Mississippi Senate Bill SB2642

Mississippi 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/19/24
• Refer: 2/19/24
• Failed: 3/5/24

Caption

Physical tagging and harvest reporting programs; direct Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks to establish for deer.

Impact

The implementation of SB2642 is expected to enhance the state's wildlife management efforts by providing better oversight of deer populations, which can help address conservation concerns. The program aims to collect comprehensive harvest data that can inform future regulations and management strategies. By formally documenting the number and type of deer harvested, the bill may help in managing local wildlife populations effectively and sustainably.

Summary

Senate Bill 2642 seeks to amend Section 49-7-26 of the Mississippi Code to establish a mandatory physical tagging and reporting program for deer harvested by both resident and nonresident hunters. The bill mandates the Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks to implement these programs to improve data collection on harvest rates and ensure compliance with bag limits. Key aspects of the legislation include the requirement for hunters to physically tag deer and turkeys before transportation and a mobile application to facilitate reporting these tags.

Contention

There are points of contention surrounding the imposition of fines and administrative fees outlined in the bill. For example, violations of the tagging requirements could lead to substantial penalties, ranging from $100 to $1,000 depending on repeat offenses. Critics of the bill may view these potential fines as excessive, posing financial burdens on hunters, particularly those who are less experienced or unaware of the new regulations. Furthermore, the enforcement mechanisms and requirements for taxidermists and processors to verify tagging before accepting game could also face resistance from industry stakeholders concerned about regulatory overreach.