This bill proposes several updates to current statutes regarding the discharge of firearms and archery equipment while taking wildlife. Under the new provisions, it would allow the discharge of shotguns or archery equipment within one-quarter mile but outside of one-eighth mile from an occupied farmhouse or other structures without needing the owner's permission. Additionally, the bill removes the authority of counties to adopt ordinances that restrict firearm discharge within one-quarter mile of occupied structures without consent. The definitions of "archery equipment" and "shotgun" are also clarified, ensuring that archery equipment does not include any device classified as a firearm.

Furthermore, the bill modifies existing penalties and regulations related to wildlife taking. It reinstates the prohibition on discharging firearms within one-fourth mile of an occupied residence without permission, while also establishing a rebuttable presumption regarding consent for such actions. The bill makes technical changes to existing language and updates the penalties for violations, including increasing the maximum civil penalty against political subdivisions for violations of these regulations. Overall, the bill aims to balance wildlife management with the rights of property owners regarding firearm discharge.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 13-3107, 17-309, 17-340, 13-704, 13-604, 17-101, 9-499.04, 13-3101, 17-302
Senate Engrossed Version: 13-3107, 13-3108, 17-309, 17-340, 13-704, 13-604, 17-101, 9-499.04, 13-3101, 13-3105, 17-240, 12-781, 17-302
House Engrossed Version: 13-3107, 13-3108, 17-309, 17-340, 13-704, 13-604, 17-101, 9-499.04, 13-3101, 13-3105, 17-240, 12-781, 17-302