Tracking the Capitols is a source of legislation currently being tracked by the Congressional Sportsmen's Foundation state policy team to keep you informed of the most pertinent and timely state legislation affecting hunting, angling, recreational shooting and trapping and other conservation issues. Inclusion in Tracking the Capitols does not necessarily constitute support or opposition to legislation by CSF and/or the CSF States Program.

Please visit our website for day-to-day updates by CSF's State Program Team on important sportsmen's legislation. To view past bills, please visit the Tracking the Capitols Archive under the Media Room tab on the CSF website.

Note: Bill sponsors who are members of the National Assembly of Sportsmen's Caucuses are noted in bold.

Due to the high volume of legislation, Tracking the Capitols only includes bills that have had status updates within the last week. With questions about specific bills, please contact your regional CSF staff member.
Updates for the week of 
April 24, 2017

NORTHEASTNORTHEASTERN STATES


Introduced: 04/06/2017
Sponsor: Delegate Harvey Kenton, Member, Delaware Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief: General
Summary: Promotes agritourism activities within this State by broadly defining what constitutes agritourism.
Status: To House Committee on Agriculture on April 6
 
Introduced: 03/16/2017
Sponsor: Senator F. Gary Simpson, Member, Delaware Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief: White-tailed Deer Management - Hunting as a preferred Management Tool
Summary: Allows a hunter to use a handgun in lieu of a shotgun on farms permitted by DNREC through their Deer depredation programs to reduce agricultural crop damage.
Status: To House Committee on Agriculture on April 13

Introduced: 01/09/2017
Sponsor: Representative Raymond A. Wallace
Issue Brief: Seniors, Veterans, and Active Duty Military Hunting and Angling Privileges
Summary:  This bill provides that a veteran of the Armed Forces of the United States is exempt from hunter safety course requirements if that veteran provides at the time of application for a hunting license that veteran's Armed Forces Report of Transfer or Discharge, DD Form 214, or its predecessor or successor forms, or certification from the United States Department of Veterans Affairs or the appropriate branch of the Armed Forces of the United States verifying the applicant's military service and honorable discharge.
Status: In House. Passed to be engrossed on April 25
 
Introduced: 01/27/2017
Sponsor: Representative Jeffrey K. Pierce
Issue Brief: White-tailed Deer Management - Hunting as a Preferred Management Tool
Summary:  This bill requires the cultivator, owner, mortgagee or keeper of any orchard or growing crop to obtain a certificate from a game warden in order to take or kill wild animals or wild turkeys causing substantial damage to the orchard or crop. The game warden must investigate the circumstances of the application for a certificate and may issue the certificate if the game warden is satisfied that a wild animal or wild turkey is causing substantial damage to an orchard or crop. The certificate must describe the animals that may be taken or killed and the area where the animals may be taken or killed. The certificate holder must notify residents within 1,000 feet of the boundary of the area where the animals may be taken or killed that the certificate holder is authorized to take or kill those animals in that area.
Status: In Senate. Placed in legislative file (dead) on April 25

Introduced: 02/07/2017
Sponsor: Representative Jared F. Golden
Issue Brief: General
Summary:  This resolve creates the Commission To Study the Needs, Opportunities and Efficiencies Associated with the Production of Salmonid Sport Fish in Maine. The commission is required to submit its report and any accompanying legislation to the Joint Standing Committee on Inland Fisheries and Wildlife by January 30, 2018. The Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife is prohibited from making any expenditure of over $150,000 to repair or upgrade its salmonid fish hatcheries until the report is received and its recommendations acted upon.
Status: House accepts Committee Report on April 25

Introduced: 02/07/2017
Sponsor: Representative Jonathan L. Kinney
Issue Brief: General
Summary:  This bill allows ice fishing on Baker Lake and Third, Fourth and Fifth St. John ponds in Somerset County.
Status: Work Session Held on April 25

Introduced: 02/10/2017
Sponsor: Representative Peter A. Lyford, Member, Maine Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief: General
Summary:  This bill makes the following changes to the fish and wildlife licensing laws. 1. It eliminates the $50 examination fee for a taxidermy license. 2. It clarifies the length of the period of time during which a person who has obtained a moose hunting permit is ineligible to obtain another permit. 3. It authorizes the Commissioner of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife to issue a complimentary group fishing license to a person or entity that allows a group of persons with disabilities to fish in a location for a period of time as specified on the license.
Status: In Senate. Passed to be engrossed in concurrence on April 25

Introduced: 02/10/2017
Sponsor: Representative Roger E. Reed
Issue Brief: Seniors, Veterans, and Active Duty Military Hunting and Angling Privileges
Summary:  This bill guarantees a moose permit to resident applicants who are 65 years of age or older and have accumulated 30 points or more in the public chance drawing for moose permits.
Status: In House. Passed to be engrossed on April 25

Introduced: 02/10/2017
Sponsor: Representative Gary L. Hilliard, Member, Maine Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief: Public Access to Private Lands
Summary:  This bill prohibits destroying, tearing down, defacing or otherwise damaging property posting signs by hunters and provides for the one-year suspension of the hunting license of a person who is convicted of doing so.
Status: In Senate. Committee Amendment A adopted on April 25

Introduced: 02/24/2017
Sponsor: Representative Joel R. Stetkis
Issue Brief: Conservation Tax Incentives
Summary:  This bill addresses the effect of the Maine Supreme Judicial Court decision in Francis Small Heritage Trust, Inc. v. Town of Limington et al., 2014 ME 102, by specifying that holding land primarily for conservation or public access purposes is not a benevolent or charitable purpose, which is a condition necessary to obtaining an exemption from property tax. The change applies to property tax years beginning on or after April 1, 2018.
Status: Work session held on April 20

Introduced: 03/03/2017
Sponsor: Representative Dustin Michael White
Issue Brief: General
Summary:  This bill allows a person who has legally harvested an animal to keep the unregistered animal until a registration station within a reasonable distance of the person is open if no registration stations within a reasonable distance of the person are open due to a holiday or other legitimate reason.
Status: Work session held on April 25

Introduced: 04/19/2017
Sponsor: Representative Stephen J. Wood, Co-Chair, Maine Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief: Hunter Recruitment, Retention, Reactivation
Summary:  This bill replaces the Hooked on Fishing Not on Drugs program with youth and family outdoor recreational programs and activities to encourage hunting and fishing activities as well as shooting sports.
Status: Senate refers to Joint Committee on Inland Fisheries and Wildlife in concurrence on April 20

