This bill proposes the addition of a new section, 20-2-65, to the Code of West Virginia, which allows the use of drones equipped with thermal imaging technology for the recovery of big game, specifically black bear, deer, elk, and turkey. The bill outlines several key provisions, including the requirement for hunters to obtain permission from landowners before using drones on their property, and the prohibition of possessing firearms or other hunting implements while a drone is in flight. Additionally, the bill clarifies that the use of drones for recovery does not constitute "pursue" or "take" as defined in existing law, and operators of these drones are exempt from hunting permit requirements, provided they are not the ones taking the game.

Furthermore, the bill specifies that drones equipped with night vision, infrared, or thermal imagery devices may be used in conjunction with firearms or bows, but only for the purpose of locating and recovering big game. Importantly, it states that a hunting license is not required to operate the drone for these purposes. Overall, the legislation aims to modernize hunting practices by incorporating drone technology while ensuring that wildlife is not harassed during the recovery process.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 20-2-65