New Hampshire 2025 Regular Session

New Hampshire Senate Bill SB32

Introduced
1/7/25  
Refer
1/7/25  
Report Pass
1/16/25  
Engrossed
3/28/25  
Refer
3/28/25  

Caption

Relative to the fish and game commission.

Impact

Additionally, SB32 permits the shooting of injured or crippled waterfowl from motorized watercraft—an adjustment that could impact hunting practices and wildlife management strategies. The bill also modifies current fishing regulations by removing specific references to 'brook' trout, potentially simplifying regulations for anglers. Furthermore, it allows the executive director of the fish and game department to establish a fisheries habitat fee through rule-making, which introduces a more flexible funding mechanism for conservation efforts.

Summary

Senate Bill 32, known as the act relative to the fish and game commission, encompasses several significant changes to existing wildlife and fisheries management laws in New Hampshire. One of the primary provisions of the bill is the allowance for digital posting of public hearing notices on newspaper websites, thus modernizing the communication of public hearings related to fishing rules and other commission matters. This change aims to increase public accessibility and engagement in the decision-making process concerning fish and game regulation in the state.

Conclusion

Overall, Senate Bill 32 represents a significant shift in New Hampshire's approach to fish and game management, moving towards a more modernized system that incorporates public input through digital means while also adjusting hunting and fishing regulations. The long-term effects of these changes on local ecosystems, conservation efforts, and community engagement in wildlife management will be key points to monitor following the bill's passage.

Contention

Another notable aspect of SB32 is the repeal of the Connecticut River Atlantic Salmon Commission, which may raise concerns among stakeholders focused on salmon conservation efforts. The bill's passage could be contentious as it balances the interests of hunters, anglers, conservationists, and the general public. Critics may argue that some provisions, particularly those impacting wildlife management and habitat conservation funding, could undermine effective regulations or diminish the robustness of fishing and wildlife conservation measures.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NH HB1148

Relative to the fish and game commission.

NH SB18

Relative to the purchase of duck stamps and the suspension or revocation of a license issued by the fish and game commission.

NH HB442

Relative to the removal of derelict fishing gear.

NH SB542

Creating a committee to study fish and game department funding and partnerships.

NH HB1558

Relative to agent fees for fish and game licenses.

NH HB221

Relative to the acquisition of agricultural land development rights and relative to advanced deposit account wagering and relative to the use of game cameras.

NH SB14

Relative to the use of game cameras and relative to penalties for controlled drug violations.

NH HB607

Relative to the regulation of games of chance.

NH SB503

Relative to requiring a criminal background check when applying for a fish and game guide license and relative to zoning and planning regulations for municipal parking.

NH SB19

Relative to the operation of bingo games and the sale of lucky 7 tickets.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.