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. The bills noted in this email represent only a fraction of the legislation that CSF's States Program is monitoring on a day-to-day basis.

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.

Updates for the week of 

February 29, 2016
NORTHEASTERN STATES
 

Introduced: 02/24/2016
Sponsor: Joint Committee on Public Safety and Security
Issue Brief: Ammunition; Guns
Summary: Relates to the presentation of a carry permit; requires the holder of a permit for the carrying of any pistol or revolver to present such permit upon request of a law enforcement officer.
Status: Public hearing scheduled for March 3  
 
Introduced: 02/24/2016
Sponsor: Joint Committee on Public Safety and Security
Issue Brief: Guns
Summary: Concerns application requirements for a temporary state permit to carry a pistol or a revolver; creates uniform criteria for the issuance of a temporary state permit to carry a pistol or revolver.
Status: Public hearing scheduled for March 3  
 
Introduced: 02/24/2016
Sponsor: Joint Committee on Environment
Issue Brief: Trophy Importation Ban 
Summary: To prohibit the import, sale and trade of big-game hunting trophies from overseas. 
Status: Public hearing scheduled for March 4   
 
Introduced: 03/01/2016
Sponsor: Representative Craig Hickman
Issue Brief: General  
Summary: This bill implements the recommendations of the Commission To Study the Public Reserved Lands Management Fund. The committee has not taken a position on the substance of the commission's plan or this bill and by reporting this bill out the committee is not suggesting and does not intend to suggest that it agrees or disagrees with any aspect of the commission's plan or this bill. The committee is reporting the bill out for the sole purpose of turning the commission's proposal into a printed bill that
Status: House refers to Joint Committee on Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry. House accepts Committee Report on March 1
 
Introduced: 01/13/2015
Sponsor: Representative Anthony O'Donnell, Member, Maryland Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief: General 
Summary: Relates to Calvert County and St. Mary's County; relates to archery hunting; relates to safety zone.
Status: From House Committee on Environment and Transportation: Reported favorably on February 29
 
Introduced: 01/28/2015
Sponsor: Representative Deborah Rey, Member, Maryland Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief: Guns
Summary: Specifies that a permit to carry a handgun issued to an individual in Delaware, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Washington, D.C., or West Virginia is valid in Maryland.
Status: In House Judiciary Committee on March 15 
 
Introduced: 02/12/2016
Sponsor: Delegate Anthony O'Donnell, Member, Maryland Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief: Apprentice Hunting License  
Summary: Establishes an apprentice hunting license that confers specified rights on a purchaser of the license; authorizes a person to obtain a license without having first been issued a certificate of competency in firearms and hunter safety; authorizes specified persons to hunt under a license only if accompanied and directly supervised by specified other persons; prohibits the renewal of a license; establishes specified fees for resident and nonresident apprentice hunting licenses.
Status: In House Committee on Environment and Transportation on March 9
 
Introduced: 02/12/2016
Sponsor: Delegate Neil Parrott
Issue Brief: Guns   
Summary: Provides an exemption under the sales and use tax for the sale of specified firearm safety devices including a firearm safe, firearm lock box, trigger and barrel lock, or any other item designed to enhance home firearm safety.
Status: In House Committee on Ways and Means on March 8 
 
Introduced: 02/24/2016
Sponsor: Delegate Johnny Mautz, Member, Maryland Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus 
Issue Brief: General; Sunday Hunting Restrictions
Summary: Authorizes an individual who holds a Deer Management Permit in Talbot County to use a shotgun or breech loading center fired rifle, approved by the Department of Natural Resources, to hunt deer throughout the year under specified circumstances; authorizes the Department to authorize an individual to hunt deer on Sundays in Talbot County under specified circumstances.
Status: To House Committee on Rules on and Executive Nominations on March 24
 
Introduced: 01/13/2016
Sponsor: Senator Robert Cassilly
Issue Brief: General
Summary: Relates to state designations; relates to state duck.
Status: In Senate Committee on Education, Health & Environmental Affairs on March 4

Introduced: 01/21/2016
Sponsor: Senator Justin Ready 
Issue Brief: Sunday Hunting Restrictions
Summary: Authorizes a person to hunt turkey on private property on Sundays during the spring turkey hunting season in Carroll County; makes the Act an emergency measure.
Status: From Senate Committee on Education, Health and Environmental Affairs: Reported favorably on February 29
 
Introduced: 01/21/2016
Sponsor: Senator Bryan Simonaire, Member, Maryland Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief: Seniors, Veterans, and Active Duty Military, Hunting and Angling Privileges   
Summary: Authorizes the Department of Natural Resources to issue specified complimentary hunting and fishing licenses to an out-of-state person who certifies that the person is a former prisoner of war, or a 100% service connected disabled American veteran, under specified circumstances; requires the Department to implement a program to provide specified discounted licenses to recipients of the Purple Heart Award.
Status: Reassigned to House Committee on Environment and Transportation on March 1  
 
Introduced: 01/22/2016
Sponsor: Senator Bryan Simonaire, Member, Maryland Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief: Seniors, Veterans, and Active Duty Military, Hunting and Angling Privileges   
Summary: Requires the Department of Natural Resources to submit an annual report to the General Assembly and the Department of Veterans Affairs on specified licenses issued by the Department of Natural Resources; authorizes the Department of Natural Resources annually to issue a complimentary Chesapeake Bay and Coastal Sport Fishing License to specified individuals.
Status: From Senate Committee on Education, Health and Environmental Affairs: Reported favorably on March 29   
 
Introduced: 01/29/2016
Sponsor: Senator Stephen Waugh, Member, Maryland Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus    
Issue Brief: Sunday Hunting Restrictions
Summary: Authorizes an individual who Holds a Deer Management Permit in Charles County and St. Mary's County to use a shotgun or breech loading center fired rifle approved by the Department of Natural Resources to hunt deer throughout the year, including all deer hunting seasons, in the locations and under the conditions set forth in the permit.
Status: To House Committee on Environment and Transportation on February 26  
 
Introduced: 02/24/2016
Sponsor: Senator Adelaide Eckerdt, Member, Maryland Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus    
Issue Brief: Sunday Hunting Restrictions
Summary: Authorizes an individual who Holds a Deer Management Permit in Talbot County to use a shotgun or breech loading center fired rifle, approved by the Department of Natural Resources, to hunt deer throughout the year under specified circumstances; authorizes the Department to authorize an individual to hunt deer on Sundays in Talbot County under specified circumstances.
Status: Hearing Scheduled for 1:00 PM on March 15   
 
