A BILL to amend and reenact § 28.2-701 of the Code of Virginia and to amend the Code of Virginia by adding in Article 1 of Chapter 2 of Title 28.2 a section numbered 28.2-208.4 relating to Marine Resources Commission; Chesapeake Bay; diamondback terrapin protection areas; use of bycatch reduction devices on crab traps; penalty.
HB1013 amends Virginia’s crab pot regulations to require the Marine Resources Commission to mandate bycatch reduction devices on all recreational crab pots, including those that are otherwise exempt from licensing requirements. The bill defines a bycatch reduction device as a rigid rectangular insert, often bright orange plastic, that allows crabs to enter the pot while reducing the capture of terrapins.
The bill also directs the Commission to establish diamondback terrapin protection areas in the Chesapeake Bay. Within those areas, the Commission would be authorized to adopt additional regulations intended to protect terrapins from crab pot bycatch. The measure is framed as a marine resource and wildlife conservation bill focused on reducing harm to terrapins while preserving recreational crabbing activity.
HB1013 would expand the Marine Resources Commission’s regulatory authority over crab traps and recreational crab pots under § 28.2-701 and add a new statutory section for terrapin protection areas in the Chesapeake Bay. It would require bycatch reduction devices on recreational crab pots statewide and make violations of regulations adopted under this section a Class 3 misdemeanor, thereby creating enforceable penalties for noncompliance. The bill would affect recreational crabbers, crab pot manufacturers and retailers, and wildlife conservation efforts, especially in areas where diamondback terrapins are present.
The available context suggests the bill is generally conservation-oriented and likely supported as a wildlife protection measure, since it is designed to reduce terrapin bycatch and protect Chesapeake Bay ecosystems. No committee transcript or recorded vote information is available, so there is no direct evidence of opposition or support from debate. The bill’s focus on recreational gear and enforcement implies the discussion likely centers on balancing environmental protection with crabbing practices.
The main likely point of contention is the requirement that all recreational crab pots use bycatch reduction devices, including pots exempt from licensing, which could be viewed by some crabbers as an added equipment burden or compliance cost. Another possible issue is the creation of terrapin protection areas in the Chesapeake Bay, which may raise questions about where restrictions apply and how broadly the Commission can regulate. On the other hand, conservation advocates would likely support the bill for its terrapin-protection benefits and reduced wildlife mortality.