Removes the requirement that certain tags have the social security number of the tag holder. (8/1/26)
Removes the requirement that certain tags have the social security number of the tag holder. (8/1/26)
Senate Bill 257 amends Louisiana Revised Statutes sections 325.4(B)(4) and 406(A)(3)(e) to eliminate the requirement that identification tags affixed to pompano strike nets include the social security number of the net owner. Currently, state law requires the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries to issue tags for commercial pompano strike nets that display the owner's name, address, social security number, and the corresponding permit number for taking pompano or black drum. The bill removes the mandate that social security numbers appear on these tags and simultaneously eliminates the statutory prohibition that prevented the department from issuing tags to persons lacking a social security number.
Commercial fishermen who use pompano strike nets in Louisiana waters will be directly affected by this change, as their equipment identification tags will no longer require social security numbers. The Department of Wildlife and Fisheries will also be impacted, as it will no longer need to collect, verify, or display social security numbers when issuing tags to commercial fishermen. This modification removes a potential barrier to obtaining permits and tags for individuals who may lack social security numbers, including certain non-citizen commercial fishermen who participate in Louisiana's commercial fishing industry.
The amendments operate within Louisiana's regulatory framework for commercial fishing operations in state and federal waters surrounding the Breton Islands and Chandeleur Islands, where specific restrictions on net types and gear apply. The bill preserves all other existing requirements for pompano strike nets, including the display of the owner's name, address, and permit number. The change reflects a narrowing of the personal identification information collected and displayed on fishing gear while maintaining the core regulatory tracking mechanisms through permit numbers and owner identification through name and address.
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