Introduced: 04/15/2015
Sponsor: Senator Donald Humason, Member, Massachusetts Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief: Guns; Firearm Preemption  
Summary: Relates to constitutional rights.
Status: Hearing scheduled for March 8  
 
Introduced: 02/26/2016
Sponsor: Joint Committee on Revenue
Issue Brief: General   
Summary: Relates to the modernization of boat registration and marine vessels.
Status: To Senate Committee on Ways and Means on February 29    
 
Introduced: 01/08/2015
Sponsor: Representative John Burt, Member, New Hampshire Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief: Firearm Suppressors 
Summary: Repeals provisions which prohibit the use of silencing devices for taking wildlife and impose penalties therefor.
Status: Hearing scheduled for March 9   
 
Introduced: 01/08/2015
Sponsor: Representative Guy Comtois
Issue Brief: Guns
Summary: I: increases the length of time for which a license to carry a pistol or revolver is valid; II: allows a person to carry a loaded, concealed pistol or revolver without a license provided such person is not otherwise prohibited by law; III: repeals the requirement to obtain a license to carry a concealed pistol or revolver; 15-0798 04/09.
Status: Hearing scheduled for March 14
 
Introduced: 01/06/2016
Sponsor: Representative Mark Proulx, Member, New Hampshire Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus   
Issue Brief: Guns
Summary: Allows a person to carry a rifle or shotgun in a motor vehicle, OHRV, snowmobile, boat, aircraft, or other vehicle; 16-2212 04/05.
Status: From House Committee on Transportation: Majority reported ought to pass with amendment; Minority reported ought not to pass on March 2
 
Introduced: 01/06/2016
Sponsor: Representative J.R. Hoell
Issue Brief: Guns   
Summary: Removes the suitable person requirement for obtaining a concealed carry license; the bill also extends the term of the license by one year; 16-2437 04/09.
Status: From House Committee on Criminal Justice and Public Safety: Majority reported ought not to pass; Minority reported ought to pass on February 25       
 
Introduced: 01/06/2016
Sponsor: Senator Sam Cataldo
Issue Brief: Guns   
Summary: Amends the requirement that a person be suitable to be issued a concealed carry permit; 16-2746 04/10.
Status: Hearing scheduled for March 14        
 
Introduced: 02/04/2016
Sponsor: Assembly Member Gabriela Mosquera
Issue Brief: Ivory Ban   
Summary: Prohibits possession, transport, import, export, processing, sale, or shipment of parts and products of certain animal species threatened with extinction.
Status: In Assembly Committee on Environment and Solid Waste on March 3
 
Introduced: 02/08/2016
Sponsor: Assembly Member Raj Mukherji 
Issue Brief: Interstate Wildlife Violators Compact
Summary: Enters the state in the Interstate Wildlife Violator Compact.
Status: In Assembly Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources on March 3  
 
Introduced: 02/04/2015
Sponsor: Senator Raymond Lesniak  
Issue Brief: Ivory Ban
Summary: Prohibits possession, transport, import, export, processing, sale, or shipment of parts and products of certain animal species threatened with extinction.
Status: In Assembly Committee on Environment and Solid Waste on March 3
 
Introduced: 01/07/2016
Sponsor: Assembly Member Thomas Abinanti    
Issue Brief: Guns    
Summary: Amends the penal law and the criminal procedure law; establishes certain crimes relating to the criminal manufacture or possession of an undetectable firearm, rifle, or shotgun; provides definitions for major components of a firearm, rifle, or shotgun; relates to criminal possession of an undetectable firearm.
Status: From Assembly Committee on Codes on February 25
 
Introduced: 01/08/2015
Sponsor: Assembly Member Thomas Abinanti  
Issue Brief: Animals Traps
Summary: Amends the Environmental Conservation Law; relates to the regulation of live restraint cable devices to take wildlife; provides for the repeal of such provision upon the expiration thereof.
Status: Enacted clause stricken on February 25  
 
Introduced: 04/27/2015
Sponsor: Assembly Member Carrie Woerner 
Issue Brief: Enforcement
Summary: Amends the Environmental Conservation Law; relates to the illegal taking of deer.
Status: To Assembly Committee on Codes on February 25         
 
Introduced: 10/02/2015
Sponsor: Assembly Member Anthony Brindisi 
Issue Brief: Off Highway Vehicles (OHV)
Summary: Relates to the creation of an ATV trail fund.
Status: Amended in Assembly Committee on Tourism, Arts and Sports Development on March 1
 
Introduced: 02/01/2016
Sponsor: Assembly Member Matthew Titone, Member, New York Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus              
Issue Brief: General    
Summary: Amends legislative Bills Numbers A. 2756 and S. 3856, designating working dogs as the official state dog.
Status: To Governor on February 26
 
Introduced: 02/02/2016
Sponsor: Senator Catharine Young         
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: To Senate Committee on Finance on February 29 
 
Introduced: 02/12/2016
Sponsor: Representative Cale Keable
Issue Brief: General 
Summary: Relates to property; relates to trespassing and actions for possession; prohibits encroachment of open space land and allows for a civil action in superior court to remedy any encroachment.
Status: In House Committee on Judiciary: Committee recommends measure to be held for further study on March 2
 
Introduced: 01/07/2016
Sponsor: Representative Patricia Serpa  
Issue Brief: Dog Tethering
Summary: Would repeal certain exceptions to the "Care of Dogs Act" and would require those individuals under an order by an animal control officer to tether or confine dogs, training facilities, licensed hunters and sled dog owners to comply with the provisions of this chapter. This act would take effect upon passage.
Status: In House Committee on Health, Education and Welfare: Committee recommends measure to be held for further study on February 25
 
Introduced: 02/24/2016
Sponsor: Representative Arthur Handy
Issue Brief: Ivory Ban
Summary: Would prohibit any person from importing, selling, offering for sale, purchasing, bartering, or possessing with intent to sell, any ivory, ivory product, rhinoceros horn, or rhinoceros horn product, with limited exceptions. Monetary fines have been established to be paid by violators. This act would take effect on January 1, 2017.
Status: Scheduled for hearing and/ or consideration on March 8 
 
