The Senate today (June 23) approved three Fish & Boat Commission bills, including a measure that would expand the allowable uses for funds raised by the Lake Erie Fishing Permit, according to Senator Dan Laughlin.
The bills were approved by the Senate Game & Fisheries Committee, Chaired by Senator Laughlin, prior to consideration by the full Senate.
“These bills were thoroughly reviewed by my Committee and I believe they will provide real benefits to anglers and boaters across the state,” Senator Laughlin said. “In addition, there is a provision that will truly benefit Erie by expanding the uses for revenues raised by the Lake Erie fishing stamp.”
House Bill 1003, which was approved by the Game & Fisheries Committee on May 27, empowers the Fish and Boat Commission’s to issue citations for failure to mark head or run-of-the-river dams. The bill now goes to the Governor for enactment into law.
House Bill 1185, which was approved by the Game & Fisheries Committee on May 27, increases and clarifies penalties relating to damage to Fish & Boat Commission property; littering; boating education; boating under the influence; and, aggravated assault by watercraft. The bill returns to the House for concurrence on Senate amendments.
House Bill 808 , which was approved by the Game & Fisheries Committee on April 30, authorizes the Fish and Boat Commission to establish the fees for fishing and boating licenses and permits by regulatory action and expands the allowable uses for Lake Erie fishing permit revenues.. The bill returns to the House of Representatives for concurrence on Senate amendments.
Currently, the funds raised from the permits may only be used for public fishing access or habitat improvements on Lake Erie, Presque Isle Bay and their tributaries. House Bill 808 expands that use include other projects that support public fishing access or habitat improvements related to those waters.
“Enactment of this bill will provide greater latitude for the use of the money raised from the permits,” Senator Laughlin said. “The funds will stay here in Erie, which is good. What’s even better is that the revenues can be invested in a variety of ways that improve the overall fishing experience for local anglers and the thousands of others who travel here to enjoy the sport. That’s a win not just for anglers, but also for our local businesses and economy as well.”
Contact: Matt Azeles mazeles@pasen.gov