Introduced: 01/09/2017
Sponsor: Senator Eric Brakey
Issue Brief: Guns (General)
Summary:  This bill lowers from 21 years of age to 18 years of age the age at which a person may carry a concealed handgun.
Status: House adopts Majority Committee Report: Ought not to pass on April 25
 
Introduced: 03/23/2017
Sponsor: Senator Thomas B. Saviello, Co-Chair, Maine Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief: Exotic Invasive Species
Summary:  This bill temporarily increases by $1 the annual fee for the lake and river protection sticker required under the Maine Revised Statutes, Title 12, section 13058. The additional revenue from this increased fee may be used to fund a study of the State's efforts to prevent the infestation of, to control, to eradicate and to otherwise manage invasive aquatic plants and nuisance species in the waters of the State through the program implemented under Title 38, chapter 20-A.
Status: From Joint Committee on Environment and Natural Resources: Ought not to pass on April 25
 
Introduced: 02/27/2017
Sponsor: Senator Brian D. Langley, Member, Maine Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief: General
Summary:  This bill transfers authority for the licensing of land-based aquaculture from the Department of Marine Resources to the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry.
Status: House refers to Joint Committee on Marine Resources in concurrence on April 20

Introduced: 01/25/2017
Sponsor: Delegate Jay Jacobs, Member, Maryland Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief: Sunday Hunting Restrictions
Summary: Authorizes a person to hunt turkey on private property in Kent County on Sundays during the spring turkey hunting season.
Status: Signed by Governor Larry Hogan, Member, Governors Sportsmen's Caucus on April 18
 
Introduced: 02/06/2017
Sponsor: Delegate Jim Gilchrist
Issue Brief: General
Summary: Prohibits the Department of Natural Resources from reducing or altering the boundaries of certain oyster sanctuaries until the Department develops a certain plan.
Status: Became law without Governor's signature on April 6
 
Introduced: 03/20/2017
Sponsor: Representative Ann-Margaret Ferrante
Issue Brief: Enforcement
Summary:  Further regulates the enforcement of illegal hunting practices.
Status: Hearing scheduled (05/02/2017) on April 25

Introduced: 03/20/2017
Sponsor: Representative Cory Atkins
Issue Brief: Interstate Wildlife Violators Compact
Summary:  Relates to the enforcement of illegal hunting practices.
Status: Hearing scheduled (05/02/2017) on April 25

Introduced: 02/22/2017
Sponsor: Senator James Eldridge, Member, Massachusetts Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief: No-Net-Loss
Summary:  Protects the natural resources of the commonwealth.
Status: Hearing scheduled (05/02/2017) on April 25

Introduced: 02/22/2017
Sponsor: Senator Michael Moore, Member, Massachusetts Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief: Interstate Wildlife Violators Compact
Summary:  Further regulates the enforcement of illegal hunting practices.
Status: Hearing scheduled (05/02/2017) on April 25
 
Introduced: 01/04/2017
Sponsor: Representative Mark L. Proulx, Member, New Hampshire Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief: Guns (General)
Summary:  Allows the possession of a loaded rifle or loaded shotgun, or a rifle or shotgun with a cartridge in a magazine or clip attached to the gun in a motorhome when not driven.
Status: Passed Senate. To House for concurrence on April 20
 
Introduced: 01/04/2017
Sponsor: Representative Steven D. Smith
Issue Brief: Off Highway Vehicles (OHV)
Summary:  Relates to temporary OHRV registrations for nonresidents.
Status: Passed Senate. To House for concurrence on April 20
 
Introduced: 02/09/2017
Sponsor: Assembly Member Steve Englebright
Issue Brief: General
Summary:  An Act to amend the executive law, in relation to preserving ecological integrity, wildlife and open space in the Adirondack Park.
Status: To Assembly Committee on Codes on April 25
 
Introduced: 02/14/2017
Sponsor: Assembly Member Dan Quart
Issue Brief: Knife Ban Repeal
Summary:  Amends the Penal Law; relates to the definition of a gravity knife.
Status: From Assembly Committee on Rules on April 24
 
Introduced: 04/25/2017
Sponsor: Assembly Member Clifford W. Crouch, Co-Chair, New York Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief: General
Summary:  Eliminates the expiration of and makes permanent, provisions of law authorizing an individual to fish with up to 3 lines in freshwater.
Status: From Assembly Committee on Environmental Conservation on April 25
 
Introduced: 01/05/2017
Sponsor: Senator Catharine Young, Member, New York Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief: Seniors, Veterans, and Active Duty Military Hunting and Angling Privileges
Summary:  Amends the Environmental Conservation Law; provides for free hunting, fishing and trapping licenses to residents of the state who are active duty members of the U.S. armed Forces regardless of where such person is stationed.
Status: From Senate Committee on Finance on April 25
 
Introduced: 01/13/2017
Sponsor: Senator Pamela Helming, Member, New York Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief: General
Summary:  Amends the Environmental Conservation Law; provides that the open season for hunting coyotes shall be all year long, provided that the county legislature has a resolution authorizing such hunting within the county.
Status: Enacting clause stricken on April 25
 
Introduced: 04/20/2017
Sponsor: Senator Liz Krueger
Issue Brief: High Fence
Summary:  Amends the Environmental Conservation Law; prohibits the taking of non-native big game mammals in a fenced or other area from which there is no means for such mammal to escape.
Status: To Senate Committee on Environmental Conservation on April 20
 
Introduced:  02/14/2017
Sponsor: Representative Neil Goodman, Member, Pennsylvania Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief:  Apprentice Hunting License
Summary:  Relates to Game; relates to the Pennsylvania Game Commission, repealing provisions relating to junior hunter projects; in hunting and furtaking licenses; provides for unlawful acts concerning licenses.
Status:  From House Committee on Game and Fisheries on April 26
 
Introduced:  02/23/2017
Sponsor: Representative Barry Jozwiak
Issue Brief:  Hunting with Dogs
Summary:  Amends Game of the Consolidated Statutes; relates to in hunting and furtaking; provides for the offense of dogs pursuing, injuring or killing big game.
Status:  From House Committee on Game and Fisheries on April 26
 
Introduced: 04/17/2017
Sponsor: Representative Todd Stephens
Issue Brief: Tethering of Dogs
Summary: Amends Titles 3, 18, 22, 34, and 42 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in race horse industry reform; provides for licenses for horse race meetings and for occupational licenses for individuals; relates to riot, disorderly conduct and related offenses; repeals provisions relating to offense of cruelty to animals; relates to live animals as prizes prohibited; relates to police animals and assault with a deadly weapon.
Status: Passed House to Senate on April 26
 
