This bill introduces a definition for "game camera" and regulates its use in hunting and surveillance of game animals and fur-bearing animals. A game camera is defined as any device capable of recording and transmitting photographic or video data, with or without a wire, to a remote device, such as a computer, smartphone, or other viewing device. The bill allows the use of game cameras for locating and surveilling game animals, but prohibits taking a game animal on the same calendar day that the animal was viewed remotely via a game camera in that area. It also sets rules for placing game cameras on private property, requiring consent from the property owner or signage permitting their use. Game cameras must be labeled with the owner's contact information, and violations of these provisions can result in fines and potential forfeiture of the camera and related devices.

Additionally, the bill modifies penalties for certain controlled drug offenses involving schedule I, II, III, or IV drugs. It changes the penalty for a first offense from a class B felony to a misdemeanor, and for subsequent offenses, from a class A felony to a class B felony. The fiscal impact of the bill on state and county expenditures is indeterminable, but the bill provides estimates for various judicial and correctional costs associated with the new offenses and penalties. The effective date for the act is set for January 1, 2024.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 207:1
As Amended by the House: 207:1
As Amended by the House (2nd): 207:1, 318-B:26