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House sends oyster-size study and bait-dealer fixes to governor; bill allows local procurement of certain bait species
Summary
HB 6222 directs an agriculture review of UConn Avery Point Sea Grant research on minimum eastern-oyster harvest size and updates bait-dealer licensing to allow restaurants to procure certain species (for example green crabs) locally; supporters emphasized sustainability and benefits to local seafood businesses.
The House passed HB 6222, which asks the Commissioner of Agriculture to review a UConn Avery Point Sea Grant study and recommend a minimum size for eastern-oyster harvests to support sustainable fisheries. The bill also clarifies bait-dealer licensing and adds an exemption for food-service establishments that use bait species strictly for food preparation, a change intended to help Connecticut restaurants source local species such as green crabs legally.
Vice Chair Garnier said the bill\'s study provision will allow the commissioner to consult marine scientists and submit recommendations by Feb. 1, 2026. Supporters noted green crabs are an invasive species that damage eelgrass and the shellfish environment; enabling legal local procurement can both help fisheries and support restaurant demand. The House adopted an amendment (House A) to refine the language and to add bait-dealer recordkeeping and inspection standards; the bill passed as amended.
