Authorizes and directs the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries to study entering into recreational fishing and hunting license reciprocity agreements with Arkansas, Mississippi, and Texas, and to submit its findings to the House Committee on Natural Resources and Environment and the Senate Committee on Natural Resources.
Impact
Should the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries find promising avenues for these reciprocity agreements, state laws concerning hunting and fishing licensing would likely need to be revised to foster a collaborative framework with the neighboring states. This change could lead to increased tourism revenue and support for wildlife conservation efforts within Louisiana, as hunters and fishers contribute financially to these initiatives. Furthermore, this initiative could enhance the marketing appeal of Louisiana's outdoor experiences.
Summary
SCR114 urges and requests the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries to explore the feasibility of entering into recreational fishing and hunting license reciprocity agreements with neighboring states, specifically Arkansas, Mississippi, and Texas. The resolution acknowledges Louisiana's reputation as a prime location for sportsman activities, particularly due to its rich wildlife and outdoor resources that attract sports enthusiasts. The objective is to assess how licensing can be standardized or improved to facilitate more visitors from these states to partake in Louisiana's recreational activities.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding SCR114 appears to be predominantly positive, as it seeks to cultivate a collaborative spirit among southern states and promote Louisiana's natural resources. Legislators recognize the economic potential inherent in attracting non-resident hunters and fishers, and there seems to be broad support for enhancing Louisiana's identity as a destination for outdoor recreational activities.
Contention
While the resolution has received affirmative votes, discussions may arise regarding the actual implementation of such agreements, including potential differences in licensing fees and regulations across states. Stakeholders from conservation groups and the recreational community may voice opinions on ensuring that such agreements remain beneficial for Louisiana's wildlife management objectives and safeguard against over-exploitation of resources. Furthermore, the effectiveness of the proposed agreements in increasing visitor numbers and supporting local economies might also be debated.
Requests the Senate Committee on Natural Resources and the Senate Committee on Environmental Quality to study the social, economic, and environmental impact of the discharge from the Temple Inland facility into the Pearl River.
Urges and requests the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries and the Department of Natural Resources to study the use of water from natural and scenic rivers for certain uses
Order relative to authorizing the joint committee on Environment and Natural Resources to make an investigation and study of certain current Senate documents relative to environment and natural resources matters.
To request the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries to study the possibility of state reciprocity in the issuance of hunting and fishing licenses for certain former members of the U.S. Armed Forces
Requests the Dept. of Wildlife and Fisheries to study for possible implementation the issuance of hunting and recreational fishing licenses for a year from the date of issuance
Allows residents of Arkansas, Mississippi, or Texas to purchase recreational hunting and fishing licenses at resident rates. (See Act) (OR DECREASE SD RV See Note)
Order relative to authorizing the joint committee on Environment and Natural Resources to make an investigation and study of certain current Senate documents relative to environment and natural resources matters.
Directing the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to conduct a study and issue a report on the compensation and benefits packages given to game wardens, waterways conservation officers and Department of Conservation and Natural Resources rangers.