Well, I had a very productive conversation with Mike Bucko who is one
of the New England representatives and part of the overall process.

Apparently, the states that have current licensening systems will have
to adjust to the NOAA standard - that's a no debate issue apparently.

Which means that, according to mandate, ALL people who fish in salt
water will be required to obtain a license and/or permit.

Further, the one license/permits for multiple passengers (commonly
called a "boat license") that states like Maryland and Virginia have
will not comply with the licensing/permitting system - all passengers
will be required to have a license permit and be registered with the
system - no exceptions.

And, this is interesting, there is no debate allowed - NOAA has formed
the system and has tested it in the Gulf states, deemed it fit with
some minor tweaking and while they have some patience with the states
involved, they will impose the registry at the end of 2009 - not 2011
as some have stated.

Oh well.