The Habitat Corridor Conservation Stamp Act aims to enhance wildlife protection and habitat conservation in Vermont by establishing a program under the Secretary of Natural Resources. The bill highlights the importance of biodiversity and landscape connectivity, addressing the threats posed by climate change and habitat fragmentation. Key provisions include the creation of a Habitat Corridor Conservation Special Fund, financed through the sale of Habitat Corridor Conservation Stamps and other sources, and the development of a conservation plan by December 31, 2028. The bill also prohibits the taking of wildlife within designated wildlife crossings and establishes an advisory committee for oversight of funded projects.

Additionally, the bill introduces penalties for individuals who injure wildlife or damage wildlife crossings, allowing for restitution related to the treatment of injured wildlife. It empowers the Secretaries of Natural Resources and Transportation to enforce prohibitions on wildlife taking in designated areas and creates a tax credit for residents purchasing conservation stamps. The act allocates $25,000 for public education on landscape connectivity and $125,000 for land inventory and conservation planning, with an effective date of July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 32-5813