Pennsylvania House Bill HB2107

Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/14/24
• Refer: 3/14/24
• Refer: 6/24/24
• Report Pass: 6/27/24
• Engrossed: 6/27/24
• Refer: 6/30/24

Caption

In enforcement, further providing for powers and duties of enforcement officers; and, in protection of property and persons, providing for mitigation of damage and for registry of responsible hunters.

Impact

If enacted, HB2107 would amend Title 34 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, particularly in the enforcement and powers of wildlife enforcement officers. Additionally, it aims to streamline processes for farmers seeking to protect their crops from damage caused by game animals. This bill is intended to create clearer guidelines for wildlife management which are beneficial for both agricultural interests and conservation efforts. The successful implementation of this registry is seen as essential for enhancing cooperation between agricultural communities and hunting qualifications.

Summary

House Bill 2107 aims to revise regulations concerning the management of wildlife, specifically addressing the interactions between farmers and deer or other game that may cause damage to crops and property. This legislation introduces a registry of responsible hunters which farmers can utilize to manage wildlife effectively. Under this bill, farmers or their authorized agents are granted specific rights to address damage caused by deer or other game, which includes the ability to kill and dress the animals causing such damage on their property. The proposal underscores a proactive approach to mitigate potential losses from wildlife interference.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB2107 is predominantly positive among agricultural stakeholders who view it as a necessary measure to safeguard their livelihoods. However, some wildlife advocacy groups express concerns about the potential consequences of allowing easier killing of deer and other game, arguing that it could undermine wildlife conservation efforts if not carefully regulated. The balance between agricultural protection and sustainable wildlife management is a key point of discussion among lawmakers as they consider the implications of this legislation.

Contention

A notable point of contention regarding HB2107 is the potential for abuse of the new allowances it would grant. Critics worry that the expanded powers for farmers and hunters could lead to unnecessary killings of wildlife, potentially destabilizing local ecosystems. Furthermore, discussions have raised the importance of ensuring that the registry includes clear qualifications and protections against misuse. As such, while the proposed protections for farmers are important, there are concerns that they must be coupled with stringent guidelines to prevent negative impacts on local wildlife populations.