The bill amends South Dakota law regarding the use of night-vision equipment and artificial light for hunting certain animals. Specifically, it modifies Section 41-8-17 to allow the use of a firearm with a cartridge having a bullet diameter of less than .312 inches for hunting jackrabbits, coyotes, beaver, foxes, raccoons, opossums, badgers, skunks, and rodents during the period from January 1 to August 31. This provision applies to both public and private lands, with specific conditions regarding land access and permissions.

Additionally, the bill clarifies the definitions of "artificial light" and "night-vision equipment" to ensure proper understanding of the terms used in the context of hunting regulations. The bill maintains existing prohibitions against using night-vision equipment or artificial light for hunting during nighttime hours, with exceptions for law enforcement and specific hunting scenarios outlined in the amended section. 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