Introduced: 02/24/2016
Sponsor: Representative Blake Filippi
Issue Brief: Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act; Marine Protected Areas (MPA's)
Summary: (Resolution) Requests respectfully the United States Congress to oppose passage of the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) Clarification Act.
Status: Scheduled for hearing and/or consideration on March 3  
 
Introduced: 01/27/2016
Sponsor: Senator Paul Fogarty
Issue Brief: General
Summary: Would provide for the creation of a new position in the fish and wildlife division of the department of environmental management, and would place oversight of freshwater lakes, streams, and ponds, in the fish and wildlife division. This act would take effect upon passage.
Status: Committee recommended measure be held for further study on March 2 

Introduced: 01/27/2016
Sponsor: Senator Nicolas Kettle
Issue Brief: Freshwater Angling Access; Enforcement
Summary: Would permit fishing in trout waters at any time of year without seasonal restriction. This act would take effect upon passage.
Status: Committee meeting postponed on March 2  
 
Introduced: 02/25/2016
Sponsor: Senator Joshua Miller
Issue Brief: Guns
Summary: Would make it unlawful to carry a rifle or shotgun in a vehicle or on one's person, visible or concealed, except at one's residence, place of business or land, and would further create penalties for the unlawful conveyance of a firearm to a person under the age of eighteen (18) that is used in a violent crime of violence. This act would take effect upon passage.
Status: To Senate Committee on Judiciary on February 25
 
Introduced: 02/26/2016
Sponsor: House Natural Resources and Energy Committee
Issue Brief: General
Summary: Relates to timber harvesting.
Status: Introduced on February 26 


SOUTHEASTERN STATES


Introduced: 02/02/2016
Sponsor: Representative Alan Boothe  
Issue Brief: White-tailed Deer Management - Hunting as a preferred Management Tool; General
Summary: Relates to hunting; allows the taking of whitetail deer or feral swine by means of bait; requires that bait be contained.
Status: To Senate Committee on Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry on March 1

Introduced: 03/01/2016
Sponsor: Representative David Sessions
Issue Brief: General; Marine Spatial Plan
Summary: Supports the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in efforts to establish living shorelines; urges the corps to issue a new nationwide permit for living shorelines.
Status: Passed House. To Senate. To Senate Committee on Rules on March 3 
 
Introduced: 01/12/2016
Sponsor: Representative Katie Edwards
Issue Brief: Freshwater Angling Access
Summary: Relates to dredge and fill activities; revises acreage of wetlands and surface waters subject to impact by dredge and fill activities under state programmatic general permits; provides that seeking to use such permits consents to specified federal wetland jurisdiction criteria.
Status: In House. Pending review of Committee Substitute under Rule 7.19(c) on February 26

Introduced: 01/12/2016
Sponsor: Representative Matt Caldwell, Member, Florida Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus 
Issue Brief: Freshwater Angling Access; Enforcement
Summary: Relates to recreational boating zones; prohibits overnight anchoring or mooring of vessels in specified recreational boating zones.
Status: In House. Placed on Third Reading on March 3 
 
Introduced: 01/12/2016
Sponsor: Senator Miguel Diaz  
Issue Brief: Freshwater Angling Access   
Summary: Relates to dredge and fill activities; revises the acreage of wetlands and other surface waters subject to impact by dredge and fill activities under a state programmatic general permit; provides that seeking to use such a permit consents to specified federal wetland jurisdiction criteria; authorizes the Department of Environmental Protection to delegate federal permitting programs for the discharge of such material; deletes certain conditions limiting when the Department may assume federal permits.
Status: Passed Senate. To House. In House. In Messages on March 2
 
Introduced: 01/12/2016
Sponsor: Senator Wilton Simpson  
Issue Brief: Freshwater Angling Access
Summary: Relates to anchoring limitation areas; prohibits overnight anchoring or mooring of vessels in specified anchoring limitation areas; provides exceptions; provides for the removal and impoundment of vessels under certain circumstances; provides penalties; provides for violations to be enforced by the issuance of a uniform boating citation; provides penalties.
Status: In Senate. Placed on Special Order Calendar on March 4   
 
Introduced: 02/29/2016
Sponsor: Representative Kevin Sinnette   
Issue Brief: General
Summary: Establishes a disabled hunter postseason elk hunt; defines elk zone and make eligible only those who are able to qualify for a disabled hunter license; sets the number of permits for the hunt at not more than ten percent of the total number of permits allotted for the regular quota hunt; requires hunters drawn for the disabled hunter post season elk hunt to comply with all hunting laws, both state and federal; requires the department to attempt to ensure disability access to areas in the elk zone.
Status: To House Committee on Natural Resources and Environment on March 1  
 
Introduced: 02/08/2016
Sponsor: Representative Scott Bounds, Co-Chair, Mississippi Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief: Outdoor Sporting Goods Tax Holiday  
Summary: Revises the time for the sales tax exemption for retail sales of firearms, ammunition and hunting supplies from the first weekend in September to the last weekend in August.
Status: Transmitted to Senate on March 2
 
Introduced: 02/08/2016
Sponsor: Representative Jason White, Member, Mississippi Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief: Exotic Invasive Species; General
Summary: Extends the repealer on the provision of law that prohibits the importation and transportation of any live feral hog, wild swine or Russian boar, and provides that such wild hogs may be caught, trapped or transported by permit holders.
Status: Transmitted to Senate on March 2
 
Introduced: 02/10/2016
Sponsor: Representative Scott Bounds, Co-Chair, Mississippi Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief: License (General)   
Summary: Revises the fees required for hunting and fishing licenses for related purposes.
Status: Passed House. To Senate on March 1
 
Introduced: 02/10/2016
Sponsor: Representative Scott Bounds, Co-Chair, Mississippi Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus  
Issue Brief: General; Exotic Invasive Species 
Summary: Removes the permit for the transport of wild hogs; provides that it shall be unlawful for any person to transport wild hogs on public roads, to prohibit a person from releasing a wild hog at a location different from the location where the wild hog was caught or trapped, and to remove the permit for the transport of wild hogs; for purposes of possible amendments for related purposes.
Status: Died in Committee on March 2
 
