.08 Egg-Bearing Female Crabs.

A. Except as provided in §B of this regulation, a person may not possess, transport, or pack a female crab from which the egg pouch or bunion has been removed, or an egg-bearing female crab known as the sponge crab.

B. A female crab from which the egg pouch or bunion has been removed, or an egg-bearing female crab known as the sponge crab may be imported into Maryland from another state by a dealer or crab processing plant:

(1) If accompanied by a bill of sale or bill of lading from the jurisdiction of origin; and

(2) Only during the time period specified in the public notice issued in accordance with §C of this regulation.

C. Public Notice.

(1) In consultation with blue crab industry advisory groups, the Department shall issue a public notice to establish a time period of 71 consecutive days when a female crab from which the egg pouch or bunion has been removed, or an egg-bearing female crab known as the sponge crab may be imported into Maryland from another state.

(2) The import time period may not begin prior to April 10 or end after July 20.

(3) The public notice shall be published on the Department’s website by April 1 of each year.

(4) The Secretary shall make a reasonable effort to disseminate a public notice issued under this section through various other media so that an affected individual has a reasonable opportunity to be informed.

(5) A violation of the restrictions set by the Secretary in accordance with section is a violation of this regulation.