The bill establishes a new weighted bonus points program for ram bighorn sheep and moose hunting license random draws in Wyoming, replacing the existing preference point drawing system. Key amendments include the introduction of "bonus points" and "weighted bonus points" in various sections of the law, which will be used to calculate an applicant's chances in the random drawing for licenses. The bill specifies that applicants will accumulate bonus points based on the number of years they have unsuccessfully applied for a license, with these points being squared to determine their total entry in the weighted bonus point random drawing.

Additionally, the bill mandates that the Game and Fish Commission develop rules to transition from preference points to this new bonus point system and to implement the weighted bonus point random drawing by January 1, 2027. The act will apply to all hunting seasons for moose and ram bighorn sheep commencing on or after this date. The bill also includes provisions for nonresident applicants, allowing for the establishment of nonrefundable fees associated with the bonus point program. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance the fairness and effectiveness of the hunting license allocation process in Wyoming.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 23-1-107, 23-1-703, 23-2-101