This bill amends existing laws related to fish and game violations, permits, and licenses. It mandates increased restitution for the illegal taking or possession of certain animals, changing the language from "may" to "shall" to enforce mandatory restitution. The restitution amounts for various animals have been significantly increased, such as from $250 to $1,000 for deer and from $15 to $50 for certain birds. Additionally, the bill establishes a class A misdemeanor penalty for individuals found guilty of three separate violations of fish and game laws within seven years, and it allows for longer hunting license suspensions for repeat offenders.

Furthermore, the bill removes the requirement for a perpetual crossbow permit for individuals with disabilities, instead requiring record retention for seven years. It also adds Atlantic menhaden to the list of species that nonresidents cannot take unless their home state offers reciprocal licensing privileges. The effective date for certain sections of the bill is set for 60 days after passage, while the remainder will take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 207:55, 214:19, 214:37
As Amended by the House: 207:55, 214:19, 214:37, 207:10-c
As Amended by the Senate: 207:55, 214:19, 214:37, 207:10-c, 211:49-a
Version adopted by both bodies: 207:55, 214:19, 214:37, 207:10-c, 211:49-a
CHAPTERED FINAL VERSION: 207:55, 214:19, 214:37, 207:10-c, 211:49-a
HB655 text: 207:55, 214:19, 214:37