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Understanding the Role of an Authorized Officer in Legal Context
Definition & Meaning
An authorized officer refers to specific individuals designated to enforce regulations under the Magnuson-Stevens Act, which governs fishery conservation and management. This includes:
Commissioned, warrant, or petty officers of the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG).
Special agents or fishery enforcement officers of the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS).
Officers from federal or state agencies that have agreements with the Secretary of Commerce and the Commandant of the USCG to enforce relevant laws.
USCG personnel working under the direction of the aforementioned officers.
Table of content
Legal Use & context
The term "authorized officer" is primarily used in the context of federal fisheries law enforcement. These officers play a crucial role in ensuring compliance with regulations designed to protect marine resources. This term is relevant in areas such as:
Environmental law
Regulatory compliance
Administrative law
Users may encounter forms or procedures related to fisheries management and enforcement that require interaction with authorized officers. US Legal Forms provides templates that can assist in navigating these legal requirements.
Key legal elements
Real-world examples
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: A special agent from NMFS conducts an inspection of a commercial fishing vessel to ensure compliance with catch limits.
Example 2: A USCG officer boards a fishing boat to verify that proper licenses are held and that the vessel is adhering to safety regulations. (hypothetical example)
Relevant laws & statutes
Key statutes include:
Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act
50 CFR Part 600 - Regulations governing fisheries management
State-by-state differences
State
Authorized Officer Variations
California
State enforcement officers may have additional authority under state fisheries laws.
Florida
Local officers may have specific roles in managing state marine resources.
This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.
Comparison with related terms
Term
Definition
Difference
Enforcement Officer
A general term for individuals authorized to enforce laws.
Authorized officers are specifically designated for fisheries laws.
Regulatory Agent
An individual who oversees compliance with regulations.
Authorized officers have specific powers under the Magnuson-Stevens Act.
Common misunderstandings
What to do if this term applies to you
If you encounter an authorized officer, it is important to understand your rights and responsibilities. Here are steps you can take:
Be respectful and cooperative during inspections or inquiries.
If you receive a citation or notice, consider consulting with a legal professional.
Explore US Legal Forms for templates related to fisheries compliance and enforcement.
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