This bill amends the membership structure of the Fish and Game Council within the Division of Fish and Wildlife, maintaining the total number of members at 11. Currently, the council includes three farmers, six sportsmen, one chair of the Endangered and Nongame Species Advisory Committee, and one individual knowledgeable in land-use management and soil conservation. The proposed changes will replace three of the six sportsmen representatives with three representatives from animal welfare organizations, resulting in an equal representation of three sportsmen and three animal welfare representatives.

Additionally, the bill clarifies the definition of "animal welfare organization" as a nonprofit entity focused on the protection and humane treatment of animals, exempt from federal taxation under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. The term of appointment for each council member is set at four years, with members serving until their successors are appointed and qualified. This revision aims to enhance the diversity of perspectives on the council by incorporating voices from animal welfare organizations alongside traditional sportsmen interests.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 13:1B-24