This bill aims to enhance penalties and regulations related to fish and game violations. It mandates restitution for the illegal taking or possession of certain animals, increasing the restitution amounts for various species, such as raising the restitution for deer from $250 to $1,000 and for wild turkey from $200 to $500. The bill also establishes a mandatory restitution requirement for convicted individuals, replacing the previous discretionary language. Additionally, it introduces 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 perpetual nature of crossbow permits for individuals with disabilities, requiring them to re-establish eligibility after seven years. It adds Atlantic menhaden to the list of species that nonresidents cannot take unless their home state offers reciprocal licensing privileges. The bill's effective date is set for 60 days after passage for certain sections, while others will take effect immediately upon passage. Overall, the bill seeks to strengthen enforcement and compliance with fish and game laws to protect wildlife resources.

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
HB655 text: 207:55, 214:19, 214:37