The proposed bill, Substitute Bill No. 5388, aims to amend the fishing and hunting rights of certain Native American tribes in Connecticut. It repeals Section 47-65a of the general statutes and introduces new provisions effective October 1, 2025. Under the new law, any Indian may hunt or trap wild birds and quadrupeds, as well as fish, on their tribe's reservation without a license, adhering to regulations set by the council and any seasonal or bag limits established by law. Additionally, the bill modifies the criteria for obtaining a private land deer permit, reducing the minimum size of the reservation from 250 acres to 10 acres, and limits the issuance of permits to one per season for each Indian.

Furthermore, the bill establishes a new ceremonial taking permit that allows any Indian to take an animal specimen on state lands for ceremonial purposes, without a fee. This permit is restricted to one taking per individual and only for species that are otherwise permissible to take on state lands. The overall intent of the bill is to enhance the rights of Native American tribes regarding hunting and fishing while ensuring compliance with specific regulations.

Statutes affected:
ENV Joint Favorable Substitute: 47-65a
File No. 714: 47-65a
APP Joint Favorable: 47-65a