Introduced: 04/24/2017
Sponsor: Representative Patrick Harkins, Member, Pennsylvania Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief: Seniors, Veterans, and Active Duty Military, Hunting and Angling Privileges
Summary: Amends Title 34 (Game) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in hunting and furtaking licenses; provides for resident license and fee exemptions and for license costs and fees.
Status: To House Committee on Game and Fisheries on April 24

Introduced: 04/24/2017
Sponsor: Representative David Zimmerman
Issue Brief: Seniors, Veterans, and Active Duty Military, Hunting and Angling Privileges
Summary: Amends Title 34 (Game) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in hunting and furtaking licenses; provides for resident license and fee exemptions and for license costs and fees.
Status: To House Committee on Game and Fisheries on April 24
 
Introduced: 03/02/2017
Sponsor: Senator Wayne Langerholc
Issue Brief: Guns (General), Ammunition
Summary: Amends Title 53 (Municipalities Generally) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in general provisions; provides for findings regarding firearms and ammunition; relates to preemptions; provides for regulation of firearms and ammunition.
Status: To House Committee on Judiciary on April 26

Introduced: 01/19/2017
Sponsor: Representative J. Aaron Regunberg
Issue Brief: Standard Capacity Magazines
Summary:  Would criminalize the manufacture, import, possession, purchase, sale or transfer of any ammunition feeding device capable of accepting more than ten (10) rounds. This act would take effect upon passage.
Status: In House Committee on Judiciary: Committee recommends measure to be held for further study on April 25

Introduced: 01/27/2017
Sponsor: Representative Grace Diaz
Issue Brief: Guns (General)
Summary:  Would make it unlawful for any person carry a rifle or shotgun in any vehicle or conveyance or on or about their person except under limited circumstances of at least fifteen (15) years imprisonment. The act would also provide an enhanced penalty to those who unlawfully sold, transferred, given, conveyed, or caused to be sold, transferred, given or conveyed a firearm to any person under eighteen (18) years of age and that firearm is used in a crime of violence. This act would take effect upon passage.
Status: In House Committee on Judiciary: Committee recommends measure to be held for further study on April 25

Introduced: 01/27/2017
Sponsor: Representative Grace Diaz
Issue Brief: Guns (General)
Summary:  Would criminalize the mere possession of a firearm by a minor and would provide for limited exceptions while the minor is in the presence of a qualified adult or participating in certain competitive or ceremonial events. This act would take effect upon passage.
Status: In House Committee on Judiciary: Committee recommends measure to be held for further study on April 25
 
Introduced: 03/01/2017
Sponsor: Representative Ramon Perez
Issue Brief: Guns (General)
Summary:  Would allow those persons with concealed carry permits issued by other states to carry upon their person weapons in Rhode Island provided that the issuing state recognizes and gives reciprocity to RI permit holders. This act would take effect upon passage.
Status: In House Committee on Judiciary: Committee recommends measure to be held for further study on April 25

Introduced: 03/30/2017
Sponsor: Representative John G. Edwards
Issue Brief: Guns (General)
Summary:  Would allow those persons with concealed carry permits issued by other states to carry upon their person weapons in Rhode Island provided that the issuing state recognizes and gives reciprocity to RI permit holders. This act would take effect upon passage.
Status: In House Committee on Judiciary: Committee recommends measure to be held for further study on April 25

Introduced: 03/30/2017
Sponsor: Representative John G. Edwards
Issue Brief: Guns (General)
Summary:  Would authorize the attorney general to enter into agreements with other states and counties from other states to recognize and give reciprocity to concealed weapon permit holders allowing them to carry concealed weapons in this state. The other states shall have the ability to provide immediate verification of the applicant's permit. This act would also provide that any law enforcement officer with a valid, government issued identification card identifying themselves as such, can carry a concealed weapon anywhere in this state.
Status: In House Committee on Judiciary: Committee recommends measure to be held for further study on April 25

Introduced: 01/11/2017
Sponsor: Senator Kevin J. Mullin
Issue Brief: Seniors, Veterans, and Active Duty Military Hunting and Angling Privileges
Summary:  Proposes to lower from 70 years of age to 65 years of age the age at which a person may receive certain hunting or fishing licenses at no cost; provides for a permanent license.
Status: Passed House. To Senate for concurrence on April 21
 
Introduced: 02/06/2017
Sponsor: Senator John Rodgers, Co-Chair, Vermont Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief: Exotic Invasive Species
Summary:  Relates to aquatic nuisance species control; prohibits the transport of additional aquatic plants and aquatic nuisance species to or from waters of the State; requires visual inspection of vehicles, vessels, personal watercraft, seaplanes, trailers, and other equipment for aquatic plants and aquatic nuisance species when leaving a water of the State; requires a boat or personal watercraft to be cleaned in a boat wash prior to launching in a lake or pond if a public boat wash facility.
Status: Senate refused to concur in House amendments. To Conference Committee on April 25

Introduced: 03/21/2017
Sponsor: Senate Institutions Committee
Issue Brief: Conservation Tax Incentives
Summary:  Relates to authorizing the Commissioner of Forests, Parks and Recreation to amend conservation easements related to the former Hancock Lands and adjacent Averill Inholdings in Essex County.
Status: Passed House. To Senate for Concurrence on April 25

 
SOUTHEASTSOUTHEASTERN STATES


Introduced:  03/07/17
Sponsor: Representative Halsley Beshears, Co-Chair, Florida Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief:  General
Summary:  Relates to nonnative animals; directs Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWCC), in consultation with Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), to establish pilot program for eradication of specific species; requires Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWCC) to enter into specified contracts and to submit report to Governor and Legislature; provides appropriation.
Status:  In House. Read second time. Read third time. Passed House. To Senate. To Senate Committee on Environmental Preservation and Conservation. Referred to Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Environment and Natural Resources. Referred to Senate Committee on Appropriations on April 26
 
Introduced:  03/07/2017
Sponsor:  Representative Kristin Diane Jacobs
Issue Brief:  Marine Protected Areas
Summary:  Relates to coral reefs establishes Southeast State Coral Reef Ecosystem Protection Area; requires Coral Reef Conservation Program, in coordination with Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWCC), to develop specified comprehensive management plan for area.
Status:  In House. Read second time. Read third time. Passed House. To Senate. To Senate Committee on Environmental Preservation and Conservation. Referred to Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Environment and Natural Resources. Referred to Senate Committee on Appropriations on April 26
 
Introduced:  04/24/2017
Sponsor:  House Government Accountability Committee
Issue Brief:  Conservation Funding
Summary:  Relates to Florida Forever Program; revises distribution of proceeds from Florida Forever Program Trust Fund; eliminates and consolidates funding for certain land acquisition and management programs.
Status:  In House. Placed on Calendar. Placed on Special Order Calendar for April 28  

