The bill amends West Virginia Code §20-2-47, which pertains to the licensing of private game farms for the propagation of animals and birds for commercial purposes. It allows the director to issue licenses for the operation of private game preserves, enabling license holders to breed, raise, and sell specified animals and birds, as well as their eggs, in accordance with established regulations. The application process requires the designation of the property for the preserve, and the director must ensure that the property is adequately enclosed and that public safety is maintained. The annual license fee is set at $10.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that domesticated poultry used for agricultural purposes, such as meat and egg production, are not classified as wild birds and therefore do not require a license for private game preserves. However, any quail or partridge intended for release into the wild does not fall under this exemption and remains subject to licensure requirements. The definitions of "domesticated poultry" and "agricultural purposes" are also provided to delineate the scope of the law.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 20-2-47
Committee Substitute: 20-2-47
Enrolled Committee Substitute: 20-2-47