This bill proposes several amendments to existing laws regarding fish and game violations. 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 $20 to $250 for beaver and mink. Additionally, the bill introduces a new penalty structure, establishing a class A misdemeanor for individuals found guilty of three separate violations of fish and game laws within a seven-year period, which will also result in a longer suspension of hunting licenses for repeat offenders.

Furthermore, the bill removes the requirement for crossbow permits issued to individuals with disabilities to be perpetual, instead requiring the executive director to retain records for a minimum of seven years. If a permit is lost or destroyed after this period, the permittee must re-establish eligibility. The bill is set to take effect 60 days after its passage for certain sections, while the remainder will take effect immediately. Overall, these changes aim to strengthen enforcement and penalties related to fish and game violations, as requested by the fish and game commission.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 207:55, 214:19, 214:37
As Amended by the House: 207:55, 214:19, 214:37, 207:10-c
HB655 text: 207:55, 214:19, 214:37