LAKE STURGEON; INCREASED FINE H.B. 4018 (H-2):
SUMMARY OF HOUSE-PASSED BILL
IN COMMITTEE
House Bill 4018 (Substitute H-2 as passed by the House)
Sponsor: Representative Sue Allor
House Committee: Natural Resources and Outdoor Recreation
Judiciary
Senate Committee: Natural Resources
CONTENT
The bill would amend Part 487 (Sport Fishing) of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act to increase the fine for an individual who takes or possesses lake sturgeon in violation of Part 487.
An individual who takes or possesses lake sturgeon in violation of Part 487 or rules or orders issued to implement Part 487 is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment for at least 30, but not more than 180, a fine of at least $500 but not more than $2,000, or both, and the costs of prosecution. The bill would remove the 30-day minimum, and would increase the maximum fine to $5,000.
BACKGROUND
Lake sturgeon (Acipenser fulvescens) is listed as a threatened species in Michigan. Currently, commercial fishing for the lake sturgeon is prohibited. Sports fishing for sturgeon is closely regulated; anglers are limited to one sturgeon per year, and only in certain waters. Anglers who harvest a sturgeon must report their catch within 24 hours. Lake sturgeon can grow to weights of up to 200 pounds and can measure up to seven feet in length. The typical lifespan for lake sturgeon is 55 years for males and 70 to 100 years for females.
Legislative Analyst: Jeff Mann
FISCAL IMPACT
The bill would remove the required minimum amount of jail time of at least 30 days, which could result in a slight savings for the State and local government. The removal of the minimum jail time could result in fewer misdemeanor arrests and convictions under the proposed bill and could decrease resource demands on law enforcement, court systems, community supervision, and jails. However, it is unknown how many fewer people would be prosecuted under the bill's provisions.
Additionally, the bill would increase the maximum fine amount from $2,000 to $5,000. Any additional revenue from imposed fines would go to local libraries.
This analysis was prepared by nonpartisan Senate staff for use by the Senate in its deliberations and does not constitute an official statement of legislative intent.