This bill establishes a new weighted bonus points program for ram bighorn sheep and moose hunting licenses 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 residency verification requirements, along with rules for assigning bonus points to both residents and nonresidents.

Furthermore, the bill mandates that at least seventy-five percent (75%) of available licenses in any hunt area be selected through a preference point drawing, prioritizing applicants with the highest assigned points. If licenses remain after this selection, they will be available through a random drawing among remaining applicants. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2029, allowing for a smooth transition to the new system, with the Game and Fish Commission responsible for creating the necessary rules by that date. Certain sections of the bill may take effect immediately upon completion of legislative processes, as per the Wyoming Constitution, to benefit long-term applicants and facilitate the transition for 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