This bill introduces new legal definitions and prohibitions regarding wanton animal waste and certain wildlife hunting contests. Specifically, it defines "wanton waste" as the intentional act of leaving a wounded or killed animal in the field or forest without making reasonable efforts to retrieve it for consumption or use, with exceptions for diseased or grossly mutilated animals, as well as animals taken in defense of person or property. The bill prohibits any person from committing wanton waste of a wild animal that has been wounded or killed while hunting, establishing penalties for violations. Additionally, it allows the executive director to adopt rules regarding the applicability of this section to hunting and fishing in the state.

Furthermore, the bill prohibits the organization, promotion, or participation in wildlife killing contests that target species regulated by the fish and game commission, defining such contests as competitions where prizes are awarded for taking individuals of covered species. Exceptions are made for lawful taking, scientific investigations, and specific contests comparing sizes of registered deer and wild turkeys, as well as permitted fishing derbies. Violations of this section are classified as a class B misdemeanor. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2026, and its implementation may have indeterminable fiscal impacts on state and local expenditures related to enforcement and judicial processes.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 207:1