Introduced: 02/10/2016
Sponsor: Representative Scott Bounds, Co-Chair, Mississippi Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief: General 
Summary: Requires the Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks to develop a program for tagging white-tailed deer and wild turkey for related purposes.
Status: Died in Committee on March 1
 
Introduced: 02/10/2016
Sponsor: Representative Herb Frierson, Member, National Assembly of Sportsmen's Caucuses (NASC) Executive Council
Issue Brief: Knife Preemption
Summary: Provides that no county, municipality or political subdivision thereof shall adopt any ordinance, rule or regulation restricting the possession, sale, purchase, transfer, licensing, manufacture, ownership or use of a knife, knife making components or knives in a manner more restrictive than provided by law. 
Status: Passed House. To Senate on March 2
 
Introduced: 02/11/2016
Sponsor: Representative Scott DeLano, Member, Mississippi Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus 
Issue Brief: General 
Summary: Creates a special fund in the State Treasury to be designated as the Gulf Coast Restoration Fund; provides that monies in the special fund shall be used by the Department of Marine Resources based upon the recommendation of the Board of trustees of the Gulf Coast Restoration Fund to provide assistance to entities for the purpose of promoting ecological habitat, promoting economic development and overall community benefit.
Status: Passed House. To Senate on March 2
 
Introduced: 02/12/2016
Sponsor: Representative Joseph Seymour, Member, Mississippi Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus  
Issue Brief: Enforcement; General
Summary: Clarifies the prohibition against hunting on any street, public road, public highway, levee, or railroad.
Status: Passed Senate. To House on March 2
 
Introduced: 02/11/2016
Sponsor: Representative Bill Hixon, Member, South Carolina Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus  
Issue Brief: White-tailed Deer Management: Hunting as a preferred Management Tool; General
Summary: Relates to the issuance of annual individual anterless deer tags; revises the procedure whereby the Department of Natural Resources issues and charges a person for the privilege of hunting and taking deer in this state; relates to the collection and disposition of revenues generated from the sale of hunting and fishing licenses, permits, and tags; substitutes the term antlerless deer quota permit for the term deer quota program permit.
Status: Amended on House Floor on March 2
 
Introduced: 01/12/2016
Sponsor: Senator Chip Campsen, Member, South Carolina Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus 
Issue Brief: General
Summary: Relates to hunting and fishing licenses; provides that a person must have immediate access and authorization to utilize deer quota tags to hunt on property with a deer quota program permit; provides for the deer quota program and requirements for application; provides that a person must possess a set of individual deer tags to hunt on property without a deer quota program permit; sets the deer tag fees for in and out-of-state residents; relates to bag limits and authority over game zones.
Status: From House Committee on Agriculture, Natural Resources and Environmental Affairs: Reported favorable with amendment on February 25  
 
Introduced: 02/10/2016
Sponsor: Senator Greg Hembree
Issue Brief: Fresh Water Angling Access
Summary: Permits maintenance dredging by individuals of certain existing navigational canal community developments authorized by a permit from the United States army corps of engineers pursuant to the federal clean water act, as amended, or the Rivers and harbors act.
Status: Amended on House floor on March 2  
 
Introduced: 02/24/2016
Sponsor: Senator Chip Campsen
Issue Brief: General
Summary: Relates to size limits for certain fish that may be lawfully taken, possessed, landed, or purchased; increases the size limit for flounder that may be lawfully taken, possessed, landed, or sold.
Status: To Senate Committee on Fish, Game and Forestry on February 24
 
Introduced: 01/19/2016
Sponsor: Senator Mark Green
Issue Brief: Exotic Invasive Species  
Summary: Relates to game and fish Laws; creates a nine-member task force to make recommendations for statutory changes to protect the state's wildlife and waterways against any detrimental effects of invasive Asian carp.
Status: To Senate Committee on Energy, Agriculture and Natural Resources on March 2
 
Introduced: 01/19/2016
Sponsor: Senator Steve Southerland, Member, Tennessee Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus  
Issue Brief: General   
Summary: Relates to Environmental Preservation; creates the forum on the state's great outdoors for the purpose of conducting a comprehensive review of the health and status of this state's natural resources and outdoor recreation needs and opportunities.
Status: To Senate Committee on Energy, Agriculture and Natural Resources with negative recommendation on February 24
 
Introduced: 01/13/2016
Sponsor: Delegate Barry Knight, Member, Virginia Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus  
Issue Brief: Enforcement
Summary: Relates to damaged duck blinds in Virginia Beach; requires a person who holds a duck blind license for a stationary blind located in the City of Virginia Beach to notify the Department of Game and Inland Fisheries when his blind has been abandoned, is in a state of disrepair, or does not meet the duck blind standards; requires placement of PVC pipe markers and reflective markers.
Status: Passed Senate. To House for Concurrence (39-0) on March 1   
 
Introduced: 01/13/2016
Sponsor: Delegate Michael Webert, Member, Virginia Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief: Guns
Summary: Relates to regulation of firearms by state entities; prohibits any state entity from adopting or enforcing any rule, regulation, policy, or administrative action governing the purchase, possession, transfer, ownership, carrying, storage, or transporting of firearms, ammunition, or components or combinations thereof unless expressly authorized by statute; invalidates any such rule, regulation, policy, or administrative action adopted by a state entity; relates to a law-enforcement officer.
Status: House concurred in Senate amendments on March 2
 
Introduced: 01/13/2016
Sponsor: Delegate Kaye Kory  
Issue Brief: Exotic Invasive Species
Summary: Relates to zebra mussels; relates to education program; requires the Director of the Department of Game and Inland Fisheries to establish a program of education in methods of preventing zebra mussels or other nonindigenous aquatic nuisance species from infesting Virginia waters; provides that the bill requires the program to include cleaning and draining guidelines, designated dry times, a standard boat inspection form, and public outreach.
Status: Eligible for Governor's desk on March 2
 
Introduced: 01/13/2016
Sponsor: Delegate Matt Fariss  
Issue Brief: General
Summary: Relates to hunting with a slingshot; allows the hunting of wild birds and wild animals, except deer, bear, elk, and turkey, with a slingshot unless shooting is expressly prohibited.
Status: Eligible for Governor's desk on March 2
 
