The bill H. 3945 aims to amend the South Carolina Code of Laws by adding Section 50-9-580, which establishes regulations for the aerial management of feral hogs and coyotes using unmanned aircraft. It defines key terms such as "Aerial Management Program" (AMP) and "Landowner's Authorization" (LOA), and stipulates that individuals holding an AMP can manage these animals only on specified tracts of land with the landowner's consent. The bill requires operators of unmanned aircraft to maintain a daily flight log and comply with all relevant regulations, while also outlining specific unlawful actions related to the management of wildlife.

Additionally, the bill sets forth penalties for violations, classifying them as misdemeanors punishable by fines or imprisonment. It explicitly prohibits the use of unmanned aircraft for sport hunting and restricts the management of wildlife to feral hogs and coyotes only, ensuring that operators adhere to the conditions set forth in the AMP and LOA. The act will take effect upon approval by the Governor.

Statutes affected:
02/11/2025: 50-9-580
02/26/2025: 50-9-580
03/05/2025: 50-9-580
Latest Version: 50-9-580