Natural Resources - Commercial Crab Harvest - Start Time

SB 53 requires Maryland's Department of Natural Resources to establish regulations allowing commercial crab harvesters (specifically those using trotline gear) to begin catching crabs 4 hours before sunrise from July 1 to September 30 each year. It also mandates an additional early work hour on Labor Day, Memorial Day, July 4, and the day before each holiday for licensees using all legal gear. The bill does not change existing license fees for crab-related activities or equipment. Regulations must include public hearings before taking effect, with notice published in affected regions.