Oklahoma House Bill HB1648

Oklahoma 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/1/21
• Refer: 2/2/21

Caption

Game and fish; directing the Oklahoma Wildlife Conservation Commission to establish a big foot hunting season; effective date.

Impact

The implication of HB1648 on state laws pertains to wildlife management and hunting regulations, as it creates a specific framework for managing a fictional creature. This could lead to necessary updates in the Oklahoma Statutes, establishing a regulated means for engaging with the idea of Bigfoot hunting, even though its existence is not scientifically substantiated. This legislation could also influence how the state manages developers and promoters of hunting tourism, possibly leading to new business opportunities.

Summary

House Bill 1648 aims to establish a designated hunting season for Bigfoot in the state of Oklahoma. The bill assigns the responsibility to the Oklahoma Wildlife Conservation Commission to set the regulations regarding this unique hunting season. This includes determining the annual dates for the hunting season and establishing specific licenses and fees required for participation in the hunt. By formalizing such a season, the legislature appears to be acknowledging the cultural significance and popularity of Bigfoot amongst certain communities, which could also serve to increase tourism and related activities in the state.

Contention

While the bill may garner support for its novelty and potential economic benefits, it equally raises questions about the practicality of establishing regulations around a creature that has not been proven to exist. Critics might argue that the state's resources could be better allocated to the management of verified wildlife populations and issues of significant ecological concern. Furthermore, this legislation invites discussions on ethical hunting practices and the responsibilities of the state in promoting activities based on folklore and speculation.