Bill No.: SF0071                     Drafter:  LGC

LSO No.:   12LSO-0104                 Effective Date:  July 1, 2012

Enrolled Act No.:    SEA0053

Chapter No.:         CH0064

Prime Sponsor:       Senator Christensen

Catch Title:         Aquatic invasive species.

Subject:             Requiring mandatory inspection of conveyances entering the state.

Summary/Major Elements:

· In 2010, the legislature created a program to control and prevent the infiltration of aquatic invasive species into the waters of this state.  Under that program conveyances were required to stop at an authorized aquatic invasive species check station if one was stationed at a body of water.

· This act requires every conveyance entering the state to be inspected before entering the waters of the state.  This act authorizes the game and fish commission to promulgate rules establishing the dates when those inspections are required and qualifications for authorized inspectors.

· This act also directs the commission, in coordination with the department of transportation, the department of state parks and cultural resources and the department of agriculture to establish and inspect conveyances at mandatory check stations at ports of entry, other department of transportation facilities near the borders of the state or other appropriate facilities.

· This act authorizes the game and fish department to hire 18 additional at-will contract employees to staff the program.

Comments:

· Creates/amends major program:  Aquatic Invasive Species Program.