Introduced:  03/07/2017
Sponsor:  Senator Linda Stewart
Issue Brief:  General
Summary:  Relates to State black bears; creates the State Black Bear Habitat Restoration Act; requires the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, and the Department of Environmental Protection to coordinate certain duties and responsibilities to protect State black bears and to preserve their habitat.
Status:  To Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Environment and Natural Resources on April 21
 
Introduced:  02/08/2017
Sponsor: Representative Pat McElraft, Member, North Carolina Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief:  Interstate Wildlife Violators Compact
Summary:  Amends various environmental laws.
Status:  To Senate Committee on Rules and Operations of the Senate on April 25
 
Introduced:  02/15/2017
Sponsor: Representative Mike Clampitt
Issue Brief:  General
Summary:  Adopts Jackson County as the trout capital of the state of North Carolina.
Status:  To Senate Committee on Rules and Operations of the Senate on April 21
 
Introduced:  02/28/2017
Sponsor: Representative Brian Turner, Member, North Carolina Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief:  Enforcement
Summary:  Prohibits hunting from the right-of-ways of public roads in Buncombe County.
Status:  Passed House. To Senate on April 27
 
Introduced:  03/13/2017
Sponsor: Representative Larry Pittman, Member, North Carolina Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief:  General
Summary:  Imposes a duty to avoid wanton waste on persons taking wildlife under a depredation permit.
Status:  Re-referred to House Committee on Judiciary on April 24
 
Introduced:  03/20/2017
Sponsor:  Representative Graig Meyer
Issue Brief:  General
Summary:  Prohibits hunting on private property in Orange County while under the influence of an impairing substance.
Status:  From House Committee on Judiciary I: reported favorably. In House. Placed on calendar for immediate consideration. Read second and third time. Passed House. To Senate on April 26
 
Introduced:  03/22/2017
Sponsor:  Representative Mike Clampitt
Issue Brief:  General
Summary:  Designates Swain County as the official location for trout fishing in North Carolina.
Status:  To Senate Committee on Rules and Operations of the Senate on April 21
 
Introduced:  Filed on 04/03/2017
Sponsor: Representative Beverly Boswell, Member, North Carolina Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief:  General
Summary:  Ensures meaningful public participation in fisheries management by enhancing the role of public advisory committees.
Status:  From House Committee on Wildlife Resources: reported favorably, and re-referred to House Committee on Environment on April 24
 
Introduced:  04/05/2017
Sponsor: Representative Chris Millis, Member, North Carolina Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief:  Sunday Hunting
Summary:  Expands the use of firearms for hunting of wild animals and upland game birds on Sunday; allows hunting of migratory birds on Sunday.
Status:  To Senate Committee on Rules and Operations of the Senate on April 26
 
Introduced:  04/13/2017
Sponsor:  Representative Destin Hall
Issue Brief:  Substandard Kennels
Summary:  Clarifies staffing standards for boarding kennels offering dog day care services.
Status:  To Senate Committee on Rules and Operations of the Senate on April 26
 
Introduced:  04/21/2017
Sponsor: Representative Larry Yarborough, Member, North Carolina Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief:  Catch Shares, Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (MSA)
Summary:  Ensures the economic development of coastal North Carolina through the restoration and long-term conservation of the state's public, coastal fisheries resources.
Status:  To House Committee on Wildlife Resources on April 21

Introduced:  04/26/2017
Sponsor: Representative Jonathan Jordan, Member, North Carolina Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief:  Conservation Tax Incentives
Summary:  Reenacts and modifies the conservation tax credit.
Status:  To House Committee on Finance on April 26
 
Introduced:  03/15/2017
Sponsor: Senator Tom McInnis, Member, North Carolina Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief:  General
Summary:  Creates a coyote tagging and bounty program in Richmond County.
Status:  From Senate Committee on Rules and Operation of the Senate: reported favorably. In Senate and placed on supplemental calendar. Read second and third time. Passed Senate. To House on April 26
 
Introduced:  03/27/2017
Sponsor: Senator Bill Rabon, Member, North Carolina Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief:  Catch Shares
Summary:  Opposes the privatization of South Atlantic federal fishery resources through catch share management and efforts through exempted fishing permits or other means to conduct pilot catch share programs or studies.
Status:  Passed Senate on April 24
 
Introduced:  03/29/2017
Sponsor: Senator William Cook, Member, North Carolina Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief:  Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (MSA)
Summary:  Creates a program for the permitting of marine aquaculture activities; requires the division of marine fisheries of the Department of Environmental quality to request the issuance of federal rules to allow marine aquaculture in federal Waters off the coast of the state.
Status:  Withdrawn from Senate Committee on Rules and Operations of the Senate, and re-referred to Senate Committee on Finance on April 21
 
Introduced:  03/29/2017
Sponsor:  Senator Norman Sanderson
Issue Brief:  General
Summary:  Delays action of the marine fisheries commission in response to certain granted petitions for rule making until completion of the activities and final report of the collaborative shrimp trawl gear study and stakeholder process.
Status:  From Senate Committee on Rules and Operation of the Senate: reported favorably. In Senate and placed on supplemental calendar. Read second and third time. Passed Senate. To House on April 26
 
Introduced:  03/29/2017
Sponsor:  Senator Norman Sanderson
Issue Brief:  Invasive Species, General
Summary:  Amends certain environmental and natural resources laws.
Status:  To House Committee on Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House on April 26
 
Introduced:  02/06/2017
Sponsor: Representative Jay Reedy, Co-Chair, Tennessee Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief:  Conservation Funding
Summary:  Relates to licenses; allows the wildlife resources agency to be reimbursed for lost revenue resulting from the issuance of free or partially discounted combination hunting and fishing licenses to persons on or after a specified date.
Status:  Placed on Regular Calendar on April 27

Introduced: 02/06/2017
Sponsor: Senator Mike Bell, Co-Chair, Tennessee Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief:  Conservation Funding
Summary:  Relates to licenses; allows the wildlife resources agency to be reimbursed for lost revenue resulting from the issuance of free or partially discounted combination hunting and fishing licenses to persons on or after a specified date.
Status: In House. Read second time.  Held on desk on April 24
 
Introduced:  02/08/2017
Sponsor: Senator Mark R. Maynard, Co-Chair, West Virginia Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief:  General License
Summary:  Provides for Department of Natural Resources rule relating to point system for revocation of hunting; provides for repeal.
Status:  Signed by Governor on April 25
 
