§ 28.2-509 Maximum weight for patent tongs; teeth length; penalty
It is unlawful for any person to use patent tongs exceeding 100 pounds in gross weight, including any attachments other than rope, for the taking or catching of oysters. The teeth of the patent tongs shall not exceed four inches in length. The possession of patent tongs exceeding this weight or teeth length while oysters are in the boat shall constitute prima facie evidence of a violation of this section.
A violation of this section is a Class 3 misdemeanor.
History
This law was first created in 1962. The record of its establishment is cataloged in chapter 406 of that year’s edition of “Acts of Assembly,” the annual state publication listing all changes made to the Code of Virginia in that year. Unfortunately, the 1962 “Acts” aren’t available online. It has been modified 1 time. Those modifications are cataloged by “The Acts of Assembly,” a state publication, by year and chapter. Those modifications that can be read on the General Assembly’s website will be linked accordingly. That modification is as follows: in 1992, chapter 836.
1962, c. 406, § 28.1-84; 1992, c. 836.