Maryland HB1304 strengthens enforcement of fishing license requirements in Chesapeake Bay and coastal waters.

Maryland HB1304 amends the Natural Resources Article to enhance enforcement of fishing license requirements. It specifies that any person fishing commercially or recreationally without a license in Chesapeake Bay, coastal waters, or Atlantic coastal bays will face penalties. The bill also applies retroactively to previous offenses and mandates the suspension of fishing privileges for multiple offenses. The Department of Natural Resources is required to notify individuals charged with fishing without a license. The changes take effect June 1, 2026.

Maryland HB1304 strengthens enforcement of fishing license requirements in Chesapeake Bay and coastal waters.

Maryland HB1304 amends the Natural Resources Article to enhance enforcement of fishing license requirements. It specifies that any person fishing commercially or recreationally without a license in Chesapeake Bay, coastal waters, or Atlantic coastal bays will face penalties. The bill also applies retroactively to previous offenses and mandates the suspension of fishing privileges for multiple offenses. The Department of Natural Resources is required to notify individuals charged with fishing without a license. The changes take effect June 1, 2026.