The bill H.230 amends Vermont's fish and wildlife laws to enhance the management and regulation of wildlife activities. It introduces a new provision allowing 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. Additionally, the bill modifies the permitting process for fishing tournaments by exempting certain tournaments on the Connecticut River from needing a permit and adjusting the fee structure based on participant numbers. It also increases fines for big game violations and clarifies definitions related to wildlife violations. New regulations are established regarding the taking and possession of reptiles and amphibians, prohibiting the importation and sale of certain species unless authorized.

Moreover, the bill amends 10 V.S.A. § 5410 to enhance the confidentiality of information related to threatened or endangered species, specifying that the Secretary shall not disclose specific locations of these species or their habitats, with certain exceptions. It also repeals previous provisions in 10 V.S.A. § 4829 concerning reimbursement for damages caused by deer or black bear to farmers, effectively removing the entitlement to such reimbursement. 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