Maine § 6721-A. - Shell size minimum
Full text of Maine Maine Revised Statutes § 6721-A. — Shell size minimum, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 6721-A.. Shell size minimum
1. Minimum shell size. Except as provided in subsection 4, this subsection governs the shell size limits of scallops.
A. From December 1, 2003 to November 30, 2004, a person may not possess, ship, transport, buy or sell scallops that are less than 3 3/4 inches in the longest diameter. [PL 2003, c. 520, §8 (RAL).]
B. On December 1, 2004 and thereafter, a person may not possess, ship, transport, buy or sell scallops that are less than 4 inches in the longest diameter. [PL 2003, c. 520, §8 (RAL).]
2. Prima facie evidence. It is prima facie evidence of possession of illegal scallops if a vessel contains scallops less than the minimum shell size set by this section or the minimum shell size set by rules adopted pursuant to this section while a person licensed under this subchapter or crew member of a person licensed under this subchapter is shucking scallops.
3. Release of undersize scallops. Those scallops that are less than the minimum shell size established by this section or by rules adopted pursuant to this section must be immediately liberated into the waters from which they were taken.
4. Rules. After December 1, 2004, the commissioner may adopt rules to increase the minimum shell size set by this section. Rules adopted pursuant to this section are routine technical rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2‑A.
5. Violation. Notwithstanding section 6174, subsection 3, a person who violates this section commits a civil violation for which the following penalties apply:
A. For the first offense, a mandatory fine of $500 is imposed and all scallops on board may be seized; [PL 2007, c. 695, Pt. I, §4 (RPR).]
B. For the 2nd offense, a mandatory fine of $750 is imposed and all scallops on board may be seized; and [PL 2007, c. 695, Pt. I, §4 (RPR).]
C. For the 3rd and subsequent offenses, a mandatory fine of $750 is imposed and all scallops on board may be seized. This penalty is imposed in addition to the penalty imposed under section 6728‑B. [PL 2007, c. 695, Pt. I, §4 (RPR).]
Frequently Asked Questions About Maine § 6721-A.
What does Maine Revised Statutes § 6721-A. cover?
Section 6721-A. ("Shell size minimum") is part of the Maine Revised Statutes, the codified statutory law of Maine. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Maine § 6721-A.?
A common citation format is "Maine Revised Statutes § 6721-A." (Maine). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Maine law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Maine official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Maine attorney.
How does Maine § 6721-A. apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Maine can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Maine.