LAUZEN. New Act 625 ILCS 45/2-2 from Ch. 95 1/2, par. 312-2 625 ILCS 45/11A-7 new Creates the Harmful Aquatic Organisms Act. Allows the Director of Natural Resources to regulate aquatic macrophytes, Eurasian water milfoil, purple loosestrife, and other exotic species. Allows the Director to determine if the waters of this State are infected with exotic species and to close access to infested waters. Prohibits the introduction and transport of certain exotic species within the State. Prohibits the launching of watercraft that have certain exotic species attached. Allows the Director to issue permits for the propagation, possession, importation, purchase, or transport of certain exotic species for the purposes of disposal, control, research, or education and for the harvesting of bait from infested waters. Provides criminal and civil penalties for violations of the Act. Amends the Boat Registration and Safety Act. Allows the Department to inspect watercraft for the purpose of determining if the Harmful Aquatic Organisms Act is being complied with. Allows the Department to suspend the watercraft license or the watercraft operating privileges of a person for certain violations of the Harmful Aquatic Organisms Act. FEB-22-2001 S FIRST READING FEB-22-2001 S REFERRED TO SENATE RULES COMMITTEE RULES FEB-28-2001 S ASSIGNED TO COMMITTEE AGRIC & CON MAR-07-2001 S POSTPONED MAR-21-2001 S TO SUBCOMMITTEE MAR-21-2001 S COMMITTEE AGRIC & CON MAR-31-2001 S RE-REFERRED TO RULES COMM/RULE 3-9(A) RULES JAN-07-2003 S SESSION SINE DIE END OF INQUIRY Full Text Bill Summary