This bill proposes to amend current statutes by adding a new section, 17-321, to title 17, chapter 3, ARTICLE 1 of the Arizona Revised Statutes, which pertains to the taking of wildlife. The new provisions would allow the department to issue landowner permits for the taking of Mexican wolves on private land and certain public lands leased for grazing, specifically targeting landowners who also own private land in the state. Additionally, the bill introduces a framework for the department to create a voluntary and compensated incentive program aimed at the humane and non-lethal trapping of Mexican wolves.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that the issuance of landowner permits is contingent upon a determination by the commission that such permits are necessary to mitigate conflicts between Mexican wolves and humans or property, while also providing sport hunting opportunities in alignment with departmental rules. This represents a significant update to current law by establishing specific criteria and processes for managing interactions between landowners and Mexican wolves, as well as promoting non-lethal methods of wildlife management.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 17-321