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HI all...I am on the State Recreational Salt Water Registry Steering Committee. I just popped home for a minute then have to go to work and back to Sandy Neck for the weekend. Here is some info.
Fed proposal is in final development. Fed proposal is set to go into play for free in 09 and at a charge "around" $15- $25 iin 2010. Fed proposal public comment period was extended but is now or about to be closed.
State created the Steering Committee to give input during development of a State License. Once developed the proposal becomes a bill in State House and then the politicians get a shot at it and I don;t have to tell you what that "could" mean. There would be hearings during the State legislative part of this process.
Some key points.
Feds and State agree the registry/license would cover all fishing salt water because of the wording in the original Federal Bill that created this disaster.
Federal Plan is limited to only it's charge and who cares if the money goes through the US Geneeral Fund. The data collection driving this process will ahve to be funded either way. There are not much more areas the Feds could go which will keep the costs of a Federal License stable.
State is saying (and I agree) that for the same money (we are looking at $15 for residents) we can get additional services.
A concern is that in most other states a few years after the license went in to play, the pre license level of funding dropped and then new services were cut because the license monies were then needed for original services.
State (MA) is going to present the Steering Committee with the fund flow as we have been stating loudly we want a dedicated account.
We are in process of developing increased service options. Problem here is that the proposals look good to me in text but under questioning I am not getting the answers I think most of those I represent would agree with.
Yes there is a short term and long term license.
Yes, there is a children free and consideration of a senior discount or free also.
Yes, there is a higher fee for non residents.
Yes, Salty is correct
1...Shore based fishers would need a license in any state they fish from.
2...Boat anglers would also with one execption. Leave a state port, fish in a neighboring state waters and return to original state port and you are covered.
Yes, each individual on a boat would need a separate license. I am fighting this hard. Better data Comes from the boat owner and not the "I fish twice a year" guest.
Yes, it is true that clients on a charter will NOT need separate licenses because charter boats are already on a data collection program. When I said we could duplicate that program for private boat owners I was told this was not possible. I disagree and am fighting this.
Yes, the MA process could not be completed and enacted before 2010 so it is "possible" MA residents would have to get a free federal license for '09 and then get a State license in 2010 causing major confusion. I do know multiple states are lobbying for a one year exception to the fed plan if they have a State license in process. I predict there will be some action on this point. Just a prediction.
The process is ongoing...If you are a MA guy make sur your local club is invloved. If not, join MSBA becasue we are always in teh middle on the issues. Shouldn;t you support clubs that fight for you?
Ok, Off to work then the beach for the weekend.
GO LARGE
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