In October, the Virginia Marine Resources Commission (VMRC) unanimously voted to raise the saltwater recreational license fees. The increase, which is the third since 1993, is a result of continuing budget shortfalls.
According to VMRC, the increase will allow for the continuation of core recreational programs including recreational law enforcement, the Virginia Saltwater Fishing Tournament, the Game Fish Tagging Program, and the Artificial Reef Program.
source: Virginia Marine Resources Commission