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 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. The bill permits group hunting for both resident and nonresident hunters, while party hunting is restricted to resident hunters and is subject to rules set by the natural resource commission. Nonresident hunters are explicitly prohibited from engaging in party hunting.

Additionally, the bill establishes penalties for violations, classifying them as simple misdemeanors with a scheduled fine of $35. This legislative change aims to clarify hunting practices and ensure compliance with the new definitions and regulations surrounding deer hunting in Iowa.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 483A.8