Authorizes the taking of green crabs and provides for a commercial green crab license subject to a license fee of ten dollars ($10.00).
Summary
S0938 creates a new state licensing framework for harvesting green crabs, an aquatic invasive species. The bill allows any person to take green crabs and authorizes Rhode Island residents to obtain a commercial green crab license for a $10 seasonal fee. It also gives the director authority to adopt regulations governing the commercial license.
The measure is aimed at managing an invasive species while potentially supporting a small commercial fishery or removal market. It takes effect on January 1, 2026, and amends Rhode Island General Laws chapter 20-2, which covers fish and wildlife licensing.
Impact
The bill adds a new section to Rhode Island’s fish and wildlife licensing laws, specifically creating a statutory basis for green crab harvest and a commercial green crab license. It affects residents who may seek to commercially harvest green crabs, and it authorizes the relevant agency director to establish implementing regulations. By defining green crabs as a species that may be taken, the bill also clarifies that harvesting them is permitted under state law beginning in 2026.
Sentiment
The available voting history shows strong bipartisan support and no recorded opposition: the Senate passed the bill 36-0, and the House passed it in concurrence 66-0. No committee transcript is available, but the unanimous votes suggest the bill was viewed favorably as a practical conservation and fisheries-management measure.
Contention
No notable points of contention are reflected in the available record. The only policy choices apparent in the text are the low $10 license fee, the limitation of the commercial license to Rhode Island residents, and the delegation of regulatory authority to the director. Because there are no committee transcripts or recorded dissent, there is no evidence of organized opposition in the materials provided.