SENATE BILL REPORT
HB 1153
As of February 13, 2024
Title: An act relating to prohibiting octopus farming.
Brief Description: Prohibiting octopus farming.
Sponsors: Representatives Peterson, Fitzgibbon, Berry, Walen, Bateman, Goodman, Leavitt, Macri, Gregerson, Stonier, Pollet and Fosse.
Brief History: Passed House: 2/6/24, 70-27.
Committee Activity: Agriculture, Water, Natural Resources & Parks: 2/14/24.
Brief Summary of Bill
  • Prohibits octopus farming in the state of Washington.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON AGRICULTURE, WATER, NATURAL RESOURCES & PARKS
Staff: Jeff Olsen (786-7428)
Background:

Aquaculture is the culture or farming of fish, shellfish, and other aquatic plants and animals in fresh or salt water areas.  In Washington, aquaculture occurs in both fresh and marine waters such as streams, rivers, lakes, the Puget Sound, and on the coast.  Commercial aquaculture activities include raising, harvesting, transporting, and selling fish and shellfish.  Other aquaculture activities are designed to help restore and enhance resources.  This includes fish and shellfish hatcheries and planting and growing native aquatic plants to restore or enhance habitat.  Private sector cultured aquatic products in Washington include clams, oysters, prawns, trout, salmon, geoducks, and kelp, among others.  Commercial net-pen aquaculture of nonnative finfish, including Atlantic salmon, has been prohibited in Washington.

Aquaculture is regulated by the departments of Ecology, Health, Fish and Wildlife, and Natural Resources, as well as local and tribal governments, and other state and federal agencies.
Summary of Bill:

The definition of private sector cultured aquatic products does not include octopus, and a person may not participate in octopus aquaculture in Washington.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Creates Committee/Commission/Task Force that includes Legislative members: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.