copy of which shall be filed on each trip with the dealer or processor to which delivery is made and a copy sent to the department. The manifest and records are open to inspection by the department. Statements giving the date, quantity, point of origin of each lot, and from whom purchased and to whom delivered shall be sent to the department on forms furnished for the purpose not later than the tenth of the month following date of delivery.
Acts 1984, No. 230, §1, eff. June 29, 1984; Acts 1991, No. 294, §1.
2023 Louisiana Laws › Revised Statutes › Title 56 - Wildlife and Fisheries › §56:507. Penalty for violation of Subpart

RS 56:507 - Penalty for violation of Subpart
A. Anyone who violates a Section of this Subpart for which no penalty has been given has committed a class three violation.
B. In addition to all other penalties provided by law, an agent shall seize any shrimp or parts or products thereof in the possession of a person violating the laws of this Subpart by taking shrimp in closed season. Any such seized shrimp shall be forfeited and subject to immediate disposition in accordance with rules and regulations adopted by the commission pursuant to the disposition of seized and forfeited perishables.
Amended by Acts 1950, No. 544, §1; Acts 1958, No. 53, §9; Acts 1981, No. 837, §3; Acts 1988, No. 959, §1.
2023 Louisiana Laws › Revised Statutes › Title 56 - Wildlife and Fisheries › §56:508. §§508 to 513 Repealed by Acts 1985, No. 876, §4, eff. July 23, 1985.

RS 56:508 - §§508 to 513 Repealed by Acts 1985, No. 876, §4, eff. July 23, 1985.
2023 Louisiana Laws › Revised Statutes › Title 56 - Wildlife and Fisheries › §56:514. §§514 to 521 Repealed by Acts 1958, No. 53, §14, eff. June 24, 1958

RS 56:514 - §§514 to 521 Repealed by Acts 1958, No. 53, §14, eff. June 24, 1958
2023 Louisiana Laws › Revised Statutes › Title 56 - Wildlife and Fisheries › §56:522. §§522, 523 Repealed by Acts 1985, No. 876, §4, eff. July 23, 1985.

RS 56:522 - §§522, 523 Repealed by Acts 1985, No. 876, §4, eff. July 23, 1985.
2023 Louisiana Laws › Revised Statutes › Title 56 - Wildlife and Fisheries › §56:524. §§524, 525 Repealed by Acts 1958, No. 53, §14, eff. June 24, 1958

RS 56:524 - §§524, 525 Repealed by Acts 1958, No. 53, §14, eff. June 24, 1958
2023 Louisiana Laws › Revised Statutes › Title 56 - Wildlife and Fisheries › §56:551. Harvest and sale of crabs

RS 56:551 - Harvest and sale of crabs
A. Harvest and sale of crabs produced in private artificial earthen reservoirs may be carried out at the time desired by the grower, and with seines or tackle selected by the owner. Commercial fish farm producers shall be entitled to transport, without restriction, on the public roads and highways of this state any and all equipment, except any electric fish shocking devices, necessary for the harvest of domesticated fish produced in privately owned waters.
B. The fish farmer may harvest and sell any species of crab or other crustacea that has been grown or stored in his private artificial reservoirs with prior approval of the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission and under the regulation established by the Commission.
C. The provisions of this section shall not apply to the Parish of Orleans.
Added by Acts 1970, No. 309, §§1, 2. Amended by Acts 1981, No. 838, §1.
2023 Louisiana Laws › Revised Statutes › Title 56 - Wildlife and Fisheries › §56:555. §§555, 556 Repealed by Acts 1985, No. 876, §4, eff. July 23, 1985.

RS 56:555 - §§555, 556 Repealed by Acts 1985, No. 876, §4, eff. July 23, 1985.
2023 Louisiana Laws › Revised Statutes › Title 56 - Wildlife and Fisheries › §56:557. Disposition of moneys received

RS 56:557 - Disposition of moneys received
All moneys collected under the provisions of this Sub-part from fines paid for violation of the provisions of this Sub-part shall be remitted to the department not later than the tenth of the month following collection and shall be deposited by the department in the state treasury to the credit of the department's fund.
2023 Louisiana Laws › Revised Statutes › Title 56 - Wildlife and Fisheries › §56:559. §§559, 560 Repealed by Acts 1985, No. 876, §4, eff. July 23, 1985.

