The bill aims to enhance the rehabilitation of orphaned, injured, or ill wildlife in West Virginia by establishing a new section in the Code of West Virginia, designated as 20-2-4a. It introduces the Wildlife Rehabilitator permit, which allows authorized individuals to capture, transport, and provide care for wildlife. The bill outlines specific requirements for obtaining this permit, including proof of certification in wildlife rehabilitation, a clean legal record regarding wildlife handling, and compliance with established minimum standards for wildlife care. Additionally, it permits licensed veterinarians, humane societies, and animal control agencies to provide emergency care without a permit, provided they transfer the wildlife to a permitted rehabilitator or the division within 48 hours.

Furthermore, the bill sets forth restrictions on the care of wildlife, emphasizing that no individual may intentionally tame or confine wildlife longer than necessary for recovery. It also addresses the handling of non-releasable wildlife, allowing such animals to be used for educational purposes or transferred to licensed facilities. The bill empowers natural resources police officers to intervene if a Wildlife Rehabilitator is found to be improperly caring for wildlife, ensuring that the rehabilitators are given notice and time to rectify any deficiencies before wildlife removal occurs. Overall, the legislation seeks to create a structured and regulated approach to wildlife rehabilitation in the state.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 20-2-4a