CHAPTER 200

S.P. 483 - L.D. 1451

An Act To Manage the Sea Urchin Fishery

Emergency preamble. Whereas, Acts of the Legislature do not become effective until 90 days after adjournment unless enacted as emergencies; and

Whereas, the sea urchin population along the coast of Maine has dramatically declined over the last decade and increased conservation efforts are needed to maintain a viable sea urchin fishery; and

Whereas, the sea urchin fishing season will begin on August 31st and this legislation will affect that fishing season; and

Whereas, in the judgment of the Legislature, these facts create an emergency within the meaning of the Constitution of Maine and require the following legislation as immediately necessary for the preservation of the public peace, health and safety; now, therefore,

Be it enacted by the People of the State of Maine as follows:

Sec. 1. 12 MRSA §6404-E is enacted to read:

§6404-E.__Suspension based on 3 or more convictions of possessing

small sea urchins