This bill establishes a new weighted bonus points program for the random drawing of hunting licenses for ram bighorn sheep and antlered moose, replacing the previous preference point drawing system. Starting in the 2026 license year, applicants with fewer than twenty preference points will have their points converted to weighted bonus points, while those with twenty or more will enter a separate preference point drawing. The allocation of available licenses will be divided, with 25% going through the weighted bonus point drawing and 75% through the preference point drawing. The bill also includes provisions for applicants who do not apply for two consecutive years, resulting in the forfeiture of their points.

In addition to the new points system, the bill amends existing laws related to residency requirements, the powers of the commission, and the issuance of complimentary licenses. It repeals certain restrictions on licenses for cow or calf moose and ewe or lamb bighorn sheep, and mandates the commission to develop rules for the new bonus points program. The bill also introduces stricter regulations on the application process for big game species, prohibiting multiple applications for the same species and classifying violations as high misdemeanors, which would lead to the loss of points and disqualification for that species. The new framework for antlered moose and ram bighorn sheep licenses will take effect on January 1, 2032, with some sections becoming effective immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 23-1-107, 23-1-302, 23-1-703, 23-1-705, 23-2-101, 23-2-109
Engrossed: 23-1-107, 23-1-302, 23-1-703, 23-1-705, 23-2-101, 23-2-109