This bill establishes a new weighted bonus points program for hunting licenses for ram bighorn sheep and moose in Wyoming, replacing the previous preference point drawing system. Under the new program, bonus points will be calculated based on the number of years an applicant has unsuccessfully applied for a license, with the total entry for the random drawing determined by squaring the assigned bonus points. The bill also allows for the issuance of licenses through a competitive raffle, eliminating previous restrictions on certain species. Additionally, it repeals the previous preference points program under W.S. 23-1-703(b) and introduces new provisions to ensure applicants can accumulate bonus points, while the Game and Fish Commission is tasked with developing rules and regulations for implementation.

Furthermore, the bill mandates that at least seventy-five percent of available licenses in any hunt area be selected through a preference point drawing, prioritizing applicants with the highest assigned points. It also establishes that unsuccessful applicants who do not apply or pay the applicable fee during the second calendar year will be considered first-year applicants in subsequent years. The new system will apply to all hunting seasons for moose and ram bighorn sheep starting January 1, 2029, with certain sections taking effect immediately after necessary legislative processes. This transition period is designed to ensure fairness for long-term applicants and to facilitate a smooth shift for both applicants and the Game and Fish Department.

Statutes affected:
25LSO-0058 v0.5: 23-1-302, 23-1-107, 23-1-703, 23-1-705, 23-2-101, 23-2-109