Oklahoma House Bill HB2721

Oklahoma 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/1/21
• Refer: 2/2/21
• Refer: 2/17/21

Caption

Game and fish; prohibiting waste of edible meat of wildlife; effective date.

Impact

The primary impact of HB2721 is on the state's hunting regulations and wildlife management policies. By making it illegal to waste edible parts of wildlife, the bill not only promotes a more sustainable approach to hunting but also aligns with broader conservation goals. Individuals convicted of violating this law face significant fines ranging from $500 to $1,000, and their hunting or fishing licenses may be revoked for a period of one to ten years, depending on the circumstances of the violation. This strict enforcement is intended to deter potential offenders and encourage hunters to respect wildlife resources.

Summary

House Bill 2721 aims to enhance wildlife conservation efforts in Oklahoma by prohibiting the waste of edible meat from wildlife. The bill amends existing regulations under 29 O.S. 2011, specifically Section 7-205, to impose strict penalties for individuals who capture, kill, and abandon wildlife without utilizing the meat. This legislative move is positioned as a way to ensure responsible hunting practices while also addressing concerns related to ethical treatment of wildlife and reducing unnecessary waste in natural resources.

Contention

However, the bill has led to discussions among stakeholders regarding the implications of such regulations. Some hunters and outdoor enthusiasts are concerned about the potential for overreach in tracking and penalizing hunting practices. There are worries that the penalties could disproportionately affect those who may unintentionally fail to use parts of an animal, raising questions about the enforcement of these provisions and whether they may hinder responsible hunting practices rather than enhance them.