Introduced: 01/14/2016
Sponsor: Delegate Michael Webert, Member, Virginia Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus  
Issue Brief: Concealed Carry Reciprocity  
Summary: Relates to recognition of out-of-state concealed handgun permits; provides that a holder of a concealed handgun permit issued by any state who is at least 21 years of age is authorized to carry a concealed handgun in Virginia; requires the Attorney General to enter into agreements for reciprocal recognition with other States that require an agreement to be in place before the state will recognize a Virginia concealed handgun permit as valid in the state; current law recognizes concealed handgun permits is.
Status: Signed by Governor. Act of Assembly (Chapter No. 47) on February 26
 
Introduced: 01/21/2016
Sponsor: Delegate R. Lee Ware
Issue Brief: Enforcement; Hunting with Dogs
Summary: Relates to trespass by hunters using dogs; punishes as a Class 3 misdemeanor the intentional release by a person of hunting dogs on the lands of another to hunt without the consent of the landowner; punishes a second or subsequent offense committed within three years as a Class 1 misdemeanor and provides for the revocation of the person's hunting license for a period of one year upon conviction.
Status: Eligible for Governor's desk on March 2
 
Introduced: 01/22/2016
Sponsor: Delegate Scott Lingamfelter, Co-Chair, Virginia Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief: NICS
Summary: Relates to firearms shows; relates to voluntary background checks; relates to penalties; requires the Department of State Police to be available to perform background checks for non-dealer sales at gun shows if requested by a party involved in a transaction; the promoter of the firearms shall furnish the Department of State Police sufficient facilities to perform the background checks.
Status: Signed by Governor. Acts of Assembly (Chapter No. 45) On February 26
 
Introduced: 01/13/2016
Sponsor: Senator Bill Carrico
Issue Brief: General
Summary: Relates to black vultures; relates to the control of black vultures; adds such creatures to the list of wildlife that pose a danger to agricultural animals; changes the name of the Virginia Cooperative Coyote Damage Control Program to the Virginia Cooperative Wildlife Damage Management Program.
Status: Signed by Governor. Acts of Assembly (Chapter No. 59) On February 29
 
Introduced: 01/13/2016
Sponsor: Senator Lynwood Lewis, Member, Virginia Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus   
Issue Brief: General
Summary: Relates to crab pots; relates to recreational gear license; relates to turtle excluder device; directs the Virginia Marine Resources Commission to require that turtle reduction devices be attached to each crab pot covered by a recreational gear license.
Status: Signed by Governor. Acts of Assembly (Chapter No. 136) On March 1
 
Introduced: 01/13/2016
Sponsor: Senator Creigh Deeds, Member, Virginia Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus  
Issue Brief: General
Summary: Relates to free fishing days; removes the prohibition against fishing without a license in waters stocked with trout by the Department of Game and Inland Fisheries or other public body on days designated by the Department as free fishing days.
Status: Signed by Governor. Acts of Assembly (Chapter No. 63) On March 1
 
Introduced: 01/13/2016
Sponsor: Delegate Ryan McDougle       
Issue Brief: State Fish and Wildlife Management Authority
Summary: Relates to the hunting of coyotes; relates to county or city ordinances; adds the hunting of coyotes to the list of firearm-hunting topics about which a county or city is authorized to adopt ordinances; provides that current law allows the governing body of a county or city to adopt ordinances prohibiting hunting with certain types of shotguns, permitting groundhog hunting under certain conditions, permitting hunting with muzzleloaders, and specifying permissible ammunition types.
Status: Signed by Governor. Acts of Assembly (Chapter No. 64) On March 1
 
Introduced: 01/13/2016
Sponsor: Senator Bryce Reeves
Issue Brief: Guns
Summary: Relates to recognition of out-of-state concealed handgun permits; provides that a holder of a concealed handgun permit issued by any state who is at least 21 years of age is authorized to carry a concealed handgun in Virginia; requires the Attorney General to enter into agreements for reciprocal recognition with other States that require an agreement to be in place before the state will recognize a Virginia concealed handgun permit as valid in the state.
Status: Signed by Governor. Acts of Assembly (Chapter No. 46) On March 1
 
Introduced: 01/21/2016
Sponsor: Senator John Edwards 
Issue Brief: Guns 
Summary: Relates to firearms shows; relates to voluntary background checks; requires the Department of State Police to be available at every firearms show held in the Commonwealth to make determinations regarding whether a prospective purchaser or transferee is prohibited from possessing a firearm; provides for certain fees; sets forth requirements of promoters.
Status: Signed by Governor. Acts of Assembly (Chapter No. 44) On March 1
 
Introduced: 01/15/2016
Sponsor: Senator Craig Blair
Issue Brief: Licenses (General)
Summary: Relates to hunting and fishing license; provides Class L resident five-day fishing license; defines Class L license as a resident fishing license and entitles the licensee to fish for all legal fish except trout and to take frogs in all counties of the state for five consecutive calendar dates chosen by the buyer and which will be specified on the license.
Status: To House Committee on Government Organization on March 1  
 
Introduced: 01/15/2016
Sponsor: Senator Robert Karnes
Issue Brief: General
Summary: Requests study of fiscal impact of relatives of landowner to hunt, trap and fish without obtaining license.
Status: To Senate Committee on Rules on February 25   


MIDWESTERN STATES


Introduced: 02/15/2016
Sponsor: House Judiciary Committee
Issue Brief: Firearm Suppressors
Summary: Relates to possessing and transferring firearm suppressors; provides penalties; includes effective date provisions.
Status: In Senate. File Amended No. S-5055 on March 2 
 
Introduced: 02/22/2016
Sponsor: House Natural Resources Committee
Issue Brief: Enforcement
Summary: Relates to the baiting of deer on public or private property and providing penalties.
Status: In House. Filed Amendments No. H-8033 on February 25   
 
Introduced: 01/28/2016
Sponsor: Representative John Cavaletto, Member, Illinois Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief: General
Summary: Amends the Wildlife Code; changes the name of the fee from Public Hunting Grounds for Pheasants to Public Hunting Grounds for Game Birds; provides that the Department of Natural Resources may permit hunters to take bobwhite quail, chukar partridge, and gray partridge on public hunting grounds; authorizes the Department to set the hunting season for game birds by administrative rule.
Status: In House. Placed on Short Debate Calendar second reading on March 2
 