RS 56:559 - §§559, 560 Repealed by Acts 1985, No. 876, §4, eff. July 23, 1985.
2023 Louisiana Laws › Revised Statutes › Title 56 - Wildlife and Fisheries › §56:571. Underutilized species; policy and purpose; permits; fees; rules and regulations

RS 56:571 - Underutilized species; policy and purpose; permits; fees; rules and regulations
A. Recognizing the value of the seafood industry to the economy of the state of Louisiana, recognizing that the seafood industry employs hundreds of Louisiana citizens, thereby decreasing unemployment and the burden unemployment places on the state fisc, and further recognizing that the commercial fishing industry is in danger of collapsing as an industry due to escalating fuel prices, governmental regulations which have increased competition for limited state resources from non-Louisiana residents, and from rising costs of labor, fishing gear, and supplies, it is the policy and purpose of this Subpart to provide every method of encouragement and assistance to the commercial fishermen of the state of Louisiana, to protect a culture and heritage that is unique to Louisiana, to prevent unemployment of Louisiana citizens, to assure adequate food for Louisiana citizens, and to provide for economic stability in those areas of Louisiana so dependent on the seafood industry. To that end, the state shall foster and encourage its seafood industries.
B. The secretary of the department may issue permits to persons who are interested in the development of new fisheries designed to harvest underutilized species and to persons who are interested in the development of new gear and equipment to harvest fish and other aquatic species inside all fresh water and all salt water areas of the state. Permits issued pursuant to this Subsection shall be limited in duration to one year and shall be subject to monitoring, review, and suspension or revocation for cause by the secretary.
C. The secretary shall promulgate rules and regulations according to the Louisiana Administrative Procedure Act as set forth in Chapter 13 of Title 49 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes of 1950, to be submitted to and approved by the respective legislative standing committees on natural resources and shall assess reasonable administrative fees for the issuance of permits and tags for equipment and gear.
D. Violation of any of the provisions of this Section constitutes a class 2-B violation.
Amended by Acts 1978, No. 331, §1; Acts 1980, No. 834, §1; Acts 1981, No. 478, §1; Acts 1983, No. 712, §1; Acts 1992, No. 528, §1, eff. June 29, 1992; Acts 2021, No. 241, §1.
2023 Louisiana Laws › Revised Statutes › Title 56 - Wildlife and Fisheries › §56:572. Legality of contracts

RS 56:572 - Legality of contracts
To the end that the seafood industries of this state may prosper and may not be destroyed, no contract or agreement which is designed or intended to promote the advancement and welfare of such industries shall be held to be illegal as a contract, conspiracy, or combination in restraint of trade nor shall the parties to the contract or agreement be penalized or enjoined as trusts, monopolies, conspirators, or combinations in restraint of trade, if the contract or agreement has been approved in writing by the secretary.
Amended by Acts 1981, No. 736, §1.
2023 Louisiana Laws › Revised Statutes › Title 56 - Wildlife and Fisheries › §56:573. Approval of contracts

RS 56:573 - Approval of contracts
The secretary may examine contracts and agreements relative to seafood and the products thereof and to the seafood industry submitted to him and approve in writing such contracts as in his opinion will promote the advancement and welfare of the seafood industries of the state.
Amended by Acts 1981, No. 736, §1.
2023 Louisiana Laws › Revised Statutes › Title 56 - Wildlife and Fisheries › §56:575. Rules, applications

RS 56:575 - Rules, applications
The secretary of the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries shall promulgate rules and regulations, in accordance with the Administrative Procedure Act, which shall provide for a formula to determine the amount which each owner of a commercial fishing vessel shall receive to compensate for the increased costs of vessel fuel. Said formula shall take into consideration the amount of the fund for each fiscal year, the number of commercial vessels licensed by the department, the size of the vessel, the number of crew members employed on each vessel, and the average yearly catch per vessel. The regulations shall provide for the procedures to be used for application to the fund for assistance and the method of disbursement from the fund. These rules and regulations shall be subject to approval by the Senate Committee on Natural Resources and the House Committee on Natural Resources and Environment.
Added by Acts 1980, No. 834, §2; Acts 2008, No. 580, §7.
2023 Louisiana Laws › Revised Statutes › Title 56 - Wildlife and Fisheries › §56:576. Disbursements

RS 56:576 - Disbursements
Disbursements from the fund shall be made once each fiscal year as provided by rules of the department. The department shall set a date which shall be at the end of the primary fishing season as the cut off date for determination of compensation from the fund for each vessel. No compensation shall be paid to a person who is not a Louisiana resident.
Added by Acts 1980, No. 834, §2.
2023 Louisiana Laws › Revised Statutes › Title 56 - Wildlife and Fisheries › §56:577. Other powers and duties

RS 56:577 - Other powers and duties
The secretary of the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries shall have the power to perform any and all acts, and to prescribe, issue, make, amend, and rescind such orders, rules, and regulations as are deemed necessary and proper to carry out the purposes of this Sub-Part, and which are not otherwise provided for herein.
Added by Acts 1980, No. 834, §2.
2023 Louisiana Laws › Revised Statutes › Title 56 - Wildlife and Fisheries › §56:578.1. Purposes

