Alabama House Bill HB503

Alabama 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/15/22
• Refer: 3/15/22
• Engrossed: 3/29/22
• Refer: 3/29/22

Caption

Deer hunting, commercial deer hunting operation licensing program, established, licenses and licensing fees, special hunting seasons, Conservation and Natural Resources Dept. to enforce and adopt rules, criminal penalties for violations

Impact

The impact of HB 503 includes providing a legal framework for the management of deer hunting within registered enclosures. This legislation will facilitate state enforcement of game laws and hunting regulations on such properties, thereby ensuring compliance with wildlife management standards. The bill empowers the Commissioner of the DCNR to establish the hunting period for these enclosures, aligning it with broader state regulations on hunting seasons.

Summary

House Bill 503 establishes a licensing program for certain owners and operators of deer enclosures in Alabama, allowing them to register with the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) for gun deer stalk hunting to commence earlier than on other privately owned or leased lands. The bill sets an annual registration fee of $2,500 and stipulates that registration forms must be submitted by July 1 each year. The funds collected through these registration fees will be allocated to the Game and Fish Fund of the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. This provision aims to regulate commercial deer hunting operations more effectively.

Contention

One point of contention regarding HB 503 is the increase in regulation and oversight of commercial deer hunting operations. By requiring registration and enforcing compliance through penalties for violations—classified as Class C misdemeanors—the bill may prompt discussions among stakeholders about the balance between regulatory oversight and the rights of private landowners. Additionally, concerns may arise regarding the potential burden on small operators who may find the registration fee prohibitive or need clarification on compliance with newly established rules.