This bill amends Iowa law to classify black bears as fur-bearing animals, thereby regulating their hunting and trapping. Specifically, it adds "black bear" to the list of fur-bearing animals in Section 481A.1 and establishes that individuals must obtain a fur harvester license to hunt or trap black bears, subject to rules set by the natural resource commission.

Additionally, the bill introduces penalties for unlawful taking of black bears. Offenders will face scheduled fines based on the nature of the offense, and those convicted of unlawfully taking a black bear will be required to pay civil damages of $2,500. Furthermore, any unlawfully taken black bear may be seized by the director of the department of natural resources.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 481A.1, 481A.130