RS 56:578.1 - Purposes
A. Recognizing that the commercial fishing industry in Louisiana has reached an ebb economically, creating an environment which has or could place, not only commercial fishermen, but also wholesale and retail dealers in dire economic straits, which situation could have an extreme economic impact on the state economy as a whole if nothing is done to alleviate the situation, and recognizing that there exist barriers and impediments to the economic well-being of the commercial fishery industry in Louisiana and recognizing that among these barriers and impediments, the virtual void in this state of any cohesive, coordinated and comprehensive seafood promotion and marketing effort and stratagem has a significant negative impact on the seafood industry, the Legislature of Louisiana does hereby establish the Louisiana Seafood Promotion and Marketing Board in an effort to aid the industry in two vital aspects--product promotion and marketing development.
B. The purpose of this Subpart, then, is to enhance the public image of commercial fishery products, thereby promoting the consumption of these products and, further, to assist the seafood industry, including commercial fishermen and wholesale and retail dealers, in market development so as to better utilize existing markets and to aid in the establishment of new marketing channels. Attention to the promotion and marketing of non-traditional and underutilized species of seafood would be inherent in the purpose of the council established herein.
Added by Acts 1981, No. 890, §1; Acts 2013, No. 228, §2, eff. July 1, 2013.
2023 Louisiana Laws › Revised Statutes › Title 56 - Wildlife and Fisheries › §56:578.3. Powers, duties, and functions

RS 56:578.3 - Powers, duties, and functions
The board shall have the following powers, duties, and functions:
(1) To adopt a seal and alter the same at its pleasure.
(2) To sue and be sued in its own name.
(3) To identify marketing problems, obstacles, and significant issues.
(4) To establish a marketing policy and goals and objectives therefor.
(5) To develop markets and marketing strategies for the development of new and expanded markets for Louisiana seafood.
(6) To give special emphasis to market promotion and development for underutilized species of Louisiana seafood.
(7) To educate the Louisiana fishing industry and Louisiana government officials regarding potential markets for Louisiana seafood and regarding investment and tax incentives available to industries under other existing Louisiana law and fisheries development programs available under federal law.
(8) To perform any acts deemed necessary and proper to carry out the duties and responsibilities imposed upon the board by the provisions of this Subpart.
(9) To consider and to recommend to the legislature a mechanism whereby the Louisiana Seafood Promotion and Marketing Board shall be funded, including rules and regulations pertinent thereto.
(10) To adopt rules and regulations necessary to carry out the purposes of the board.
Added by Acts 1981, No. 890, §1; Acts 2013, No. 228, §2, eff. July 1, 2013.
2023 Louisiana Laws › Revised Statutes › Title 56 - Wildlife and Fisheries › §56:578.4. Advertising, contracts, and sales offices

RS 56:578.4 - Advertising, contracts, and sales offices
The board, with the approval of the Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism, shall plan and conduct a campaign for advertising, publicizing, and promoting the increased consumption of Louisiana seafood, and may contract for any advertising, publicity, and sales promotion services. The board, with the approval of the Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism, is further empowered to take any other action which it deems necessary to promote and to improve the well-being of the commercial seafood industry. The secretary is hereby authorized and empowered to carry out any and all contracts entered into by the board.
Added by Acts 1981, No. 890, §1; Acts 2013, No. 228, §2, eff. July 1, 2013.
2023 Louisiana Laws › Revised Statutes › Title 56 - Wildlife and Fisheries › §56:578.7. Appropriations; warrants; records

RS 56:578.7 - Appropriations; warrants; records
Funds made available by the legislature from the Seafood Promotion and Marketing Fund as provided in R.S. 56:10 or from any other source shall be used solely for the programs and purposes provided for in this Subpart. The Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism shall maintain records of the sources of money received and the purpose therefor, as well as the person or persons to whom money is paid and the purpose therefor. Vouchers or receipts shall be kept for all money paid out. Money appropriated or otherwise made available to the department for authorized purposes shall be withdrawn from the treasury on warrant of the secretary of the department.
Added by Acts 1981, No. 890, §1. Acts 1984, No. 230, §1, eff. June 29, 1984; Acts 2013, No. 228, §2, eff. July 1, 2013.
2023 Louisiana Laws › Revised Statutes › Title 56 - Wildlife and Fisheries › §56:578.9. Approval of regulations

RS 56:578.9 - Approval of regulations
Any regulations promulgated as provided herein shall be submitted to and approved by the House Committee on Commerce and the Senate Committee on Commerce, Consumer Protection, and International Affairs.
Added by Acts 1981, No. 890, §1; Acts 2013, No. 228, §2, eff. July 1, 2013.
2023 Louisiana Laws › Revised Statutes › Title 56 - Wildlife and Fisheries › §56:578.10. Seafood packaging regulations

