This bill introduces several changes to the existing laws regarding wildlife management and conservation. Firstly, it mandates the executive director of fish and game to establish bear registration stations for the purpose of registering bears killed in the state. The bill specifies that an agent designated by the executive director will be in charge of each station, and a list of these agents and station locations will be published annually in the Hunting Digest. Additionally, the bill outlines that bear registration agents are responsible for registering each legally presented bear and attaching a registration seal as prescribed by the executive director, who will also adopt rules regarding registration agent fees.

The bill also amends the law concerning federal duck stamps, allowing for digital and electronic confirmation of a current and valid electronic migratory bird hunting and conservation stamp, removing the previous requirement of a stamp purchased within the last 45 days. Furthermore, the bill requires non-residents who wish to transport lobsters and crabs taken outside the state's jurisdiction in state waters for landing in the state to procure a non-commercial landing license. This license is also necessary for non-residents transporting these marine species for personal use, and the fee for the license will be set by the executive director. The bill clarifies that individuals holding a commercial license or federal permit for taking lobster or crabs in another jurisdiction are not eligible for this license, and violations of these provisions will result in penalties. The act is set to take effect 60 days after its passage, with an effective date of September 24, 2024.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 208:22
As Amended by the Senate: 208:22, 209:6
As Amended by the House: 208:22, 209:6, 211:49-d
Version adopted by both bodies: 208:22, 209:6, 211:49-d
CHAPTERED FINAL VERSION: 208:22, 209:6, 211:49-d