Missouri House Bill HB1363

Missouri 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/1/23
• Refer: 3/23/23

Caption

Requires the Department of Conservation to pay the first two hundred fifty dollars of damages to a motor vehicle that collides with a deer

Impact

If enacted, HB 1363 would amend chapter 252 of Missouri's laws, creating a new section that establishes a formal process for vehicle owners to claim reimbursement for damages caused by wildlife. The bill's implementation would necessitate the establishment of guidelines by the Department of Conservation to determine the validity of claims and the conditions under which reimbursement is granted. This could lead to changes in how wildlife management and vehicular damage claims are handled in the state, potentially reducing the number of disputes or misunderstandings regarding such incidents.

Summary

House Bill 1363 aims to provide financial relief to vehicle owners who have experienced damage as a result of collisions with wildlife managed by the Department of Conservation. Specifically, the bill stipulates that the department will reimburse the vehicle owner for the first $250 of repair costs associated with such collisions. This measure is intended to address the financial burden that these types of accidents can impose on drivers, while also acknowledging the need to manage wildlife populations responsibly.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding the bill appears to be generally positive among those who have supported its introduction. Proponents argue that it will provide necessary financial help to individuals who may otherwise be left with heavy expenses due to unavoidable wildlife collisions. However, potential concerns may arise regarding the fiscal sustainability of reimbursing claims and how the state will manage the cost incurred by these reimbursements in the long run.

Contention

Despite its supportive sentiment, there may be contention regarding the eligibility criteria for claims and the proof required to substantiate that damage was indeed caused by wildlife managed by the department. Critics may raise questions about the potential for fraudulent claims and how the program will be funded. Moreover, decisions regarding which wildlife species fall under this reimbursement scheme could lead to debates about wildlife management priorities and the state's responsibilities toward both wildlife and its motorists.