The bill, S.B. No. 2801, introduces a new subchapter to the Parks and Wildlife Code, specifically Subchapter J, which establishes a framework for issuing field trial permits for hunting dog competitions. It defines key terms such as "field trial," "field trial permit," "fur-bearing animal," "nongame," and "squirrel." The bill allows individuals to apply for a field trial permit that exempts registered participants from hunting license requirements while participating in the trial. The permit can only be issued for trials held on privately owned land or public land authorized by the commission, and it requires specific information in the application, including the applicant's details and the species of wildlife involved.

Additionally, the bill sets a fee of $50 for the field trial permit, which is valid for nine consecutive days and only on the specified land. The Parks and Wildlife Commission is tasked with adopting rules to specify public lands eligible for these permits and to manage wildlife during field trials. The bill aims to streamline the process for conducting hunting dog field trials while ensuring compliance with wildlife management regulations. The act will take effect immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote from both houses or on September 1, 2025, if that vote is not achieved.

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