Hunting; require tree stands to be tagged with name and address of owner.
Impact
The passage of SB2158 will result in a modification of existing laws under Chapter 7 of Title 49 of the Mississippi Code of 1972, which deals with wildlife regulations. The legislation represents a proactive approach by the state legislature to improve the monitoring of tree stands, which are commonly utilized by hunters. By establishing a tagging system, the state aims to deter illegal activities, enhance safety for both hunters and landowners, and streamline the process for identifying the owners of abandoned or improperly used tree stands.
Summary
Senate Bill 2158 aims to enhance the accountability and safety of tree stands placed on public lands or on private property by requiring individuals to tag these stands with their identifying information. Specifically, the bill mandates that any person who places a tree stand in these areas must attach a weather-resistant tag that displays their name and address. This requirement is intended to ensure that tree stands can be easily identified in the event they are abandoned or used unlawfully, thus promoting responsible hunting practices and facilitating property management by landowners.
Contention
While the bill seeks to improve safety and accountability, it may face some opposition based on privacy concerns and the potential burden it could place on hunters. Critics might argue that the requirement to attach identifying tags could discourage individuals from utilizing public lands for hunting, potentially impacting participation rates. Moreover, there could be concerns about how this law is enforced and whether it effectively addresses the issues it aims to solve without infringing on the rights of hunters and property owners.
Hunting and fishing license; authorize Native Americans to receive free of charge upon providing a tribal identification card at the time of license issuance.