RS 56:578.10 - Seafood packaging regulations
The secretary of the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is authorized to adopt rules and regulations in accordance with the Administrative Procedure Act establishing standards for the packaging of seafood in Louisiana for wholesale or retail sale. Those standards may govern the quality, contents, and weight of all seafood packaged in this state. The Louisiana Seafood Promotion and Marketing Board may make recommendations to the secretary for standards for the packaging of seafood. For purposes of this Section, retail sale shall not include food service establishments which only serve food prepared for on premises or off premises consumption as defined by R.S. 40:5.5(E).
Acts 1986, No. 1016, §1; Acts 2003, No. 1026, §1.
2023 Louisiana Laws › Revised Statutes › Title 56 - Wildlife and Fisheries › §56:578.11. Labeling of catfish packaging; possession and exchange of certain catfish prohibited; penalties

RS 56:578.11 - Labeling of catfish packaging; possession and exchange of certain catfish prohibited; penalties
A. No person shall possess, sell, purchase, trade, barter, or exchange or attempt to sell, purchase, trade, or exchange any catfish or catfish product unless such catfish or catfish product is labeled to indicate that the fish is farm-raised or naturally produced (wild). When catfish fillets are possessed for retail sale, labeling as required by this Subsection shall be easily visible.
B.(1) No person shall possess, sell, purchase, trade, barter, or exchange or attempt to sell, purchase, barter, or exchange any species of fish as catfish or catfish product unless that catfish is within the family of Ictaluridae, Ariidae, or Loricariidae.
(2) Fish within the family Pangasiidae shall not be possessed, sold, purchased, bartered, traded, or exchanged as catfish or a catfish product.
C. Violation of this Section shall be a class four violation.
D. As used in this Section, "farm-raised" means produced using the aquacultural procedure whereby catfish are propagated, maintained, reared, and harvested within artificial reservoirs, tanks, cages, impoundments, or other controlled environments, so as to prevent, at all times, the ingress or egress of animal and plant life from public waters including natural streams or lakes. "Farm-raised" shall not include the production and harvesting of catfish in cages or other enclosures located in natural streams or rivers.
Acts 1991, No. 514, §1, eff. Jan. 1, 1992; Acts 2001, No. 761, §1, eff. Sept. 1, 2001; Acts 2003, No. 1026, §1.
2023 Louisiana Laws › Revised Statutes › Title 56 - Wildlife and Fisheries › §56:578.13. Labeling of "crawfish"

RS 56:578.13 - Labeling of "crawfish"
A. No product labeled "crawfish" may be sold in Louisiana unless it consists of, or is derived from, the red swamp crawfish
(Procambarus clarkii)
, the white river crawfish
(Procambarus zonangulus)
, or Louisiana pond-raised crawfish.
B. Any violation of the labeling requirements shall subject the distributor or packager to the penalties provided in R.S. 56:578.10(B).
Acts 2001, No. 200, §1.
2023 Louisiana Laws › Revised Statutes › Title 56 - Wildlife and Fisheries › §56:578.14. Imported crawfish or shrimp; notice to patrons; penalties

RS 56:578.14 - Imported crawfish or shrimp; notice to patrons; penalties
A. No owner or manager of a restaurant that sells imported crawfish or shrimp shall misrepresent to the public, either verbally, on a menu, or on signs displayed on the premises, that the crawfish or shrimp is domestic.
B. The district attorney of the district in which the restaurant is located shall have jurisdiction over violations committed under this Section. The penalties for violations of this Section are as follows:
(1) Any owner or manager of a restaurant who is guilty of a violation of this Section shall, upon a first offense, be fined fifty dollars.
(2) Any owner or manager of a restaurant who is guilty of a violation of this Section shall, upon a second offense, be fined two hundred fifty dollars.
(3) Any owner or manager of a restaurant who is guilty of a violation of this Section shall, upon a third or subsequent offense, be fined five hundred dollars.
Acts 2008, No. 264, §1.
2023 Louisiana Laws › Revised Statutes › Title 56 - Wildlife and Fisheries › §56:578.15. Louisiana Wild Seafood Certification Program

