The bill amends R.S. 56:116(C) to establish regulations for a special deer hunting season using primitive firearms. It grants the commission the authority to set rules regarding the types of weapons permitted, the required licenses, the sex of deer that can be hunted, and the specific areas where this season will take place. Notably, the bill introduces new provisions allowing the use of breech loading rifles with a caliber of .35 or larger and pre-charged pneumatic devices that meet specific criteria, including a caliber of .30 or larger, a weight of at least 150 grains, and a minimum muzzle velocity of 800 feet per second, or a combination that produces at least 215 foot-pounds of energy.

Additionally, the bill specifies that deer hunting during this primitive firearms season will be limited to still hunting and may be permitted in various areas of the state where deer hunting is currently allowed or will be allowed in the future. It also allows licensees to use magnified scopes on any weapon authorized for this season, overriding any conflicting laws. The changes aim to enhance hunting opportunities while ensuring compliance with safety and regulatory standards.

Statutes affected:
SB419 Original: 56:116(C)
SB419 Engrossed: 56:116(C)
SB419 Enrolled: 56:116(C)
SB419 Act 509: 56:116(C)