WILLIAM DONALD SCHAEFER, Governor

index exceeds 15, the Department may permit by regulation during
the 12-month period beginning April 1 of the following year, the
possession, sale, or offer for sale of striped bass 12 inches in
length;

(D) THE PROVISIONS OF SUBSECTION (A)(9) OF THIS SECTION DO
NOT APPLY TO HYBRIDS OF STRIPED BASS OR ROCKFISH THAT ARE BRED OR
RAISED IN NONTIDAL AQUACULTURE ENTERPRISES.

SECTION 2. AND BE IT FURTHER ENACTED, That this Act shall

take effect January 1, 1990.

10-1301.

(A)  (1) The General Assembly defines aquaculture as an
agricultural activity.

(2) Aquaculture includes the commercial rearing of
finfish, shellfish, and aquatic plants for sale, trade, barter,
or shipment.

(B)  It is the intent of the General Assembly to create an
advisory committee to promote the development of an aquaculture
industry in this State.

(C)  The Maryland Department of Agriculture is the lead
agency for promoting, coordinating, and marketing aquaculture and
aquaculture products.

(D)  The Department of Natural Resources is responsible for
enforcement of laws, regulations, and rules.

(E)  The University of Maryland is the lead agency for
research in aquaculture production AND SHALL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR
DEVELOPMENT OF EDUCATION AND EXTENSION PROGRAMS WHICH PROMOTE
AQUACULTURE AS AN INDUSTRY.

10-1302.

(a)  There is an Aquaculture Advisory Committee.

(b)  The Advisory Committee shall consist of [18] 21
members;

(1)  1 member of the Maryland Senate designated by the
President of the Senate;

(2)   1 member of the Maryland House of Delegates
designated by the Speaker of the House;

- 4929 -