RS 56:578.15 - Louisiana Wild Seafood Certification Program
A. The secretary of the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is authorized to establish a quality certification program for Louisiana wild fish, as defined in R.S. 56:8, and for Louisiana wild seafood products, including wild-caught shrimp, which are taken, harvested, or landed in Louisiana. The program shall be established through the promulgation and adoption of certification standards in accordance with the Administrative Procedure Act. Such standards may include but are not limited to harvest requirements, post-harvest refrigeration requirements, quality standards, handling practices, traceability, branding and branding registrations, recording requirements, compliance standards, and packaging regulations. The secretary may develop and regulate certification protocols, programs, and establish regulatory authority in cooperation with the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry, Louisiana Louisiana Department of Health, Louisiana State University, and any other state or federal agency deemed appropriate.
B. All seafood product intended to be marketed as Louisiana Wild Seafood certified must meet all criteria and requirements as set out in the department's rules and regulations. Any product sold or attempted to be sold under the auspices of the Louisiana Wild Seafood Certification Program which is in violation of the rules and regulations shall be immediately removed from the market and the disposition of such product shall be delineated in the rules and regulations adopted to establish the program.
C. Any fisherman or seafood dealer who wishes to participate in the Louisiana Wild Seafood Certification Program shall apply to the department to be issued a participation permit by the department. This permit may be suspended or revoked by the department for violation of the provisions of the program. Any holder of such permit who harvests or markets Louisiana wild fish or wild seafood products in accordance with the requirements of the Louisiana Wild Seafood Certification Program shall be authorized to market said product under the auspices of the Louisiana Wild Seafood Certification Program.
Acts 2010, No. 294, §1.
2023 Louisiana Laws › Revised Statutes › Title 56 - Wildlife and Fisheries › §56:581. Expropriation of lands

RS 56:581 - Expropriation of lands
The secretary shall build, operate, and maintain fish hatcheries in the state. He may expropriate, in the manner, form, and method provided by law in ordinary cases of expropriation, any lands necessary for public use as a hatchery lying adjacent to any property belonging to the department or to the state in the possession of the department.
Amended by Acts 1974, No. 717, §1; Acts 1981, No. 736, §1.
2023 Louisiana Laws › Revised Statutes › Title 56 - Wildlife and Fisheries › §56:582. Distribution of fish

RS 56:582 - Distribution of fish
The secretary shall distribute the fish from the state hatcheries to all sections of the state where the waters are found suited to the habits of the various species. Distribution shall be made under rules and regulations provided by the secretary.
Amended by Acts 1974, No. 717, §1; Acts 1981, No. 736, §1.
2023 Louisiana Laws › Revised Statutes › Title 56 - Wildlife and Fisheries › §56:583. Federal fish hatchery

RS 56:583 - Federal fish hatchery
The United States Secretary of the Interior, and the director of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service and his duly authorized agents, may conduct fish hatching and all operations connected therewith in Louisiana in connection with a federal fish hatchery to be located in the state as authorized by the congress of the United States, in any manner and at any time considered by them to be necessary and proper, after consultation with the commission.
Amended by Acts 1974, No. 717, §1.
2023 Louisiana Laws › Revised Statutes › Title 56 - Wildlife and Fisheries › §56:612. Control of station; rules and regulations; donations; acquisition of property

RS 56:612 - Control of station; rules and regulations; donations; acquisition of property
The department shall control the station and may:
(1) Adopt all necessary rules and regulations for its government and management.
(2) Accept donations of money or property for the benefit and use of the station, including funds appropriated by the state, and disburse these for necessary expenses.
(3) Acquire lands necessary for the extension or improvement of the station.
(4) Fish unmolested in any of the waters of state with dredging apparatus, seines, nets, trawls, beam trawls (butterfly nets or wingnets), and all other instruments and apparatus for the sole purpose of obtaining the materials needed in the prosecution of the purposes and necessary investigations in the direction of the scientific objects for which this station is established.
The secretary shall, in general, have all power and authority necessary to carry out the purposes and objects of this Subpart, namely, investigating the flora and fauna of the Gulf of Mexico and the waters adjacent thereto.
Amended by Acts 1974, No. 717, §1; Acts 1981, No. 736, §1.
2023 Louisiana Laws › Revised Statutes › Title 56 - Wildlife and Fisheries › §56:613. Location; cooperation with federal agencies

RS 56:613 - Location; cooperation with federal agencies
The secretary shall provide for cooperation with the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, in connection with the investigations of the station, and offer its facilities, under proper regulations, to special investigation and students in the biologic sciences. He shall publish the results of any investigations that may be of value in the development of the biologic resources of the state.
Amended by Acts 1974, No. 717, §1; Acts 1981, No. 736, §1.
2023 Louisiana Laws › Revised Statutes › Title 56 - Wildlife and Fisheries › §56:631. Funds dedicated

RS 56:631 - Funds dedicated
In order to enforce properly the conservation laws and rules and regulations of the commission with respect to the operation and development of wildlife management areas, wildlife refuges, public shooting grounds or outdoor recreation areas, all revenue derived from trapping leases or the sale of furs or mineral leases or exploitation in any way of the mineral resources of any such lands under the jurisdiction of the commission are dedicated to the commission, to be used for the protection, maintenance, operation, and development of such areas or for the acquisition of other such areas.
Amended by Acts 1974, No. 717, §1.
2023 Louisiana Laws › Revised Statutes › Title 56 - Wildlife and Fisheries › §56:632. Powers and duties

