This bill amends West Virginia Code §20-2-27 to allow the children and grandchildren of landowners in West Virginia to hunt and fish on their private land without needing a permit or license, regardless of their residency status. The bill specifies that these individuals may hunt and fish during open seasons, provided they present a valid photographic identification issued by the West Virginia State Police. Additionally, it clarifies that resident landowners, their children, and grandchildren, as well as bona fide resident tenants, can engage in these activities on their own land unless the land is designated as a wildlife refuge or preserve.

The bill also makes several changes to the existing language regarding hunting and fishing licenses. It removes the requirement for non-residents to secure a license or permit to hunt or fish, while allowing individuals under 15 years of age to fish without a license. Furthermore, it modifies the language to indicate that both resident and non-resident children and grandchildren of landowners are included in the exemption from needing a permit or license for hunting and fishing on their own land. Overall, the bill aims to simplify the regulations for landowners' families while ensuring compliance with existing wildlife laws.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 20-2-27