Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session

Iowa House Bill HF2180

Introduced
1/29/24  
Introduced
1/29/24  

Caption

A bill for an act relating to the retrieval of wounded deer by use of a registered unmanned aerial vehicle, and providing penalties.(See HF 2365.)

Impact

Should HF2180 be enacted, it would modify existing hunting laws pertaining to the retrieval of game, especially deer. The bill would create clear guidelines and a regulatory framework for UAV use in this context, likely improving the efficiency of deer recovery processes for hunters. Additionally, it explicitly outlines the penalties for violating these provisions, establishing a scheduled fine of $250 for non-compliance with the UAV retrieval regulations. This regulation aims to balance the needs of hunters looking to retrieve wounded game with a framework to ensure safety and accountability.

Summary

House File 2180 (HF2180) introduces provisions for retrieving wounded deer utilizing registered unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Designed for individuals who hold valid hunting and deer hunting licenses, the bill allows these hunters to track and retrieve deer they have wounded during hunting sessions using UAVs. This practice is permitted solely under the condition that the UAV is registered with relevant authorities, specifically the Department of Natural Resources and the Federal Aviation Administration, to ensure compliance with existing aviation regulations. Moreover, the bill details that UAV usage for deer retrieval can be performed on private property, provided the property owner has granted consent.

Contention

While HF2180 may streamline the retrieval process for hunters, it could also raise concerns regarding the use of technology in wildlife management and the ethical implications of UAV-assisted hunting. Supporters of the bill may argue that it enhances humane hunting practices by allowing hunters to recover wounded deer effectively, while opponents could view it as a potential disruption to traditional hunting methods. As the legislature considers this reformed approach, discussions are likely to focus on the implications for hunting ethics, technological dependence within wildlife management, and the overall impact on deer populations and ecosystems.

Companion Bills

IA HF2365

Similar To A bill for an act relating to the retrieval of wounded deer by use of a registered unmanned aerial vehicle, and providing penalties.(Formerly HF 2180.)

Previously Filed As

IA HF2365

A bill for an act relating to the retrieval of wounded deer by use of a registered unmanned aerial vehicle, and providing penalties.(Formerly HF 2180.)

IA SB721

Authorizing use of unmanned aerial vehicles to track certain mortally wounded wild animals

IA SF2013

A bill for an act relating to the baiting of deer on public or private property and providing penalties.(See SF 2241.)

IA HSB636

A bill for an act relating to fur-bearing animals, including the establishment of a raccoon bounty program and fund and the assessment of fur dealer license fees, making appropriations, and providing penalties.(See HF 2481, HF 2665.)

IA HF2481

A bill for an act relating to fur-bearing animals, including the establishment of a raccoon bounty program and fund and the assessment of fur dealer license fees, making appropriations, and providing penalties.(Formerly HSB 636; See HF 2665.)

IA SF2241

A bill for an act relating to the baiting of deer on public or private property and providing penalties.(Formerly SF 2013.)

IA S07550

Allows the use of unmanned aerial vehicles in tracking big game that are dead, wounded or injured.

IA HF107

A bill for an act relating to operation of all-terrain vehicles or off-road utility vehicles on public hunting areas.(See HF 473.)

IA HF473

A bill for an act relating to operation of all-terrain vehicles or off-road utility vehicles on public hunting areas.(Formerly HF 107.)

IA HB3489

Relating to the use of an unmanned aircraft to locate and retrieve wounded or killed wildlife.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.