The bill amends South Dakota's hunting regulations, specifically Section 41-8-17, to authorize the use of firearms with a bullet diameter of less than .312 inches for hunting certain animals. The existing law prohibits the use of night-vision equipment and artificial lights for hunting between sunset and sunrise, with specific exceptions for law enforcement and certain hunting activities. The amendments clarify that individuals may use night vision equipment, but not artificial light, to hunt various animals such as jackrabbits, coyotes, and raccoons on both public and private lands under specific conditions, including obtaining permission from landowners.

Additionally, the bill allows for the use of night vision equipment and artificial light on private land for hunting the same animals, provided the hunter uses a shotgun or a firearm with the specified bullet diameter. The bill also outlines the responsibilities of Department of Game, Fish and Parks employees in using night-vision equipment for animal damage control, requiring them to obtain permission from landowners before taking action. Violations of these regulations are classified as a Class 2 misdemeanor.

Statutes affected:
Introduced, 01/16/2025: 41-8-17
Enrolled, 03/04/2025: 41-8-17