(a)
No live aquatic plant or animal may be imported into this state by a registered aquaculturist without the prior written approval of the department pursuant to the regulations adopted by the commission.
(b)
The department shall not approve the importation of, or renew a permit to import, any anadromous fish or roe thereof listed in Section 2118 or the regulations adopted under Section 2118 into the Smith River watershed by a person unless that person had a permit or authorization approved before February 22, 1988. However, the department may issue or renew a permit for the importation of any anadromous fish or roe thereof specifically for research purposes conducted at any university, college, governmental research agency, or other bona fide scientific institution, as determined by the department, engaging in scientific or public health research.