The bill amends the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act by adding a new section, 1507, which restricts conservation officers from entering private property without specific authorization. The conditions under which a conservation officer may enter include obtaining permission from the property owner or lessee, having a warrant issued by a court, responding to an emergency situation, or addressing distressed wildlife that the officer has personally observed on the property.

Additionally, the bill modifies section 1602 by removing certain language and clarifying the authority of the department and its officers. It allows them to file complaints and prosecute violations of environmental laws without needing the sanction of the county prosecuting attorney, while also specifying that they can appear in court and sign vouchers for jurors' or witnesses' fees. The amendments aim to enhance the legal framework governing conservation officers' actions and ensure the protection of private property rights.

Statutes affected:
Senate Introduced Bill: 324.1602