Introduced:  02/17/2017
Sponsor: Senator Mark R. Maynard, Co-Chair, West Virginia Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief:  Sunday Hunting
Summary:  Relates to hunting; repeals limitations on trappers on Sundays; eliminates local option election regarding hunting on Sunday on private land; permits hunting on Sunday on private land; clarifies hunting on Sunday on public lands is unlawful.
Status:  Signed by Governor on April 24


MIDWESTMIDWESTERN STATES


Introduced: 02/06/2017
Sponsor: Representative Brandon Phelps, President NASC Executive Council, Co-Chair, Illinois Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief: Airguns/ Airbows
Summary: Amends the Wildlife Code; provides that a person may take deer with a .45 caliber or larger air-powered gun; defines air-powered gun as any implement, designed as a gun that will expel a bb or pellet by spring, gas, or air charged from an external high compression power source.
Status: In House. Held on Calendar Order Second Reading on April 26

Introduced: 02/09/2017
Sponsor: Representative Avery Bourne
Issue Brief: Licenses (General)
Summary: Amends the Wildlife Code; defines hunting license an an electronic or physical license authorizing the person to take a certain type of animal during a specified period of time.
Status: To Senate Committee on Agriculture on April 25

Introduced: 02/07/2017
Sponsor: Senator Napoleon Harris
Issue Brief: Catch Shares
Summary: Amends the Fish and Aquatic Life Code; provides that all trout, including lake trout, salmon, and lake whitefish may not be taken by commercial fishing devices, including gill or pound nets; provides that any incidental catch of trout, including lake trout, salmon, and lake whitefish taken in legal sized gill or pound nets must be returned immediately to the water; provides that the methods of taking are subject to modification by administrative rule based upon lake wide scientific assessment data.
Status: In Senate. Placed on Calendar Order Third Reading on April 26
 
Introduced: 02/07/2017
Sponsor: Senator Napoleon Harris
Issue Brief: Catch Shares
Summary: Amends the Fish and Aquatic Life Code; provides that the Department of Natural Resources may issue a maximum of 5 commercial fishing licenses for taking from the Waters of Lake Michigan yellow perch, bloater chub, and other commercial fish species designated by Department rule.
Status: In Senate. Placed on Calendar Order Third Reading on April 26

Introduced: 02/09/2017
Sponsor: Senator Jill Tracy
Issue Brief: Licenses (General)
Summary: Amends the Wildlife Code; defined hunting license as an electronic or physical license authorizing the person to take a certain type of animal during a specified period of time.
Status: Passed Senate, to House Committee on Rules on April 26
 
Introduced: 02/09/2017
Sponsor: Senator Neil Anderson, Member, Illinois Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief: Crossbows
Summary: Amends the Wildlife Code; provides that any person may use a crossbow to take coyotes during any coyote season.
Status: Passed Senate, to House on April 26
 
Introduced: 02/09/2017
Sponsor: Senator Neil Anderson, Member, Illinois Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief: Crossbows
Summary: Amends the Wildlife Code; repeals provision that it is unlawful to use any crossbow for the purpose of taking any wild birds or mammals except as provided in the Code; repeals Sections concerning the use of crossbows.
Status: In Senate. Placed on Calendar Order Third Reading on April 26

Introduced: 02/09/2017
Sponsor: Senator Neil Anderson, Member, Illinois Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief: Licenses (General), General
Summary: Amends the Wildlife Code; provides that except as provided in the Code, it is unlawful to possess the green hides of fur bearing mammals without a valid hunting or trapping license; provides that the annual fee for each resident fur buyer's permit shall be a specified sum; provides that all fur buyers and non-resident auction participants shall maintain records of the receipt, collection, purchase, and sale of green hides of fur-bearing mammals.
Status: Passed Senate, to House on April 26

Introduced: 01/05/2017
Sponsor: Representative Woody Burton
Issue Brief: General
Summary: Relates to plastic coated ammunition; defines armor piercing ammunition, and prohibits certain persons from possessing, manufacturing, selling, or delivering armor piercing ammunition; repeals a superseded provision concerning armor piercing handgun ammunition.
Status: Signed by Governor Eric Holcomb, Member, Governors Sportsmen's Caucus on April 24

Introduced: 01/17/2017
Sponsor: Representative Sean Eberhart, Co-Chair, Indiana Legislative Sportsmen's Forum
Issue Brief: Licenses (General), Recruitment, Retention, and Reactivation
Summary: Relates to natural resources; adds certain structures that are eligible for institutional road fund money on department of natural resources properties; provides that certain fees concerning fish and wildlife, entomology and plants, water resources, lakes and reservoirs, dams, flood control, mineral extraction, channels, and well drillers and pump installers are considered to be minimum fees; allows the natural resources commission to set certain license and permit fees above the specific minimum fee.
Status: To Governor on April 24

Introduced: 01/03/2017
Sponsor: Senator Jim Tomes, Co-Chair, Indiana Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief: Guns (General)
Summary: Relates to a member of the general assembly who possesses a valid Indiana license to carry a handgun and is otherwise permitted to possess a handgun has the right to carry a handgun within the state capitol building and on the property of the state capitol complex; states that a person may not adopt or enforce an ordinance that prohibits an employee of the person, including a contract employee from possessing a firearm or ammunition that is locked in the trunk of the employee's vehicle.
Status: Signed by Governor Eric Holcomb, Member, Governors Sportsmen's Caucus on April 26
 
Introduced: 04/10/2017
Sponsor: Senator Barrow Peacock
Issue Brief: Outdoor Sporting Goods Tax Holiday
Summary: Provides for items eligible for the 2nd Amendment Sale Tax Holiday.
Status: To House Committee on Ways and Means on April 24
 
Introduced: 04/10/2017
Sponsor: Senator Eddie Lambert, Member, Louisiana Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief: General
Summary: Allows the use of gill nets for taking of shad as bait fish with certain limitations.
Status: Passed Senate. To House on April 26
 
Introduced : 04/10/2017
Sponsor: Senator Bret Allain, Member, Louisiana Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief: Angling Access
Summary: Provides that the owner of an enclosed estate is bound to compensate his neighbor for acquiring a right and servitude of passage of a waterway and must indemnify his neighbor for the damage he may occasion.
Status: Ordered Engrossed on April 26
 
Introduced: 04/10/2017
Sponsor: Senator Bret Allain, Member, Louisiana Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief: American System of Conservation Funding
Summary: Provides for the deposit of certain license revenue and donations generated by the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries into funds in the state treasury.
Status: From Senate Committee on Judiciary A: Reported with amendment on April 25
 
