Bill H.230 amends Vermont's fish and wildlife laws to enhance the management and regulation of wildlife activities. A key feature of the bill is the introduction of a new provision that allows the Commissioner of Fish and Wildlife to designate Labor Day weekend as a free mentored fishing weekend, enabling unlicensed anglers to fish alongside licensed anglers. The bill also modifies the permitting process for fishing tournaments by exempting certain tournaments on the Connecticut River from needing a permit and establishing a tiered fee structure based on participant numbers. Additionally, it increases fines for big game violations and clarifies definitions related to these violations.

The bill further introduces regulations concerning the taking and possession of reptiles and amphibians, prohibiting the intentional taking of these species without authorization and establishing rules for the importation, possession, and sale of specific turtle species, particularly the pond slider turtle. It enhances the jurisdiction of the Vermont Criminal Division over fish and wildlife violations and ensures public awareness regarding permits for endangered species. Notably, the bill amends 10 V.S.A. § 5410 to protect the confidentiality of threatened or endangered species' locations, with specific exceptions for certain parties. It also repeals provisions in 10 V.S.A. § 4829 that allowed farmers to seek reimbursement for damages caused by deer or black bears. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, with specific provisions related to reptiles and amphibians taking effect on January 1, 2027.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 10-4251, 10-4613, 10-4518, 10-4552, 10-4572, 10-4709, 10-5403(a), 10-5403, 10-5408, 10-5410, 10-4829
As Passed By the House -- Official: 10-4251, 10-4613, 10-4518, 10-4552, 10-4572, 10-4709, 10-5403(a), 10-5403, 10-5408, 10-5410, 10-4829
As Passed By the House -- Unofficial: 10-4251, 10-4613, 10-4518, 10-4552, 10-4572, 10-4709, 10-5403(a), 10-5403, 10-5408, 10-5410, 10-4829