House Bill No. 750, introduced by Representative Billings, amends R.S. 56:651 to regulate the issuance of hunting licenses for pen-raised quail and mallard hunting preserves in Louisiana. The bill stipulates that licenses for pen-raised mallard hunting can only be granted to preserves located outside of the coastal zone, which is defined as the area south of Interstate 10 from the Texas state line to Baton Rouge, south of Interstate 12 from Baton Rouge to Slidell, and south of Interstate 10 from Slidell to the Mississippi state line. However, an exception is made for hunting preserves within the coastal zone north of Highway 90 that were licensed in the 2024 license year.

The proposed changes aim to clarify the licensing process and ensure that hunting preserves comply with geographical restrictions. The bill reflects a shift in policy regarding where these licenses can be issued, emphasizing the protection of coastal ecosystems while still allowing for regulated hunting activities in designated areas. Additionally, the bill includes a technical amendment that updates the applicable date for previously licensed preserves from prior to January 1, 2025, to the 2024 license year.

Statutes affected:
HB164 Original:
HB164 Engrossed: