Alrighty

Over at Mr. Completely there is some news regarding an environmental act that was strengthened.

He links to the Marten Law Group site. They mention:

"Lame Duck Congress Reauthorizes and Revamps Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act"

There seems to be new room for the feds to charge for national or "regional registration." Federal licensing for individual recreational fishing?

"Registry of Recreational Fishing. Previously, the Magnuson-Stevens Act regulated only commercial fisheries. The legislation will establish a regional registry system for recreational fishers (individuals and vessels). No fees can be charged as a result of the registry until January 1, 2011. Recreational fishers or charter fishing vessels licensed, permitted or registered through state programs may be exempt, if the data collected through the state program is sufficient for federal uses."

We'll see. They would probably just force the costs on to the state license paperwork. Typical government creep. I have zero confidence in phrases such as "may be exempt."