1. (1) The purpose and intent of this chapter is to protect and conserve Florida’s blue crab resources and assure the continuing health and abundance of the species.
2. (2) It is the intent of this chapter to expressly effect the repeal of and replace the second distinct sentence of subsection (1) of Section 370.135, F.S. (1993).
3. (3) It is the intent of this chapter to repeal and replace Chapter 63-1217, Laws of Florida (1963), a rule of the Department of Natural Resources pursuant to subsection (5) of section 2 of Chapter 83-134, as amended by 84-121, Laws of Florida. This Special Act, applicable to Citrus County, establishes a minimum size for blue crabs harvested in the county. The Marine Fisheries Commission has determined that repeal of Chapter 63-1217, Laws of Florida (1963), a Citrus County Special Act, will not adversely affect the marine resources of Citrus County or of the State of Florida.
4. (4) Chapter 63-1217, Laws of Florida (1963), a rule of the Department of Natural Resources pursuant to subsection (5) of section 2 of Chapter 83-134, as amended by 84-121, Laws of Florida, is hereby repealed.
5. (5) Blue crabs are designated as a restricted species pursuant to Section 379.101(32), F.S.

Rulemaking Authority Art. IV, Sec. 9, Fla. Const., Chapter 83-134, Laws of Fla., as amended by Chapter 84-121, and Chapter 85-163, Laws of Fla. Law Implemented Art. IV, Sec. 9, Fla. Const., Chapter 83-134, Laws of Fla., as amended by Chapter 84-121, and Chapter 85-163, Laws of Fla. History–New 12-14-93, Amended 6-1-94, 10-4-95, Formerly 46-45.001, Amended 6-1-99.