Senate Bill No. 69, introduced by Senator Myers, aims to amend and reenact certain provisions related to hunting and fishing licenses in Louisiana. The bill establishes the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Foundation Escrow Account, which will receive donations intended for purchasing hunting and fishing licenses for disabled veterans. Notably, the bill specifies that funds from this account can also be used to purchase a commemorative durable hard card containing licensing information for these veterans. Additionally, the bill retains the existing provisions regarding the use of funds, including a limit on administrative costs and the investment of unexpended funds by the state treasurer.

Furthermore, the bill expands eligibility for the Senior/Retired Military/Honorably Discharged Veteran Hunting and Fishing license to include honorably discharged members of the United States Armed Forces, regardless of where they were enlisted, commissioned, or discharged. The proposed law maintains the existing fee structure for these licenses, which is set at $20 per year. The changes are set to take effect on August 1, 2025, and aim to enhance support for disabled veterans and broaden access to recreational hunting and fishing opportunities for military personnel.

Statutes affected:
SB69 Original: 56:645(B), 56:3000(G), 56:3004(A)(2)
SB69 Engrossed: 56:645(B), 56:3000(G), 56:3004(A)(2)