Sosnoski Bill To Allow Dockside Fish Sales Passes RI Senate

The Rhode Island Senate has passed legislation introduced by Sen. V. Susan Sosnowski (D-Dist. 37, New Shoreham, South Kingstown) that would allow the direct dockside sale of fish to continue post-pandemic.

The bill would let commercial fishers apply for a direct sale dealer license from the Department of Environmental Management. Finfish would be headed, gutted and filleted dockside straight from the vessel. Lobsters, crabs and whelk would be sold live.

“Commercial fisheries have taken a particular beating during the COVID pandemic,” said Sosnowski in a news release. “Those in the seafood industry are just starting to get back on their feet now since the closure of restaurants and other businesses and supply chains.”

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Last year, the DEM issued provisions temporarily allowing fishermen to sell their catch dockside to consumers and retailers.

“This legislation will make those temporary protocols law,” said Sosnowski. “Under the legislation, all seafood must be stored and handled in a safe and sanitary manner pursuant to department regulations.”

The measure now moves to the House of Representatives, where similar legislation has been introduced by Rep. Justin K. Price (R-Dist. 39, Richmond, Hopkinton, Exeter).