Introduced:  0 4/19/2017
Sponsor: Representative Gary Howell, Member, Michigan Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief: General
Summary:  Removes cap on acreage in northern Michigan and approves strategic plan.
Status: To House Committee on Natural Resources on April 19
 
Introduced:  0 4/19/2017
Sponsor: Senator Tom Casperson, Member, Michigan Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief: General
Summary:  Suspends caps on DNR land purchases if payments in lieu of taxes have not been made and revises DNR land management, acquisition and disposal requirements.
Status: To Senate Committee on Natural Resources on April 19
 
Introduced:  0 2/01/2017
Sponsor:  Representative Bob Gunther
Issue Brief: Budget Bill
Summary:  Relates to state government; appropriates money from outdoor heritage fund, clean water fund, parks and trails fund, and arts and cultural heritage fund; provides for riparian protection aid; modifies requirements for expending money from legacy funds; modifies and extends prior appropriations; requires reports; relates to establishing a dedicated funding website.
Status: To Conference Committee on April 24

Introduced: 01/17/2017
Sponsor: Senator Michael Groene
Issue Brief: General
Summary: Provide for possession of archery equipment and knives for recreational purposes.
Status: Placed on Final Reading on April 21

Introduced: 01/18/2017
Sponsor: Senator Paul Schumacher, Member, Nebraska Legislative Sportsmen's Forum
Issue Brief: Knife Preemption
Summary: Defines the term knife for certain provisions of the criminal code.
Status: From Select File. Do Pass. Advanced to Enrollment and Review for Engrossment on April 26

Introduced: 01/18/2017
Sponsor: Natural Resources Committee
Issue Brief: Interstate Wildlife Violators Compact
Summary: Adopted the Interstate Wildlife Violator Compact; changes the penalties and fines for hunting elk and mountain sheep out of season; increases fines for unlawfully hunting, trapping, or possessing certain game and nongame birds and for shooting wildlife from a highway or roadway; increases revocation and suspension periods for hunting, fishing, and fur harvesting permits; increases the penalty for hunting, fishing, or fur harvesting on a revoked or suspended permit.
Status: To Governor on April 24

Introduced: 01/18/2017
Sponsor: Senator Curt Friesen, Co-Chair, Nebraska Legislative Sportsmen's Forum
Issue Brief: General
Summary: Changes provisions related to mowing of weeds.
Status: Placed on Select File as amended on April 24

Introduced: 01/10/2017
Sponsor: Representative Dan Flynn, Member, Texas Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief: Seniors, Veterans, and Active Duty Military, Hunting and Angling Privileges
Summary: Relates to a fee waiver for a combination resident hunting and fishing license for certain military personnel.
Status: No action taken in committee on April 25
 
Introduced: 0 1/10/2017
Sponsor: Representative Ryan Guillen, Member, Texas Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief: General
Summary: Relates to sound-producing devices on vessels.
Status: Committee report sent to calendars on April 24
 
Introduced: 02/14/2017
Sponsor: Representative Poncho Nevarez
Issue Brief: State Fish and Wildlife Management Authority
Summary: Relates to a documented member of the Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of the state hunting certain deer.
Status : Committee report sent to calendars on April 21
 
Introduced: 03/3/2017
Sponsor: Representative Chris Paddie
Issue Brief: High Fence, Chronic Wasting Disease
Summary: Relates to an authorization to trap, transport, and transplant certain white-tailed deer between certain sites.
Status: Left pending in committee on April 18
 
Introduced: 0 3/3/2017
Sponsor: Representative Chris Paddie
Issue Brief: High Fence, Chronic Wasting Disease
Summary: Relates to the identification of breeder deer by use of microchip implants
Status : Committee report sent to calendars on April 21
 
Introduced: 03/06/2017
Sponsor: Representative Lance Gooden
Issue Brief: High Fence
Summary: Relates to creating an offense for the administration of illegal drugs to breeder deer.
Status: Left pending in committee on April 18
 
Introduced: 03/07/2017
Sponsor: Representative Drew Springer
Issue Brief: General
Summary: Relates to requiring the Parks and Wildlife Department to issue permits for the management of the wild mule deer population; requires an occupational permit.
Status: Left pending in committee on April 18
 
Introduced: 03/08/2017
Sponsor: Representative Lynn Stucky
Issue Brief: Feral Hogs
Summary: Relates to the study and approval of lethal pesticides for feral hog control.
Status: To Senate Committee on Agriculture, Water, and Rural Affairs on April 24
 
Introduced: 03/09/2017
Sponsor: Representative Mark Keough
Issue Brief: Feral Hogs
Summary: Relates to the taking of certain feral hogs and coyotes using a hot air balloon.
Status: Left pending in committee on April 18
 
Introduces: 03/09/2017
Sponsor: Representative Larry Phillips
Issue Brief: High Fence
Summary: Relates to allowing a deer breeder to transfer and sell for processing as venison certain breeder deer.
Status : Committee report sent to calendars on April 21
 
Introduced: 03/09/2017
Sponsor: Representative Dennis Bonnen
Issue Brief: Gulf of Mexico Red Snapper Management 
Summary: Encourages Congress to pass legislation allowing the state to manage the Gulf of Mexico red snapper fishery out to 200 nautical Miles.
Status: Placed on Resolutions Calendar on May 2
 
Introduced: 0 1/11/2017
Sponsor: Senator Donald Huffines
Issue Brief: Firearms Preemption, Knife Preemption
Summary: Relates to the regulation or taxation of firearms, air guns, knives, or ammunition by a municipality or county.
Status: Scheduled for public hearing on April 27
 
Introduced: 02/02/2017
Sponsor: Senator Charles Perry
Issue Brief: General
Summary: Relates to a fee for participation in the Managed Lands Deer Program of the Parks and Wildlife Department.
Status: Passed Senate. To House on April 25
 
Introduced: 02/14/2017
Sponsor: Senator Carlos Uresti
Issue Brief: State Fish and Wildlife Management Authority
Summary: Relates to a documented member of the Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of the state hunting certain deer.
Status: Left pending in committee on April 24
 
Introduced: 03/01/17
Sponsor: Representative Joel Kleefisch, Co-Chair, Wisconsin Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief: General
Summary: Relates to unattended decoys left in water.
Status: In Assembly. Amendment offered on April 25


