The bill H.166 establishes minimum requirements for hunting with dogs in Vermont, specifically targeting the training and hunting of black bears and furbearers. It introduces new definitions and regulations, including terms such as "accompanied," "at large," and "control of dog." Key provisions mandate that hunters maintain visual or auditory contact with their dogs at all times and obtain written permission from property owners before allowing dogs to run on private land. Additionally, dogs used for hunting must wear collars equipped with GPS trackers that display the owner's contact information.

The bill modifies the permit system for hunting black bears and coyotes with dogs, requiring Vermont residents to obtain permits for training and taking purposes, while imposing restrictions on the number of permits available to nonresidents. It specifies application fees and penalties for violations of the new regulations. Furthermore, the bill repeals certain existing definitions and requirements related to dog supervision and landowner permission, specifically targeting sections 10 V.S.A. App. 3.1, 3.6, and 4.20.7. The bill is set to take effect immediately upon passage, facilitating a swift transition to the new regulations.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 10-115, 10-4502, 10-4712(a), 10-4712