2026 SESSION

INTRODUCED

26103329D

HOUSE BILL NO. 1048

Offered January 14, 2026

Prefiled January 14, 2026

A BILL to amend the Code of Virginia by adding a section numbered 28.2-401.1, relating to Marine Resources Commission; menhaden reduction fishing in the Chesapeake Bay prohibited.

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Patron—Carr

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Referred to Committee on Agriculture, Chesapeake and Natural Resources

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Be it enacted by the General Assembly of Virginia:

1. That the Code of Virginia is amended by adding a section numbered 28.2-401.1 as follows:

§ 28.2-401.1. Menhaden reduction fishing in the Chesapeake Bay prohibited.

Notwithstanding any exception provided in § 28.2-409 or any other provision of law, the Commission shall prohibit all fishing for the purse seine menhaden reduction sector in the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries.

2. That the provisions of this act shall expire upon the determination by the Secretary of Natural and Historic Resources that research specific to the Chesapeake Bay has demonstrated that the menhaden reduction fishery does not negatively impact other fisheries or menhaden-dependent species. The Secretary of Natural and Historic Resources shall certify in writing to the Virginia Code Commission that such contingency has been met.