RS 56:632 - Powers and duties
A. The secretary shall have the authority to prohibit the commercial harvest or importation of any species of reptile or amphibian, provided that such a decision is based on accurate biological data or other technical information that indicated such species would interfere with the state's natural ecosystem.
B. The commission shall have the authority to set seasons, establish harvest restrictions, and adopt other rules and regulations that it deems necessary to manage Louisiana's reptile and amphibian resources.
Acts 1992, No. 256, §1, eff. July 1, 1993; Acts 2010, No. 855, §1; Acts 2013, No. 184, §14(A).
2023 Louisiana Laws › Revised Statutes › Title 56 - Wildlife and Fisheries › §56:632.1. Definitions; applicability

RS 56:632.1 - Definitions; applicability
For purposes of this Subpart, the following words and phrases have the meaning ascribed to them in this Section, unless the context clearly indicates a different meaning:
(1) "Amphibian" means any vertebrate in the class Amphibia, including but not limited to frogs, toads, and salamanders.
(2) "Native reptiles and amphibians" means any species or subspecies of reptile or amphibian indigenous to the state of Louisiana or any alien species or subspecies of reptile or amphibian that has been introduced and established in Louisiana.
(3) "Reptile" means any vertebrate in the class Reptilia, except the alligator, including but not limited to turtles, lizards, and snakes.
Acts 1992, No. 256, §1, eff. July 1, 1993; Acts 1995, No. 604, §1.
2023 Louisiana Laws › Revised Statutes › Title 56 - Wildlife and Fisheries › §56:632.2. Limitations of law

RS 56:632.2 - Limitations of law
The provisions in this Subpart shall not supersede or limit the provisions in R.S. 3:2358.1 et seq., applicable to the regulation of pet turtles; farm raised turtles are excluded regardless of age.
Acts 1992, No. 256, §1, eff. July 1, 1993.
2023 Louisiana Laws › Revised Statutes › Title 56 - Wildlife and Fisheries › §56:632.3. Licenses

RS 56:632.3 - Licenses
A. All persons engaged in the collection of native reptiles and amphibians for noncommercial purposes must possess one of the following licenses:
(1) A resident must possess a basic recreational fishing license.
(2) A nonresident must possess a basic nonresident fishing license.
B. A violation of this Section is a class one violation.
Acts 1992, No. 256, §1, eff. July 1, 1993; Acts 1995, No. 604, §1.
2023 Louisiana Laws › Revised Statutes › Title 56 - Wildlife and Fisheries › §56:632.4. Reptile and amphibian collector's license; scientific collector's permit

RS 56:632.4 - Reptile and amphibian collector's license; scientific collector's permit
A. All persons engaged in the sale of native reptiles and amphibians collected in Louisiana must possess one of the following licenses:
(1) A resident must possess a resident collector's license at a cost of fifty-five dollars.
(2) A nonresident must possess a nonresident collector's license at a cost of four hundred twenty dollars.
(3) Residents under eighteen years of age shall be required to possess a collector's license at a cost of ten dollars.
B. Persons engaged in legitimate herpetological research may request from the secretary a scientific collector's permit. No fee shall be charged for such a permit. No specimens obtained under this permit may be sold.
C. A violation of this Section is a class three violation.
Acts 1992, No. 256, §1, eff. July 1, 1993; Acts 1995, No. 604, §1; Acts 2021, No. 356, §2, eff. Nov. 15, 2021.
2023 Louisiana Laws › Revised Statutes › Title 56 - Wildlife and Fisheries › §56:632.5. Reptile and amphibian wholesale/retail dealer's license; nonresident three-day license

