Fisheries for fish and shellfish species excepted by subdivision (a) of Section 78407 and not previously included in the list of fisheries subject to this chapter may be added to the fisheries subject to this chapter, including the payment of fees pursuant to Sections 78550 to 78557, inclusive, upon receipt by the secretary of a written request by proponents for inclusion, who shall represent either fishermen or receivers, or both, who are engaged in the fishery proposed for inclusion. The fishery shall be included under this chapter after all of the following occur:
(a) The council recommends to the secretary the inclusion of the fishery, subject to the request by proponents for inclusion.
(b) Unless alternative funding is recommended by the council, the proponents for inclusion deposit funds with the secretary in an amount the secretary determines is necessary to defray the expenses of preparing necessary lists and information and conducting inclusion referenda votes of fishermen or receivers, or both, engaged in the fishery proposed for inclusion.
(c) A list of fishermen or receivers, or both, engaged in the fishery proposed for inclusion is established. The secretary shall establish a list not later than 60 days after the earlier of the following:
(1) The receipt of the deposit pursuant to subdivision (b).
(2) The receipt on an accurate list from the council.
(d) An inclusion referendum, which is not more than 60 days in duration is conducted within 90 days following the receipt of the deposit pursuant to subdivision (b) or the receipt of an accurate list from the council, whichever is earlier, under the regulations that the secretary established, consistent with all other provisions for carrying out a referendum under this chapter.
(e) A favorable vote, consistent with the percentage requirements of Section 78577 for a favorable vote of either fishermen or receivers, or both, engaged in the fishery proposed for inclusion and eligible to vote, is received.
(Amended by Stats. 1996, Ch. 726, Sec. 23. Effective January 1, 1997.)
Last modified: October 25, 2018