HB 2323 - DIGEST

(SUBSTITUTED FOR - SEE 1ST SUB)

     Requires the department to establish and administer a direct retail license to serve as a single license that permits the holder of a Washington commercial fishing license to process and sell his or her catch directly to consumers at retail, including over the internet.  The direct retail license must be issued as an optional addition to all commercial food fish or shellfish licenses that the department offers under chapter 77.65 RCW.

     Authorizes the department of health to develop health-based standards relating to the processing and retail sale of food fish and shellfish by the holders of a direct retail license.  These standards may be developed in consultation with the department, the department of agriculture, any of the local health departments in the state, and any public health professional.  The standards should be developed to protect, to the extent possible, the health of the retail consumer.  The standards may vary according to the product being processed or sold by the holder of a direct retail license.

     Takes effect April 1, 2003.