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 without making reasonable efforts to retrieve it, with exceptions for diseased or grossly mutilated animals, as well as animals taken in defense of person or property. The bill establishes that no person shall commit wanton waste of a wild animal they have wounded or killed while hunting, making such an act a violation. Additionally, it allows for 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. It defines a "contest" as any competition involving two or more persons where prizes are awarded for taking wildlife. However, it clarifies that this prohibition does not apply to lawful hunting practices, scientific investigations, or specific contests comparing sizes of registered deer and turkeys. Violations of this section are classified as a class B misdemeanor. The bill is set to take effect on January 1, 2026, and it is expected to have indeterminable fiscal impacts on state and local expenditures related to enforcement and judicial processes.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 207:1