Diamondback terrapin protection areas; MRC to develop in portions of Chesapeake Bay, etc.

Marine Resources Commission; Chesapeake Bay; diamondback terrapin protection areas; use of bycatch reduction devices on crab traps; penalty. Requires the Marine Resources Commission, in collaboration with the Crab Management Advisory Committee and the Virginia Institute of Marine Science, to develop and establish by December 1, 2027, diamondback terrapin protection areas in those portions of the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries where interactions may occur between diamondback terrapins and any nets, traps, pots, or other fishing devices or gear.

The bill directs the Commission to require by regulation bycatch reduction devices, as defined in the bill, on all recreational crab pots placed within any such diamondback terrapin protection area established by the Commission. A violation of such regulation is a Class 3 misdemeanor.