Introduced: 05/31/2015
Sponsor: Senator Don Harmon
Issue Brief: Wolf in Sheeps Clothing/ Animal Rights Groups
Summary: Amends the Wildlife Code; prohibits the sale of bobcat pelts of bobcats taken; penalty for a violation of this provision is a Petty offense, as provided in the general penalty section of the Code.
Status: In Senate Committee on Commerce and Economic Development: Postponed in committee on March 3   
 
Introduced: 02/03/2016
Sponsor: Senator Neil Anderson
Issue Brief: Hunter Recruitment, Retention, Reactivation
Summary: Amends the Wildlife Code; provides that a resident youth 18 and under may apply to the Department of Natural Resources for a Youth Trapping License, which extends limited trapping privileges; provides that the Youth Trapping License shall be renewable and expire on the March 31 following the date of issuance; provides that possession of a Youth Trapping License shall serve in lieu of a valid trapping license, but does not exempt the licensee from compliance with the requirements of the Code.
Status: In Senate. Placed on Calendar Order Second Reading on March 3   

Introduced: 02/17/2016
Sponsor: Senator Ila Silverstein
Issue Brief: Off Highway Vehicles (OVH)
Summary: Amends the Recreational Trails of Act; provides that any person under the age of 18 who is operating an off-highway vehicle on public land, shall be trained and certified through a State-approved off-highway vehicle safety course; provides that the minimum age to operate an off-highway vehicle on public land shall be 14 years old, and that any person under the age of 16 is prohibited from operating an off-highway vehicle on public land without direct adult supervision.
Status: To Senate Committee on Transportation on March 2   
 
Introduced: 02/17/2016
Sponsor: Senator Ila Silverstein
Issue Brief: Wolf in Sheeps Clothing/ Animal Rights Groups
Summary: Amends the Wildlife Code; provides that it is unlawful for any person subject to the jurisdiction of this State to import animal trophies into, or export the trophy from, this State; takes any trophy within this State.
Status: To Senate Committee on Judiciary on March 2
 
Introduced: 02/17/2016
Sponsor: Senator Neil Anderson  
Issue Brief: General
Summary: Amends the Wildlife Code; changes the name of the fee from Public Hunting Grounds for Pheasants to Public Hunting Grounds for Game Birds; provides that the Department of Natural Resources may permit hunters to take bobwhite quail, chukar partridge, and gray partridge on public hunting grounds; authorizes the Department to set the hunting season for game birds by administrative rule between the dates of September 1st and March 31st, both inclusive.
Status: To Senate Committee on Agriculture on March 2  
 
Introduced: 01/11/2016
Sponsor: Representative Sean Eberhart, Co-Chair, Indiana Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus 
Issue Brief: General
Summary: Relates to natural resources; relates to the flood control program and revolving fund, forest and wildlands classifications, requirements for aft lights on boats, flotation devices, rail use tags for non-registered off-road vehicles and snowmobiles, taking of wild animals on historic site properties, habit restoration stamps, hunter orange requirements, airport trapping rights, ginseng for sale or export without a license, liens on past coal mining land and wastewater treatment system loans.
Status: Amended on Senate floor. Order engrossed on February 25
 
Introduced: 01/05/2016
Sponsor: Senator Mark Messmer, Member, Indiana Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus    
Issue Brief: High Fence  
Summary: Provides that the department of natural resources may not regulate certain privately owned captive bred wild animal hunting preserves; establishes licensing requirements, inspection requirements and fees; exempts licensed hunting preserves and cervidae livestock operations from certain licensing requirements; requires a transportation or cull tag be affixed to each animal taken on a hunting preserve; prohibits computer assisted remote hunting on hunting preserves.
Status: Eligible for Governor's desk on March 1
 
Introduced: 02/12/2016
Sponsor: House Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee
Issue Brief: Enforcement
Summary: Relates to prioritizing options for disposal of seized wildlife.
Status: Senate Hearing at 8:30 AM in Rm. 159-S on March 2 
 
Introduced: 01/22/2016
Sponsor: Representative Travis Couture-Lovelady, Member, Kansas Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief: Right to Hunt and Fish
Summary: Amends the bill of rights of the constitution of the state of Kansas by adding a new section thereto, relating to the public right to hunt, fish and trap wildlife.
Status: To Senate Committee on Federal and State Affairs on March 2
 
Introduced: 02/09/2016
Sponsor: Senate Ways and Means Committee
Issue Brief: Public Access to Private Lands; General
Summary: Authorizes the board of county commissioners of any county to regulate conservation easements on property located within the county.
Status: Senate Hearing at 8:30 AM in Rm. 159-S on March 2 
 
Introduced: 02/26/2016
Sponsor: Representative Stuart Bishop
Issue Brief: General  
Summary: Recreates the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries.
Status: To House Committee on Natural Resources and Environment on February 26   
 
Introduced: 02/26/2016
Sponsor: Representative Bodi White  
Issue Brief: General  
Summary: Relates to the requirements of hunters during open gun season; adds "blaze pink" as an alternative to the "hunter orange" requirements; provides for related matters.
Status: To House Committee on Natural Resources and Environment on February 26   
 
Introduced: 02/29/2016
Sponsor: Representative Major Thibaut, Member, Louisiana Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus  
Issue Brief: American System of Conservation Funding;General  
Summary: Provides for a feral hog management program at the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries.
Status: Pre-filed on February 29
 
Introduced: 02/24/2016
Sponsor: Senator Dan Claitor
Issue Brief: General  
Summary: Memorializes Congress to extend Louisiana's seaward boundary in the Gulf of Mexico to three marine leagues.
Status: Passed House on February 26  
 
Introduced: 01/19/2016
Sponsor: Senator Al Davis, Member, Nebraska Legislative Sportsmen's Forum   
Issue Brief: General  
Summary: Relates to the Niobrara Scenic River Act; requires legislative confirmation of certain appointments; changes provisions relating to support by the Game and Parks Commission.
Status: From Legislative Committee on Natural Resources: Placed on General File on March 1
 
Introduced: 03/01/2016
Sponsor: Representative Doug Green
Issue Brief: Fishing Tournaments; General 
Summary: Requires persons authorized under existing law to possess gill nets for specified purposes to obtain annual licenses and serial numbered tags for the gill nets; authorizes a holder of an aquaculture permit to possess and use a gill net in accordance with such a license and tag; specifies a criminal penalty applicable to a person who fails to properly possess a gill net; makes other changes governing the possession of nets, traps, or other devices for catching fish under the Hunting and Fishing Law.
Status: To House Committee on Rules and Reference on March 1   
 
