Assembly Bill 117 aims to address issues related to the hunting of sandhill cranes and the damage they cause to agricultural crops, particularly corn. The bill directs the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) to establish a reimbursement program for farmers who purchase seed treatments to deter sandhill cranes from consuming corn seeds. Eligible applicants can receive up to 50% reimbursement for their seed treatment costs, capped at $6,250 per planting season. The bill also mandates that DATCP prioritize reimbursements based on specific criteria, including previous federal depredation permits and the vulnerability of the land to crane damage. Additionally, the bill creates a continuing appropriation to support this program, with specified funding amounts for the fiscal years 2025-26 and 2026-27.

Furthermore, the bill authorizes the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to establish a hunting season for sandhill cranes, contingent upon approval from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. It outlines the requirements for obtaining hunting permits, including a hunter education program, and sets permit fees for residents and non-residents. The bill also increases the wildlife damage surcharge to fund wildlife damage abatement programs, with the increases contingent on the establishment of a sandhill crane hunting season. The bill includes various amendments and new provisions related to hunting permits and the management of sandhill crane populations, ensuring compliance with federal regulations.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 20.370(5)(fq), 20.370, 29.179(4), 29.179