The Senate version of the bill (SB 1982) raises the snook stamp from $2 to $10. It has the support of the Environmental Preservation and Conservation Committee; however, the Tax and Finance Committee is opposed to any fee increases, and have the power to kill the Senate bill. The Snook Foundation and the Florida Wildlife Federation are asking anglers to put pressure on the chairman and committee members, by letting them know that the users (and payers) are looking for fish and wildlife protection, through this legislation, for Florida's fish and wildlife resources.

More problems are found in the House version of the bill. The first problem is language that allows 80 percent of the snook permit fees to be spent at the discretion of FWC. This sets a horrible precedent for all permits. Permit fees have always been used for the specific species a permit is bought for. And, the language that currently specifies how saltwater license money is to be spent has been removed. FWC will be given discretion as to how to spend saltwater monies, and they could use the funds for freshwater, terrestrial, and administrative resources. SF is asking anglers to send letters stating:

1) The snook permit fee should be raised from $2 to $10 with all proceeds being dedicated to research, management, law enforcement, stock enhancement, and public education that directly benefits snook.

(2) Saltwater license fees need to be spent as currently spelled out in the statutes.

(3) All fishing and hunting license fees need to be raised as specified in each bill. Florida licenses are currently among the lowest in the country.

(4) The shoreline exemption is unfair and costs Florida taxpayers millions each year ($7.00 for each of the 200,000-plus exemptions) in unclaimed federal funds from the Federal Aid in Sport Fish Restoration Act.

(5) The turkey permit and waterfowl permit should be raised to $10.00 with all funds being dedicated to benefit turkey and waterfowl populations. (6) One dollar from each hunting license should be spent on youth hunting and outdoor programs. Hunting in Florida is in serious trouble.

(7) One dollar from each fishing license should be spent on youth fishing and outdoor programs.

(8) Add Consumer Price Index increase language to keep license fees in step with inflation.

If you have already sent a letter or email, please update and forward a copy to Lou Dombrova or Jay Liles. These leaders request an e-mail or faxed letter (LETTERS ARE BEST) sent to Lou Dombrova, at ldombrova@verizon.net; or to fax number (813) 996-2632. Or send them to Jay Liles with Florida Wildlife Federation at jliles@fwfonline.org; or fax to (850)942-4431. Anglers can either copy Dombrova and/or Liles on correspondences sent directly to legislators or send direct to us with instructions for us to deliver to the appropriate legislators. Please state your position on any or all of the following issues.