WESTWESTERN STATES  


Introduced : 02/15/2017
Sponsor: House Rules Committee
Issue Brief : General
Summary : Relates to the Izembek State Game Refuge, Cape Newenham State Game Refuge, Palmer Hay Flats State Game Refuge, Port Moller Critical Habitat Area, Egegik Critical Habitat Area, Pilot Point Critical Habitat Area, Fox River Flats Critical Habitat Area, Kachemak Bay Critical Habitat Area, and Dude Creek Critical Habitat Area.
Status : Placed on calendar by House Rules Committee on April 26

Introduced:  01/20/2017
Sponsor:  Senator Gail Griffin, Member, Chair, Arizona Legislators for Wildlife
Issue Briefs: General, Apprentice Hunting License,   Enforcement
Summary:  Urges the United States Congress to respect the historic and current use of Arizona's recreational areas by sportsmen and sportswomen, support the time-honored traditions of hunting and angling, and respect the administration of wildlife conservation through the sound science delivered by the Game and Fish Department and science-based policies developed by the Commission.
Status: Adopted on April 26
 
Introduced:  01/26/2017
Sponsor:  Senator Gail Griffin, Member, Chair, Arizona Legislators for Wildlife
Issue Brief: General 
Summary:  Relates to urging delisting of gray wolf.
Status:  Passed House on April 26

Introduced:  02/13/2017
Sponsor: Assembly Member Jim Frazier, Co-Chair, California Outdoor Sporting Caucus
Issue Brief: General
Summary:  Deletes the established fee for a resident elk tag. Sets the fee at the average price of the fees required for resident elk tags issued by specified states, as determined annually by the Department of Fish and Wildlife.
Status:  In Assembly. Read second time and amended. Re-referred to Committee on Appropriations on April 24

Introduced:  02/16/2017
Sponsor:  Assembly Member Eduardo Garcia
Issue Brief: General
Summary:  Establishes the Office of Outdoor Recreation and Public Lands Enhancement in the Governor's Office of Business and Economic Development for specified purposes, including promoting active healthy lifestyles and improving the quality of life for all Californians, and would require the director of the Governor's Office of Business and Economic Development to administer the Office.
Status: In Assembly Committee on Appropriations: To suspense file on April 26
 
Introduced:  02/16/2017
Sponsor: Assembly Member James Gallagher, Member, California Outdoor Sporting Caucus
Issue Brief: Seniors, Veterans, and Active Duty Military, Hunting and Angling Privileges
Summary:  Requires a resident or a nonresident, 16 years of age or older, upon payment of the fee, to be issued a sport fishing license for the period of 12 consecutive months. Requires the department to reduce the fee required to obtain the specified licenses by 25% for a person who is a veteran of the Armed Forces of the United States, was honorably discharged, and is a resident of California.
Status:  In Assembly Committee on Appropriations: To suspense file on April 26

Introduced:  02/17/2017
Sponsor:  Assembly Member Kevin Kiley
Issue Brief: Firearm suppressors
Summary:  Makes the crime of possessing a silencer inapplicable to the sale to, purchase by, or possession by the Department of the California Highway Patrol, the Department of Fish and Wildlife, and the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, the possession by peace officers employed by those agencies, or the sale or other transfer in interstate or foreign commerce by registered dealers or manufacturers.
Status:  In Assembly. Read second time and amended. Rereferred to Committee on Public Safety on April 25

Introduced:  01/25/2017
Sponsor: Senator Tom Berryhill, Member, California Outdoor Sporting Caucus
Issue Brief: Licenses (General)
Summary:  Makes nonsubstantive changes to existing law which requires the Department of Fish and Wildlife and authorized license agents to issue sport fishing licenses that are valid for various periods of time upon payment of the fee applicable to the particular license.
Status:  From Senate Committee on Natural Resources and Water: Do pass as amended to Committee on Appropriations on April 25

Introduced:  02/06/2017
Sponsor:  Senator Anthony J. Portantino
Issue Brief: General
Summary:  Amends an existing law which prohibits a person from making more than one application to purchase a handgun within any a certain period. Makes the prohibition and a certain dealer delivery prohibition applicable to all types of firearms. Excepts from that prohibition the purchase of a firearm by a person who possesses a valid, unexpired hunting license, and the acquisition of a firearm at specified charity fundraising events.
Status: In Senate. Read second time and amended. Re-referred to Committee on Appropriations on April 24

Introduced:  04/05/2017
Sponsor:  Representatives Jim Wilson and Jeni Arndt, Co-Chairs, Colorado Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Briefs: General License; Invasive Species
Summary:  Concerns the parks and wildlife commission's authority to set certain charges assessed on people engaging in activities regulated by the division of parks and wildlife; sets certain hunting, fishing, parks, and recreation fees and fines, creating an aquatic nuisance species sticker and associated fee structure, and requiring reporting by the division of parks and wildlife on fee amounts and the use of division-managed lands by non-consumptive users.
Status:  Passed House on Second Reading on April 27
 
Introduced:  02/28/2017
Sponsor:  Senator Don Coram, Member, Colorado Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Briefs: General
Summary:  Concerns measures to conserve native species in Colorado; makes appropriations from the species conservation trust fund for purposes recommended by the department of natural resources.
Status:  Passed House Committee on Health, Insurance and Environment (9-1) on April 20

Introduced : 01/2/2017
Sponsor: Representative Jim Keane
Issue Brief : Access to Private Lands, Budget Bills
Summary : Reinstates funding authority for Habitat Montana program; makes other appropriations.
Status : Eligible for Governor's desk on April 25

Introduced : 01/2/2017
Sponsor: Representative Denley Loge
Issue Brief : Access to Private Lands
Summary : Increases the maximum payment a landowner who participates in the hunter management or hunting access enhancement programs may receive.
Status : Signed into law by Governor's Sportsmen's Caucus Co-Chair Governor Steve Bullock on April 20

Introduced : 01/19/2017
Sponsor: Representative Tom Jacobson, Member, Montana Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief : General
Summary : Revises outfitter assistant laws; revises rulemaking; revises definitions; provides that an emergency means an unforeseen combination of circumstances or the resulting state that calls for immediate action; provides that an assistant may perform that tasks of a guide when a guide's license cannot be readily attained prior to or during the service of a participant due to an emergency; provides that the person may not represent to the public that the person is an outfitter or guide.
Status : Signed into law by Governor's Sportsmen's Caucus Co-Chair Governor Steve Bullock on April 20

Introduced : 02/10/2017
Sponsor: Representative Kelly Flynn, Member, Montana Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief : Access to Private Lands
Summary : Creates Montana Wildlife Habitat Improvement Act; allows the use of federal funds to combat noxious weeds and restore wildlife habitat; establishes a wildlife habitat improvement advisory council; provides rulemaking authority.
Status : Eligible for Governor's desk on April 25
 
