The bill H. 5972 aims to amend the South Carolina Code of Laws to establish a special hunting season for does, defined as biologically female deer, from January 2 to January 31. It introduces a new section, 50-11-317, which outlines the regulations for hunting does, including the requirement for individual tags issued by the Department of Natural Resources. Violations of these regulations would result in misdemeanor charges and fines. Additionally, the bill adds section 50-9-42, mandating that hunters obtain special doe season tags and licenses, with specific provisions for residents and nonresidents regarding the number of tags they can purchase and associated costs.

Furthermore, the bill amends section 50-9-650 to increase the number of antlerless deer tags available for purchase and requires the Department of Natural Resources to produce literature encouraging hunters to take antlerless deer. This literature will promote the message "Save Our Herd. Take a Doe." The bill is currently under consideration in the House Committee on Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Environmental Affairs and will take effect upon the Governor's approval.

Statutes affected:
01/29/2026: 50-11-317, 50-9-42, 50-9-650
Latest Version: 50-11-317, 50-9-42, 50-9-650