§305.6. Commercial crab fishing; apprentice license; requirements

            A. The commission shall establish a program to increase and elevate professionalism in the commercial crab industry. Such professionalism program shall include education in the proper fishing techniques necessary for the health and sustainability of the species; proper techniques for the best capture and presentation of the crabs for marketability; proper instructions regarding the placement, tending, and maintenance of crab traps to reduce potential conflicts with other user groups, and may include an apprenticeship program. The professionalism program shall be established no later than November 15, 2014, through rules promulgated pursuant to the Administrative Procedure Act.

            B. Beginning November 15, 2014, and applicable to license year 2015 and thereafter, no person shall be issued a commercial crab trap gear license unless that person qualifies under any of the following provisions:

            (1) The person possessed a valid commercial crab trap gear license during any two license years between 2011 and 2014.

            (2) The person possessed a valid wholesale/retail seafood dealer's license and can demonstrate crab landings through trip ticket submissions during any two years between 2011 and 2014.

            (3) The person has enrolled in and completed the program to increase and elevate professionalism in the commercial crab industry established pursuant to the provisions of this Section.

            Acts 1995, No. 873, §1; Acts 2004, No. 831, §1, eff. July 12, 2004; Acts 2014, No. 540, §1, eff. June 5, 2014; Acts 2015, No. 209, §1.