The bill amends West Virginia Code 20-2-5j to allow hunters to use leashed dogs and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for tracking mortally wounded deer, elk, turkey, wild boar, or bear. It specifies that hunters may use a dog handler and/or a licensed UAV operator for this purpose, while maintaining physical control of the leashed dog. The bill also clarifies that tracking with a dog or UAV is considered hunting, and all participants must possess valid hunting licenses or meet other legal requirements. Additionally, it allows hunters who are physically unable to accompany the dog handler to designate the handler to kill the mortally wounded animal.

Furthermore, the bill mandates that any dog handler or UAV operator providing tracking services for profit must be licensed as an outfitter or guide, and UAV operators must comply with FAA regulations if not operating on their own property. The Director is tasked with providing a public list of licensed outfitters and guides who offer dog tracking or UAV tracking services by September 1st each year.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 20-2-5j
Committee Substitute: 20-2-5j, 61-10-34
Engrossed Committee Substitute: 20-2-5j, 61-10-34
Committee Substitute for the Committee Substitute: 20-2-5j
Engrossed Committee Substitute for the Committee Substitute: 20-2-5j
Enrolled Version: 20-2-5j