This bill amends Section 483A.8 of the Iowa Code to define and regulate deer hunting practices, specifically introducing the concepts of "group hunting" and "party hunting." Group hunting is defined as multiple hunters hunting deer on the same land, either cooperatively or individually, using only the tag of the hunter who harvested the deer. In contrast, party hunting allows resident hunters to share their tags, enabling any member of the party to use any tag for deer taken by the group. However, party hunting is restricted to resident hunters and is not permitted for nonresident hunters.

The bill permits group hunting for both resident and nonresident hunters, while allowing party hunting exclusively for resident hunters under rules set by the natural resource commission. Nonresident hunters are explicitly prohibited from engaging in party hunting. Violations of these regulations will result in a simple misdemeanor, carrying a scheduled fine of $35. This legislation aims to clarify hunting practices and establish penalties for noncompliance.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 483A.8