State of Michigan
JENNIFER M. GRANHOLM governor	DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES Lansing	K. L. COOL director

October 27, 2003

1. Bill Number and Sponsor:

Senate Bill 215 (House Bill 5159)

Senator Hammerstrom, et al.

2. Purpose:

To amend 1927 PA 175, Code of Criminal Procedures, to establish as a felony the possession or release of certain prohibited species.

3. How Does This Legislation Impact Current Programs in the Department:

It allows for enforcement of proposed statutory prohibition on the possession of certain aquatic species.

4. Introduced at Agency Request?

No.

5. Agency Support?

Yes.

6. Arguments Against the Bill:

None.

7. Arguments For the Bill:

SB 215 (HB 5159) is part of a package of bills to prohibit the introduction or release of unwanted aquatic nuisance species. Specifically, SB 215 (HB 5159) recognizes the possession or release of certain prohibited aquatic species as a felony. This will allow for better enforcement of the provisions contained in the remaining bills.

8. State Revenue/Budgetary Implications:

None.

9. Implications to Local Units of Government:

None.

10. Administrative Rules Implications:

None.

11. Other Pertinent Information:

SB 215 (HB 5159) does not take effect unless SB 214 (HB 5158) is signed into law.

12. User Groups/Customers that Support this Legislation (if known):

Michigan United Conservation Clubs, Michigan Environmental Council Trout Unlimited, Michigan Bass Federation, Michigan Steelhead and Salmon Fishermen’s Association, Federation of Fly Fishers, and others.

K. L. COOL

DIRECTOR

MICHIGAN DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES

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