Iowa House Bill HF2365

Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/7/24

Caption

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

Impact

The implementation of HF2365 is significant as it amends existing statutes related to hunting practices in Iowa. By permitting the use of UAVs specifically for tracking wounded deer, the bill expands the definition of legal hunting methods. It mandates that users register their UAVs with both the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and the Federal Aviation Administration, thereby establishing a regulatory framework for UAV use in wildlife management. This reflects a modernization of hunting practices in the state, aligning them with technological advancements.

Summary

House File 2365, also known as HF2365, introduces provisions for the use of registered unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in retrieving wounded deer. The bill allows individuals with valid hunting licenses to use UAVs to track and retrieve deer they have wounded during hunting. This application of technology aims to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of deer recovery efforts, ensuring that hunters can find and humanely dispatch wounded animals, adhering to the established legal methods of hunting.

Contention

Notably, the bill fosters discussions surrounding the ethical implications of using UAVs in hunting. Proponents argue that it promotes humane hunting practices by minimizing suffering and improving recovery rates for wounded deer. However, opponents may raise concerns regarding the potential over-reliance on technology in hunting, arguing it could lead to unsporting practices or diminish the traditional aspects of hunting. Additionally, the requirement for UAV registration could be viewed as an unnecessary burden by some hunters.

Provisions

HF2365 includes regulations that stipulate UAVs cannot be used for hunting or injuring animals other than the wounded deer being tracked. The bill sets penalties for violations of these provisions, emphasizing responsible usage. By requiring consent from property owners for UAV usage on private land, the bill seeks to balance hunting activities with landowner rights and concerns.