HB 2183 - DIGEST

     Provides that the derelict fishing gear program may include activities to:  Create and maintain a data base of known derelict fishing gear, provide for public reporting of located derelict fishing gear, reduce the future losses of fishing gear, search out sites where derelict fishing gear has been reported as lost, evaluate and prioritize derelict fishing gear sites for removal, or develop tools to remove derelict fishing gear or to render it ineffective.

     Directs the department to investigate the feasibility of different methods to encourage or require the reporting of lost fishing gear by commercial and recreational fishers.  The department shall report the results of this investigation, along with agency recommendations, to the appropriate legislative committees by January 1, 2003.

     Appropriates the sum of two hundred six thousand dollars, or as much thereof as may be necessary, for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2002, from the general fund to the department of fish and wildlife for the purposes of this act.

     Appropriates the sum of two hundred six thousand dollars, or as much thereof as may be necessary, for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2003, from the general fund to the department of fish and wildlife for the purposes of this act.

     Provides that the act shall be null and void if appropriations are not approved.