Introduced : 01/11/2017
Sponsor: Senator Keith Regier
Issue Brief : General
Summary : Prohibits the supplemental feeding of wild turkeys; relates to criminal and civil liability; relates to fish and wildlife.
Status : Eligible for Governor's desk on April 24
 
Introduced : 01/30/2017
Sponsor: Senator Mike Lang, Member, Montana Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief : General
Summary : Prohibits sale of fishing, hunting or trapping licenses for failure to pay child support and other support debt or support obligation; relates to family law; relates to fish and wildlife; relates to state revenue.
Status : Eligible for Governor's desk on April 24
 
Introduced : 01/31/2017
Sponsor: Senator Jill Cohenour, Co-Chair, Montana Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief : General
Summary : Prohibits the use or sale of deer or elk urine originating in a place with documented occurrences of chronic wasting disease; relates to fish and wildlife; relates to rule making.
Status : Eligible for Governor's desk on April 24
 
Introduced : 01/31/2017
Sponsor: Senator Jeff Welborn, Member, Montana Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief : Game Meat Donation Programs
Summary : Repeals the sunset on the hunters against hunger program; relates to fish and wildlife; relates to state revenue; relates to rule making.
Status : Eligible for Governor's desk on April 24
 
Introduced : 01/11/2017
Sponsor: Senator Jill Cohenour, Co-Chair, Montana Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief : Enforcement, General
Summary : Prohibits importing certain animal body parts from chronic wasting disease states; provides a penalty; relates to fish and wildlife; relates to state revenue; relates to rule making.
Status : Returned from enrolling on April 21
 
Introduced : 02/7/2017
Sponsor: Senator Mark Blasdel, Member, Montana Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief : Apprentice Hunting Programs
Summary : Allows adults to participate in Montana's apprentice hunting program.
Status : Eligible for Governor's desk on April 24
 
Introduced : 03/21/2017
Sponsor: Senator Chas Vincent, Member, Montana Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief : Invasive Species
Summary : Revises laws related to aquatic invasive species; provides revenue sources to prevent and control aquatic invasive species; establishes the aquatic invasive species prevention pass; establishes a hydroelectric facility fee; establishes a fee for hydroelectric-dependent utilities; establishes a bottled water cap deposit for invasive species prevention; defines hydroelectric facility; extends rulemaking authority; revises the invasive species trust fund.
Status : Eligible for Governor's desk on April 25
 
Introduced: 0 2/06/2017
Sponsor:  Assembly Member Mike Sprinkle, Member, Nevada Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief: General
Summary:  Revises provisions governing the management of wildlife.
Status:  Passed Assembly. To Senate Committee on Natural Resources on April 26

Introduced:  0 1/24/2017
Sponsor: Senator Mo Denis, Co-Chair, Nevada Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief: Wildlife Councils for Public Education
Summary:  Creates the Nevada Wildlife Public Education Council.
Status: Ordered engrossed on April 24

Introduced: 0 3/20/2017
Sponsor:  Senator David Parks
Issue Brief: Animal Traps
Summary:  Revises provisions governing the trapping or taking of certain animals.
Status:  To Assembly Committee on Natural Resources, Agriculture, and Mining on April 26

Introduced : 02/1/2017
Sponsor: Office of Governor Kate Brown
Issue Brief : General
Summary : Requires boat operators to drain all standing or captured water before leaving water access site or riparian zone; provides exceptions; punishes by maximum fine of $250; clarifies that requirement to obtain aquatic invasive species prevention permit applies to persons 14 years of age or older if person is operating non-motorized boat; authorizes State Marine Board to combine aquatic invasive species prevention permit with other documents that board issues.
Status : House 2nd reading held on April 24
 
Introduced : 02/1/2017
Sponsor: Representative Brad Witt, Co-Chair, Oregon Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief : Apprentice Hunting Program
Summary : Extends age range of youth eligible to participate in youth hunter mentoring program to persons between nine and 16 years of age.
Status : Work session scheduled in Senate Environment and Natural Resources Committee for May 3
 
Introduced : 02/9/2017
Sponsor: Representative Ken Helm, Member, Oregon Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief : General
Summary : Permanently prohibits outfitter and guide who is convicted of violation of wildlife Laws for unlawfully taking wildlife with culpable mental state from applying for or obtaining licenses, tags and permits under wildlife Laws; permanently prohibits outfitter and guide who is convicted of violation of wildlife Laws for unlawfully taking wildlife with culpable mental state from registering as outfitter and guide; applies to violations of wildlife Laws committed on or after effective date of Act.
Status : Passed House on April 26
 
Introduced : 03/1/2017
Sponsor: Representative Mike McLane, Member, Oregon Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief : Enforcement
Summary : Requires State Fish and Wildlife Commission to implement program to encourage reporting of wildlife law violations.
Status : Passed House on April 24
 
Introduced : 01/18/2017
Sponsor: Representative Tom Dent, Member, Washington Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief : General
Summary : Commissions an elk management pilot project that focuses initially on the Colockum elk herd.
Status : Sent to Governor's desk on April 21
 
Introduced : 01/20/2017
Sponsor: Representative Brian Blake, Co-Chair, Washington Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief : Access to Private Lands
Summary : Concerns the development of cooperative agreements to expand recreational access on privately owned lands.
Status : Sent to Governor on April 21
 
Introduced : 01/27/2017
Sponsor: Senator Jamie Pedersen
Issue Brief : Guns
Summary : Relates to background checks for firearms sales or transfers, but only with respect to clarifying that the term firearm does not include flare guns and construction tools; clarifies that the term transfer does not include transfers between an entity and its employee or agents for lawful purposes in the ordinary course of business; defines licensed collector and curio or relic, expanding the family member exemption to include loans and parents-in-law and siblings-in-law; provides exemptions.
Status : Sent to Governor on April 21
        SCI SCI is a proud partner of CSF and
sponsors in part TRACKING THE CAPITOLS

 
 
Working with Congress, governors and state legislatures to protect and advance hunting, angling, recreational shooting, and trapping.
 
For more information on the Congressional Sportsmen's Foundation visit: 
www.SportsmensLink.org

For additional information on legislation included in this report please contact the appropriate representative: 
 
Midwestern States Senior Director Chris Horton, at 501.865.1475, or chris@sportsmenslink.org
Northeastern States Senior Director Brent Miller, at 202.543.6850 x 13, or brent@sportsmenslink.org
Southeastern States Director Bee Frederick, at 334.593.6988, or bee@sportsmenslink.org
Western States Director Senior Andy Treharne, at 303.789.7589, or andy@sportsmenslink.org


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