H.B. No. 2842 amends the Parks and Wildlife Code to establish new regulations regarding the lethal control of white-tailed deer populations in specific areas. The bill requires entities such as political subdivisions, state and federal agencies, institutions of higher education, and property owners' associations to provide written notice to the department if they wish to control deer populations through lethal means. This notice must include evidence demonstrating either the necessity of lethal control to protect endangered or threatened species or the presence of an overpopulation of deer where recreational hunting is not a feasible solution.

Additionally, the bill outlines the department's authority to inspect properties upon receiving such notices to assess the situation and determine the need for permits. It also introduces new rules for the commission to implement regarding the issuance of permits, including the methods and locations for killing protected wildlife. The bill specifies that certain provisions do not apply to entities employing individuals for deer control under a permit, ensuring that these activities are regulated appropriately. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Parks and Wildlife Code 43.151, Parks and Wildlife Code 43.1515, Parks and Wildlife Code 43.152, Parks and Wildlife Code 43.153, Parks and Wildlife Code 62.006 (Parks and Wildlife Code 43, Parks and Wildlife Code 62)