RS 56:632.5 - Reptile and amphibian wholesale/retail dealer's license; nonresident three-day license
A. Any person buying, acquiring, or handling, from any person, by any means whatsoever, or for propagation for sale, any live species of native reptile or amphibian, except farm raised aquatic chelonians, or any live species of poisonous snake or constrictor, as delineated in R.S. 56:632.5.1, in Louisiana, from within or outside the state, for sale, or resale, whether on a commission basis or otherwise, is a wholesale/retail reptile amphibian dealer and shall possess a reptile and amphibian wholesale/retail dealer's license at a cost of two hundred twenty dollars for a resident and eight hundred eighty dollars for a nonresident.
B. All persons selling native, captive-reared reptiles or amphibians, regardless of the number of generations removed from the wild, shall be required to possess a reptile and amphibian wholesale/retail dealer's license.
C. Individual employees of reptile and amphibian wholesale/retail dealers are not required to obtain a reptile and amphibian wholesale/retail dealer's license when transacting the business of the reptile and amphibian wholesale/retail dealer on the premises of the place of business, but any employee or person buying, acquiring, handling, or selling reptiles or amphibians as a wholesale/retail dealer or for a wholesale/retail dealer at any place other than on the premises of the place of business, must obtain a reptile and amphibian wholesale/retail dealer's license.
D. The provisions of this Section shall not apply to a person transporting reptiles and amphibians under the privilege of a Louisiana reptile and amphibian wholesale/retail dealer's license when that person buys reptiles and amphibians for or on behalf of the reptile and amphibian wholesale/retail dealer to whom such transport license was issued and only transports such reptiles and amphibians to that wholesale/retail dealer.
E. In lieu of the regular nonresident wholesale/retail dealer's license, nonresidents may purchase a three-day reptile and amphibian wholesale/retail dealer's license for a fee of one hundred fifty dollars. The three-day license shall be valid only for three consecutive days.
F. A violation of this Section is a class three violation.
Acts 1992, No. 256, §1, eff. July 1, 1993; Acts 1995, No. 604, §1; Acts 2007, No. 81, §1; Acts 2010, No. 855, §1; Acts 2021, No. 356, §2, eff. Nov. 15, 2021.
2023 Louisiana Laws › Revised Statutes › Title 56 - Wildlife and Fisheries › §56:632.5.1. Constrictors and poisonous snakes

RS 56:632.5.1 - Constrictors and poisonous snakes
A. The importation or private possession of constrictor snakes in excess of eight feet long, including but not limited to the following species: Apodora papuana (Papuan python), Liasis olivacea, (Olive python), Morelia spilota (Carpet or Diamond python), Morelia kinghorni (Scrub python), Morelia amethystine (Amethystine python), Python natalensis (Southern African python), Python sebae (African Rock python), Python molurus (Indian or Burmese python), Python reticulatus (Reticulate python), any species of the genus Boa (Boa constrictors), and any species of the genus Eunectes (Anacondas), obtained in any manner, shall be only by permit issued by the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries except for animals kept by animal sanctuaries, zoos, aquariums, wildlife research centers, scientific organizations, and medical research facilities as defined in the Animal Welfare Act as found in the United States Code Title 7, Chapter 54, 2132(e).
B. The importation or private possession of venomous snakes, including any species under current taxonomic standing recognized to belong to the Families Viperidae (Pitvipers and Vipers), Elapidae (Cobras and Mambas), Hydrophiidae (Sea Snakes), Atractaspididae (Mole Vipers), as well as the genera Dispholidus, Thelotornis, and Rhabdophis of the Family Colubridae obtained in any manner, shall be only by permit issued by the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries except for animals kept by animal sanctuaries, zoos, aquariums, wildlife research centers, scientific organizations, and medical research facilities as defined in the Animal Welfare Act as found in the United States Code Title 7, Chapter 54, 2132(e).
C. The Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission is authorized to adopt rules and regulations for the harvest, possession, sale, handling, housing, or importation for species of constrictors and poisonous snakes.
D. Violation of the provisions of this Section or rules adopted pursuant thereto shall constitute a class three violation as provided for in R.S. 56:33.
Acts 2010, No. 855, §1.
2023 Louisiana Laws › Revised Statutes › Title 56 - Wildlife and Fisheries › §56:632.6. Methods of collection

RS 56:632.6 - Methods of collection
A. The use of gasoline, chemicals, or other volatile substances to flush reptiles and amphibians from natural hiding places, nests, or dens is prohibited.
B. The destruction of natural habitats is prohibited. All logs, rocks, and other natural objects may be turned over or moved, but they must be replaced in their original position upon completion of the collector's inspection.
C. Any trap or other device designed to capture reptiles or amphibians, which remains in the field unattended, must bear a tag with the name, address, and license number of the collector. All such devices must be checked every twenty-four hours or they must be rendered unworkable during periods of nonuse.
D. A violation of this Section is a class one violation.
Acts 1992, No. 256, §1, eff. July 1, 1993.
2023 Louisiana Laws › Revised Statutes › Title 56 - Wildlife and Fisheries › §56:632.7. License fee dedication

RS 56:632.7 - License fee dedication
All funds derived from the sale of reptile and amphibian collector's licenses and reptile and amphibian wholesale/retail dealer's licenses shall be placed in the Conservation Fund in accordance with R.S. 56:10.
Acts 1992, No. 256, §1, eff. July 1, 1993; Acts 2010, No. 855, §1.
2023 Louisiana Laws › Revised Statutes › Title 56 - Wildlife and Fisheries › §56:634. Frogs; season; jacklights; restrictions on taking

