Oklahoma Senate Bill SB773

Oklahoma 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/1/21
• Refer: 2/2/21
• Report Pass: 2/22/21
• Engrossed: 3/4/21
• Refer: 3/22/21
• Report Pass: 3/30/21

Caption

Nuisance wildlife; authorizing certain persons to hunt or kill prairie dogs without a permit. Effective date.

Impact

If enacted, SB773 would change existing regulations by allowing for more flexible management of prairie dog populations, which are often considered pests due to their potential damage to agricultural lands. This flexibility is particularly significant during seasons when hunting regulations may otherwise restrict such actions. By empowering landowners to take direct action against nuisance wildlife, the bill is designed to facilitate better protection of agricultural interests, potentially leading to an increase in crop yields and reduced economic losses attributed to wildlife damage.

Summary

Senate Bill 773 aims to allow private property landowners, lessees, or their designated agents to control nuisance wildlife, specifically prairie dogs, without the need for a permit. The bill permits these individuals to hunt or kill prairie dogs during the day, regardless of statewide season regulations, bag limits, or methods of taking, as long as it is to protect agricultural crops and other materials essential for agricultural production. Furthermore, the bill restricts individuals who have been convicted of specific offenses related to wildlife control from being allowed to control prairie dogs at night for a period of three years following their conviction.

Sentiment

The sentiment towards SB773 appears to be generally supportive among agricultural stakeholders, who likely view the bill as a necessary tool for managing wildlife that poses a threat to their livelihoods. However, there may be mixed feelings regarding the implications for wildlife protection and conservation efforts. Opponents might raise concerns about the potential for overhunting or the ecological impact of allowing unrestricted hunting of prairie dogs, which can play a role in their ecosystems. Nonetheless, the primary focus of support is on the immediate benefits to agricultural producers.

Contention

Notable points of contention around SB773 may center on the balance between agricultural needs and wildlife conservation. While the bill aims to reduce the burden on landowners in managing prairie dog populations, it could also lead to debates over wildlife management practices and the broader ramifications of unrestricted hunting. Stakeholders may express differing opinions about the adequacy of the three-year ban for repeat offenders, as well, highlighting concerns about responsible wildlife management and local ecosystem health.