House Bill No. 662 amends existing laws regarding the seizure and euthanization of sick, injured, or orphaned wildlife in Louisiana. The bill specifically limits the authority of the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) by prohibiting the seizure of such wildlife without a warrant issued by a district court. Additionally, it mandates that no sick, injured, or orphaned wildlife can be euthanized without a contradictory hearing and a court order confirming that the animal poses an immediate danger to public health and safety. The bill also clarifies that the provisions apply retroactively to any animal in possession, regardless of when it was initially acquired.

The bill modifies current law by changing the definition of animals that can be seized, now specifying that only dead animals can be seized without a warrant. It also retains existing rehabilitation provisions for injured and orphaned wildlife while ensuring that individuals who possess such animals are not penalized if they comply with the new requirements. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the protection of wildlife and ensure due process for individuals in possession of sick, injured, or orphaned animals.

Statutes affected:
HB662 Original: 56:56(A)(1)