The 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 from permit requirements and adjusting the fee structure based on participant numbers. Additionally, it increases fines for big game violations, clarifies definitions related to wildlife violations, and introduces new rules governing the taking and possession of reptiles and amphibians.

Moreover, the bill establishes stricter regulations on the importation and possession of certain wildlife, including a prohibition on importing pond slider turtles unless they were legally acquired before a specified date. It enhances penalties for violations related to the commercial trade of wildlife and mandates public notice and comment periods for permits concerning endangered species. The bill also amends 10 V.S.A. § 5410 to protect the confidentiality of threatened or endangered species locations, allowing disclosure only under specific circumstances. Furthermore, it repeals provisions in 10 V.S.A. § 4829 regarding reimbursement for damages caused by deer or black bear to farmers, eliminating the eligibility criteria and reimbursement process. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, with certain 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