House Bill 1425

(As Passed the House)

AN ACT TO AMEND SECTION 49-15-321, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO PROVIDE THAT MATERIALS REMAINING FROM PUBLIC OR PRIVATE PROJECTS MAY BE MADE AVAILABLE TO PRESERVE OR CREATE FISHING REEFS OR ANY OTHER ARTIFICIAL REEF; AND FOR RELATED PURPOSES.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI:

SECTION 1. Section 49-15-321, Mississippi Code of 1972, is amended as follows:

49-15-321. The commission is hereby authorized to establish sanctuaries to protect the state's fishing resources. The establishment of a sanctuary shall be based on overall public interest and prudent fisheries management and research. The commission shall establish nursery grounds in the estuaries and bays sufficient to protect the state's fishing resources. Any materials remaining from public and private projects may be used by the commission to create and protect the state's fishing resources, including artificial fishing reefs.

It shall be unlawful to engage in any activity prohibited by the commission in a designated sanctuary or nursery area.

SECTION 2. This act shall take effect and be in force from and after July 1, 2004.