Connecticut House Bill HB05516

Connecticut 2011 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/20/11
• Refer: 1/20/11
• Refer: 2/17/11
• Report Pass: 3/21/11
• Refer: 3/29/11
• Report Pass: 4/5/11
• Refer: 4/12/11

Caption

An Act Requiring Deposit Of Certain Charitable Contributions In The "turn In Poachers" Fund.

Impact

The passage of HB 5516 will amend existing fish and game statutes, particularly sections related to penalties for poaching. The revised law will allow for a more flexible approach to penalties by giving violators the option of contributing to the Turn In Poachers Fund instead of directly paying fines. The fund will not only be utilized to support the Turn In Poachers program but will also allow for funding a hotline for reporting poaching activities, thus enhancing community engagement in wildlife protection.

Summary

House Bill 5516 is designed to establish a dedicated funding mechanism for the Turn In Poachers program, which aims to combat poaching and improve wildlife conservation efforts in the state. By enacting this bill, any individual who violates the hunting and fishing regulations may contribute to the Turn In Poachers Fund as an alternative to paying fines. This change is intended to provide essential resources for the Department of Environmental Protection, enabling them to support initiatives and activities aimed at reducing poaching and safeguarding fish and game populations.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding HB 5516 appears to be supportive, particularly among environmental advocates and conservationists who view the expanded funding as a positive step for wildlife management efforts. Proponents argue that the bill will create a more proactive approach against poaching, allowing the state to address the issue more effectively and efficiently. However, there are some voices of concern regarding the adequacy of penalties for violators and the potential for reliance on charitable contributions instead of traditional fines.

Contention

Notably, one area of contention revolves around the philosophical implications of offering a monetary alternative to fines for violators. Some critics may argue that such a provision could lead to a perceived leniency in enforcement, potentially enabling habitual offenders to evade stronger penalties. Conversely, supporters maintain that the bill will encourage reporting of poaching incidents and foster a sense of community responsibility towards wildlife conservation.