1. (A) No molluscan shellfish, shellfish tissues, or shells may be imported into this State and placed in waters in this State except under the provisions of a shellfish importation permit.

2. (B) The department may grant permits to persons to import molluscan shellfish, shellfish tissues, or shells into this State. Permits may include conditions related to:

   1. (1) the type or species of mollusks to be imported;
   2. (2) ancillary species attached to or associated with the species to be imported;
   3. (3) structure and placement of holding or storage facilities;
   4. (4) placement of the product in natural waters of this State;
   5. (5) disposal of shellfish, shellfish parts, and associated biota;
   6. (6) reporting requirements; and

   7. (7) other matters which are considered important by the department to the protection of the natural resources of this State.

      A person who imports molluscan shellfish, shellfish tissues, or shells into this State for placement into state waters or waters connected to state waters must first acquire a permit from the department.

3. (C) A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, must be fined not less than one thousand dollars and not more than two thousand dollars or imprisoned for not more than thirty days.

HISTORY: 2000 Act No. 245, Section 5.