H 4422
An Act prohibiting the aquaculture of any species of octopus for the purpose of human consumption
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Sign in to take action- Introduced
- Passed House
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill prohibits the farming of octopuses for human consumption in Massachusetts. It defines key terms like ‘aquaculture’ and ‘octopus’ to specifically target the cultivation of octopuses for food. The bill also outlines penalties for violating the ban, including daily fines and potential recovery of economic benefit from the violation. Importantly, it allows for the continued wild-capture and sale of octopuses.
Key provisions
- Defines ‘aquaculture’ and ‘octopus’ for the purpose of the law.
- Prohibits the aquaculture of any species of octopus for human consumption.
- Prohibits the sale, possession, or transport of farmed octopuses.
- Establishes a civil penalty of up to $1,000 per day for violations.
- Allows for the continued wild-capture of octopuses.
- Authorizes the Division to create regulations to implement the law.
- Requires regulation of wild-caught octopuses shipped to the Commonwealth.
Who is affected
- Aquaculture businesses
- Individuals involved in octopus farming
- Retailers selling octopus
- Consumers of octopus
- The fishing industry (specifically regarding wild-caught octopus)
Notable changes
- Creates a specific ban on octopus aquaculture, distinguishing it from other forms of aquatic farming.
- Clarifies that wild-caught octopuses are exempt from the ban.
Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
Primary sponsor
Joint Committee on Agriculture and Fisheries
Cosponsors
Christopher Hendricks
Natalie M. Higgins
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Bill H.4422 194th (Current)
An Act prohibiting the aquaculture of any species of octopus for the purpose of human consumption
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Bill Information
Bill Information
Sponsor: Joint Committee on Agriculture and Fisheries Status: Referred to House Committee on Ways and Means
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Bill History Cosponsors Committee Vote
Bill History
Displaying 3 actions for Bill H.4422
| Date | Branch | Action |
| 9/8/2025 | House | Reported from the committee on Agriculture and Fisheries |
| 9/8/2025 | House | New draft of H127 |
| 9/8/2025 | House | Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on House Ways and Means |
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