Starting in 2015, all shellfish harvesters and certified dealers will be required to complete a new certification program in order to get their permits and licenses, a Virginia Marine Resources Commission spokeswoman said.
The new program will help ensure the health and safety of people who eat shellfish, spokeswoman Laurie Naismith said.
"Anyone who comes in contact with shellfish has got to take that course," she said.
The training is free, and will be required every two years in Virginia, according to a commission announcement. It will cover topics such as temperature control and food handling practices for shellfish to minimize growth of bacteria, it states.
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