USE OF NONNATIVE SPECIES AS FISHING BAIT

House Bill 5986

Sponsor:  Rep. Rick Jones

Committee:  Great Lakes and Environment

Complete to 11-10-10

A SUMMARY OF HOUSE BILL 5986 AS INTRODUCED 3-24-10

It is a violation of Part 413 (Transgenic and Nonnative Species) of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act to introduce a restricted, nonnative, genetically-engineered, or prohibited species into Michigan.  Section 41305 describes the current prohibitions against introducing these species into Michigan; Section 41309(6) describes the applicable penalties. 

Under Section 41301(1)(b), to "introduce" an organism is to knowingly and willfully stock, place, plant, release, or allow the organism's release in Michigan at a location where it was not already naturalized.

House Bill 5986 would specify that using an organism as live bait in a location where the organism was not already naturalized is also an "introduction" within the meaning of Part 413, unless the person is using the organism as bait at the specific location where it was obtained from the environment. 

MCL 324.41301 & 324.41309

FISCAL IMPACT:

House Bill 5986 would prohibit the use of prohibited or restricted species as fishing bait in Michigan waters.  The bill would have no significant fiscal impact on the State of Michigan or local units of government.

                                                                                           Legislative Analyst:   Shannan Kane

                                                                                                  Fiscal Analyst:   Viola Bay Wild

■ This analysis was prepared by nonpartisan House staff for use by House members in their deliberations, and does not constitute an official statement of legislative intent.