Introduced: 02/02/2016
Sponsor: Representative Bobby Cleveland   
Issue Brief: Exotic Invasive Species
Summary: Relates to feral swine; relates to removal of feral swine; eliminates permit requirement to kill feral swine at night; authorizes the removal of feral swine under certain circumstances; authorizes the use of certain light devices except during deer season; requires the Department of Wildlife Conservation to develop certain registration process; requires information be submitted; provides time period for valid registration.
Status: From House Committee on Wildlife: Do pass as substituted on February 29
 
Introduced: 02/01/2016
Sponsor: Senator Anthony Sykes, Member, Oklahoma Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus    
Issue Brief: Exotic Invasive Species
Summary: Relates to the Feral Swine; relates to the Feral Swine Control Act; modifies authority; provides for recodification.
Status: To Senate Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development on February 2  
 
Introduced: 01/21/2016
Sponsor: Senator Jason Frerichs, Member, South Dakota Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief: General
Summary: Revises restrictions for the use of night-vision equipment for hunting under certain conditions; provides that a landowner or occupant and a specified number of guests accompanied by the landowner or occupant may use night vision equipment on a firearm using a cartridge with a specified bullet diameter, in the taking of jackrabbits, coyotes, beaver during its hunting season, foxes, raccoons, opossums, badgers, skunks, or rodents on the property.
Status: Passed House. To Senate for concurrence on March 2   
 
Introduced: 01/22/2016
Sponsor: Senator Jim White, Member, South Dakota Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus  
Issue Brief: Seniors, Veterans, and Active Duty Military, Hunting and Angling Privileges
Summary: Revises the provisions regarding the issuance of small game licenses and fishing licenses to disabled veterans at reduced fees and to authorize certain nonresident veterans to get nonresident small game licenses at a reduced fee; increases the length of special pheasant hunts in which disabled veterans may participate.
Status: Passed House on February 29
 
Introduced: 01/25/2016
Sponsor: Senator Corey Brown 
Issue Brief: Fishing Tournament
Summary: Limits certain liability for hosts of fishing tournaments.
Status: Passed House on March 2  
 
Introduced: 11/18/2015
Sponsor: Representative Joel Kleefisch, Co-Chair, Wisconsin Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief: General 
Summary: Authorizes a person to shoot to kill an animal wounded by another person while hunting; provides for youth hunting.
Status: Signed by Governor (Act No. 225) on March 1   
 
Introduced: 01/13/2016
Sponsor: Representative Alvin Ott, Member, Wisconsin Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief: General 
Summary: Relates to the date on which the annual open season for hunting and trapping wolves begins.
Status: Order enrolled on February 25   
 
Introduced: 10/09/2015
Sponsor: Senator Duey Stroebel
Issue Brief: General 
Summary: Relates to trolling permits issued to persons whose sight is impaired; requires the Department of Natural Resources to issue trolling permits to persons whose eyesight is impaired; requires such person to produce a certificate from a license physician or optometrist stating that his or her sight is impaired to the degree that he or she cannot read newspaper print with or without glasses; provides such permit allows such a person to fish or troll using an electric motor.
Status: Order enrolled on February 25   
 
Introduced: 10/14/2015
Sponsor: Senator Richard Gudex
Issue Brief: Freshwater Angling Access
Summary: Relates to an exemption from civil liability related to the placement of certain structures in navigable waters and wetlands.
Status: To Governor on February 25

Introduced: 12/07/2015
Sponsor: Senator Tom Tiffany, Member, Wisconsin Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus       
Issue Brief: General     
Summary: Exempts the naturally shed feathers of a grouse, partridge, pheasant, quail, or wild turkey and the feathers of a lawfully taken of these same species from the current prohibition on the sale, purchase, barter, or trade, the offer to sell, purchase, barter, or trade, and the possession or control for the purposes of selling, bartering, or trading of any wild animal.
Status: To Governor on February 25

Introduced: 01/22/2016
Sponsor: Senator Tom Tiffany, Member, Wisconsin Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus    
Issue Brief: General 
Summary: Relates to shining wild animals.
Status: To Governor on February 25


WESTERN STATES 


Introduced: 03/06/2015
Sponsor: Representative Dave Talerico, Member, Alaska Legislative Outdoor Heritage Caucus
Issue Brief: Budget Bill; License (General)
Summary: Raises certain fees related to sport fishing, hunting, and trapping; relates to the fish and game fund; provides for the repeal of the sport fishing surcharge and sport fishing facility revenue bonds; raises the age of eligibility for a sport fishing, hunting, or trapping license exemption for state residents; raises the age at which a state resident is required to obtain a license for sport fishing, hunting, or trapping.
Status: Public hearing held in Senate Resources Committee on February 29 
 
Introduced: 01/21/2016
Sponsor: Senator Gail Griffin, Member, Arizona Legislators for Wildlife
Issue Brief: General
Summary: Relates to Mexican wolf; relates to Game and Fish (G&F) approval; relates to reporting.
Status: 
To House Committee on Military Affairs and Public Safety. Additional referred to House Committee on Rules. Withdrawn from House Committee on Military Affairs and Public Safety. Additional referred to House Committee on Agriculture, Water and Lands on March 2


Introduced: 02/09/2016
Sponsor: Assembly Member James Gallagher, Member, California Outdoor Sporting Caucus
Issue Brief: Seniors, Veterans, and Active Duty Military, Hunting and Angling Privileges
Summary: Requires the Department of Fish and Wildlife to reduce the fee required to obtain the hunting and sport fishing licenses by an unspecified percentage for a person who is a veteran of the Armed Forces of the United States and is a resident.
Status: To Assembly Committee on Water, Parks and Wildlife, and Veterans on February 25

Introduced: 02/17/2016
Sponsor: Senator Mike Morrell
Issue Brief: Seniors, Veterans, and Active Duty Military, Hunting and Angling Privileges
Summary: Requires the Department of Fish and Wildlife to issue a free hunting license to a disabled veteran or recovering service member and to issue a reduced fee hunting license, upon application and a payment of a fee to a veteran of the Armed Forces who was honorably discharged, and a free fishing license thereto.
Status: To Senate Committee on Natural Resources and Water on February 25 

