Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB365

Introduced

3/14/23

Refer

3/14/23

Refer

5/22/23

Report Pass

5/23/23

Engrossed

5/23/23

Refer

6/2/23

Caption

In fishing licenses, further providing for exemptions from license requirements.

Impact

By eliminating the need for a fishing license under specific educational and therapeutic contexts, HB 365 aims to increase accessibility to fishing activities for individuals participating in structured programs. This change is particularly significant for educational institutions and organizations providing therapeutic outdoor activities, as it allows them to facilitate fishing experiences without the additional step of obtaining licenses for attendees. The amendment is expected to foster engagement in recreational fishing while promoting educational and therapeutic advantages tied to such activities.

Summary

House Bill 365 amends Title 30 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, specifically regarding fishing licenses. The bill introduces exemptions from the requirement of possessing a fishing license for participants in educational and therapeutic recreation programs. This provision aims to encourage participation in such programs by reducing bureaucratic barriers and allowing individuals engaging in supervised activities to fish without needing a license, provided certain standards are met. The programs must be overseen by licensed instructors and approved by the relevant executive authority.

Sentiment

The sentiment toward HB 365 appears generally positive among legislators and advocacy groups focused on outdoor education and recreational activities. Supporters advocate that the bill reduces unnecessary regulations that could hinder participation in beneficial programs. By streamlining the process through these exemptions, the bill is viewed as a positive step toward increasing public access to recreational fishing without compromising safety or oversight. However, specific critiques may arise regarding the bill's execution and ensuring that educational programs maintain adequate supervision and safety standards.

Contention

There may be points of contention surrounding the implementation of the exemption, particularly in regards to maintaining strict oversight and clear guidelines for program administrators. Some legislators may raise concerns about ensuring that this exemption does not lead to abuse or negligence regarding fishing regulations. Effectively balancing the need for accessible recreational opportunities with the necessity of maintaining responsible fishing practices could be a focal point for future discussions related to HB 365.

Latest PA HB365 Activity

View All Events: PA 2023-2024 Regular Session HB365

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA SB146

In fishing licenses, further providing for exemptions from license requirements.

PA SB522

In fishing licenses, providing for volunteer firefighters; and, in hunting and furtaking licenses, further providing for resident license and fee exemptions and for license costs and fees.

PA SB469

In fishing licenses, providing for law enforcement; and, in hunting and furtaking licenses, further providing for resident license and fee exemptions and for license costs and fees.

PA HB2508

In fishing licenses, further providing for disabled veterans and former prisoners of war; and, in hunting and furtaking licenses, further providing for resident license and fee exemptions.

PA HB2534

In fishing licenses, providing for law enforcement; and, in hunting and furtaking licenses, further providing for resident license and fee exemptions and for license costs and fees.

PA SB917

In fishing licenses, providing for law enforcement; and, in hunting and furtaking licenses, further providing for resident license and fee exemptions and for license costs and fees.

PA SB698

In hunting and furtaking licenses, further providing for license requirements; and, in special licenses and permits, further providing for

PA HB303

In hunting and furtaking licenses, further providing for resident license and fee exemptions.

PA SB423

In fishing licenses, providing for volunteer firefighters, volunteer special fire police officers and volunteer emergency medical service technicians; and, in hunting and furtaking licenses, further providing for resident license and fee exemptions and for license costs and fees.

PA SB533

In hunting and furtaking licenses, further providing for license requirements; and, in special licenses and permits, further providing for regulated hunting grounds permits.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.