RS 56:634 - Frogs; season; jacklights; restrictions on taking
A. Frogs may be taken with the aid of a jacklight or any other visible light and by means of mechanical devices known as frog catchers. A person is also permitted to take frogs with devices that puncture the skin such as gigs and spears. No person shall carry or have in his possession any shotgun, rifle, or firearm while taking or hunting frogs during the nighttime.
B. Bullfrogs (Rana catesbeiana) and lagoon frogs or grunters (Rana grylio) may be taken year round except during the months of April and May.
C. No person shall take or possess large bullfrogs (Rana catesbeiana) that are less than five inches in length, nor take or possess lagoon frogs or grunters (Rana grylio) that are less than three inches in length. The length is measured from the tip of the muzzle to the posterior end of the body between the hind legs. However, if a special permit is obtained from the department prior to the taking, such frogs under the legal size may be taken from privately owned ponds, impoundments, or waters by the owner thereof or his authorized representative and may be sold to other persons for purposes of stocking private waters, ponds, or impoundments.
D. A violation of this Section shall constitute a class three violation, R.S. 56:33.
Acts 1992, No. 256, §1, eff. July 1, 1993; Acts 1995, No. 604, §1.
2023 Louisiana Laws › Revised Statutes › Title 56 - Wildlife and Fisheries › §56:635. Diamondback terrapins; trapping; turtle eggs

RS 56:635 - Diamondback terrapins; trapping; turtle eggs
A. No person shall take diamondback terrapins by means of traps of any kind, and no person shall take the eggs of any species of turtle, except the red ear (Trachemys Scripta), wherever found.
B. No person shall ship diamondback terrapins out of the state between the fifteenth of April and the fifteenth of June. All diamondback terrapins caught by any means whatsoever during that period shall be immediately returned to the water alive.
Acts 1992, No. 256, §1, eff. July 1, 1993; Acts 1995, No. 604, §1.
2023 Louisiana Laws › Revised Statutes › Title 56 - Wildlife and Fisheries › §56:636. License requirements; possession; nontransferability

RS 56:636 - License requirements; possession; nontransferability
A. Persons taking reptiles or amphibians, whether recreationally or commercially, and persons involved in the reptile and amphibian industry, including wholesale/retail dealers and transporters shall be licensed in accordance with this Subpart.
B. Persons engaged in an activity for which a license is required shall have in their immediate possession a valid, original license and shall show such license upon demand to a duly authorized agent of the department.
C. Except as provided in this Subpart, licenses cannot be assigned or transferred or used by any other person. An officer authorized to enforce the provisions of this Subpart shall take possession of any license found in the possession of any person other than the one to whom issued and shall deliver it to the department for cancellation. The license is thereupon void.
D. The following applies to all licenses required by this Subpart:
(1) No license may be issued until all information requested is supplied to the issuing agent.
(2) Forms of acceptable payment for licenses shall be determined by the department.
(3) No resident license may be issued prior to proof of Louisiana residency by the applicant.
(4) The issuance of a license is conditional upon validation of all information on the application. If the department finds any material misstatement of fact regarding the residency of the applicant, the license is void and shall be immediately surrendered to an agent of the department.
E. A violation of this Section is a class two violation.
Acts 1995, No. 604, §1.
2023 Louisiana Laws › Revised Statutes › Title 56 - Wildlife and Fisheries › §56:637. Records

RS 56:637 - Records
A. Wholesale/retail dealers shall keep in the English language records of:
(1) The quantity and species of reptiles and amphibians acquired, the date the reptiles or amphibians were acquired, and the name and license number of the collector, the wholesale/retail dealer, or the out-of-state seller from which the reptiles or amphibians were acquired.
(2) The quantity and species of reptiles or amphibians sold, the date sold, and the name and license number of the person to whom the reptiles or amphibians were sold. When the reptiles or amphibians are sold to the consumer, the records shall indicate the quantity, species, and date and shall state that the reptiles or amphibians were sold to the consumer.
B. Records required by this Section shall be maintained for three years and shall be open to inspection by the department.
C. All information, data, and statistics obtained by the department pursuant to this Section shall be used for the equitable and efficient administration and enforcement of the laws pertaining to the reptile and amphibian resources of the state and for conservation and management purposes.
D. The names, addresses, and license numbers of the collectors shall remain confidential, provided such information shall be available and used by the department for administrative and enforcement purposes.
E. Any wholesale/retail dealer who purchases reptiles or amphibians shall complete a commercial receipt form and return all commercial receipt forms to the department in the same manner as provided in R.S. 56:306.5(B) and 306.6.
Acts 1995, No. 604, §1; Acts 2016, No. 114, §1.