So right now we have the option of issuing a misdemeanor summons. Due to the Corona virus, the courts are only dealing with very serious crimes where people are being taken into custody for domestic violence issues, homicides etc. so we have to push the court date on our charges to late June, early July and hope the pandemic ends by then. This is happening with all police departments. If they don't have a fishing license we can issue and infraction of which they have the decision to either pay or challenge in court which is good for us because the courts are closed right now. If they pay it is an automatic guilty plea and they could have their license suspended. If they don't and refuse to challenge it in court, a warrant is issued for their arrest. When we find them, they not only have to pay the fine, but also appear in court on a misdemeanor summons for failure to appear, pay or plead not guilty. This way, the state receives something instead of a possible nolle. We are in the process of changing our enforcement measures for striped bass from a misdemeanor summons to an infraction for this very reason.
Capt. How is that change in legislation coming ? I know its a slow process. Is there any opposition ? Anyone we can call to help it along ?