Introduced: 01/13/2016
Sponsor: Senator Kerry Donovan, Co-Chair, Colorado Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief: General
Summary: Concerns recognition of the fourth Monday in March as a state holiday, and, in connection therewith, designating the fourth Monday in March as public lands day.
Status: To house Committee on State, Veterans & Military Affairs on March 3 

Introduced: 01/27/2016
Sponsor: Representative Richard Onishi        
Issue Brief: General     
Summary: Establishes a game commission to serve in an advisory capacity to the Governor and the Board of Land and Natural Resources; makes an appropriation.
Status: In House Committee on Finance: Voted do pass on March 1   
 
Introduced: 01/25/2016
Sponsor: Representative Kaniela Ing
Issue Brief: Angler Access 
Summary: Requires the Department of Land and Natural Resources to designate and adopt rules for the management of no fewer than five community-based subsistence fishing areas; establishes designation process and rule requirements.
Status: In House Committee on Finance: Voted do pass (13-2) on February 25
 
Introduced: 01/26/2016
Sponsor: Representative Cindy Evans   
Issue Brief: Range Protection
Summary: Appropriates funds for public outreach, planning, and an environmental impact statement for a Hawaii island public shooting facility.
Status: In House Committee on Finance: Voted do pass (15-0) on February 25
 
Introduced: 01/20/2016
Sponsor: Senator Ronald Kouchi 
Issue Brief: Apprentice Hunting License   
Summary: Establishes the Hawaii apprentice hunting license program; provides for the issuance of a Hawaii apprentice hunting license to program participants; establishes requirements for program participation; exempts holder of an apprentice license from taking the required hunter education class prior to licensure Hawaii Revised Statutes.
Status: In Senate Committee on Ways and Means: Voted do pass with amendment (10-0) on March 1
 
Introduced: 01/20/2016
Sponsor: Senator Tulsi Gabbard  
Issue Brief: Interstate Wildlife Violators Compact    
Summary: Authorizes the Department of Land and Natural Resources to enter into the interstate wildlife violator compact or similar agreement for mutual assistance in the enforcement of wildlife laws.
Status: In Senate Committee on Ways and Means: Voted do pass with amendment (10-0) on March 1
 
Introduced: 01/26/2016
Sponsor: Representative Ronald Kouchi    
Issue Brief: Public Access Private Lands  
Summary: (Governor) Requires hunters to obtain written permission from landowners or occupiers or holders of private lands to hunt on private lands; effective July 1, 2016.
Status: From Senate Committee on Judiciary and Labor: Do pass as amended (SD1). Forty-eight hours notice on March 3 
 
Introduced: 01/20/2016
Sponsor: Senator Ronald Kouchi
Issue Brief: General   
Summary: Supports game mammal, game bird, and fishing resources in order to promote sustainability and food security and to preserve long standing local and cultural practices.
Status: In Senate Committee on Water, Land, and Agriculture: Voted do pass with amendment (5-0) on March 2 
 
Introduced: 02/10/2016
Sponsor: House Resources and Conservation Committee
Issue Brief: General   
Summary: Relates to hunting and trapping; amends existing law to remove age limitations for certain exceptions; provides for predatory and unprotected birds and animals; relates to private property.
Status: To Senate Committee on Resources and Environment on February 26 
 
Introduced: 01/26/2016
Sponsor: Senate Resources and Environment Committee
Issue Brief: General  
Summary: Amends existing law to prohibit the use of unmanned aircraft systems for hunting, molesting or locating game animals, game birds and furbearing animals.
Status: Signed by Governor on February 25
 
Introduced: 02/19/2016
Sponsor: Senate State Affairs Committee
Issue Brief: General  
Summary: Amends and adds to existing law to revise provisions regarding controlled hunts; provides for contracts with private entities to conduct drawings for controlled hunt permits and tags.
Status: To House Committee on Resources and Conservation on February 29
 
Introduced: 02/11/2016
Sponsor: Senate Resources and Environment Committee
Issue Brief: Exotic Invasive Species
Summary: States findings of the Legislature; requests that Congress ensure the continued appropriation of funds in the fiscal year 2017 budget to significantly enhance aquatic invasive species prevention efforts; implements the intent of the Water Resources Reform and Development Act.
Status: From House Committee on Resources and Conservation: Do pass on February 26
 
Introduced: 02/01/2016
Sponsor: Representative Wayne Krieger, Member, Oregon Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief: Enforcement
Summary: Increases damages for unlawful taking or killing of wildlife; punishes certain violations of wildlife laws with mandatory revocation of licenses, permits and tags; requires civil forfeiture of certain devices upon third conviction within 10-year period for violation of provision of wildlife laws or rule adopted pursuant to wildlife laws; expands provisions relating to parts unlawful to be removed from wildlife.
Status: Passed Senate; eligible for Governor's desk on March 2
 
Introduced: 02/04/2016
Sponsor: Senator Arnie Roblan, Member, Oregon Legislative Sportsmen's Caucus
Issue Brief: Exotic Invasive Species
Summary: Urges Congress to ensure continued appropriation of funds to enhance aquatic invasive species prevention efforts and to implement Water Resources Reform and Development Act.
Status: Senate concurred in House amendments on February 29
 
Introduced: 01/16/2016
Sponsor: Representative Brian Blake
Issue Brief: Seniors, Veterans, and Active Duty Military, Hunting and Angling Privileges
Summary: Concerns license fees for National Guard members under Title 77 RCW.
Status: Placed on 2nd Reading by Rules Committee on March 2 
 
Introduced: 01/11/2016
Sponsor: Senator Bruce Dammeier
Issue Brief: General
Summary: Concerns the transfer of firearms at nonprofit fund-raising activities; provides exemption from background check requirement for temporary transfer of a firearm for the purpose of conducting nonprofit fundraising activities. 
Status: In Senate Committee on Rules: Indefinitely postponed on February 25
 
Introduced: 02/08/2016
Sponsor: Representative Albert Sommers
Issue Brief: General
Summary: Requests Congress to enact legislation to remove the gray wolf and grizzly bear populations from listing under the endangered species act and to assist in funding programs and services for gray wolf and grizzly bear management.
Status: Passed Senate (30-0) on February 29 
        SCISCI 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 go to 
www.SportsmensLink.org

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


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