Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB174

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/10/23
• Refer: 4/10/23
• Report Pass: 10/19/23
• Refer: 10/19/23
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Nuisance wildlife management at airports.

Impact

The primary impact of AB174 lies in its amendment of provisions regarding the use of firearms and the management of wildlife in airport settings. By allowing designated personnel to operate under exceptions to existing firearm regulations, the bill aims to enable prompt and effective handling of wildlife issues that could affect airport operations. It modifies statutory language to exempt these personnel from certain restrictions, thereby ensuring that they can manage nuisances more efficiently while complying with regulatory frameworks.

Summary

Assembly Bill 174 proposes amendments to existing state laws concerning the management of nuisance wildlife at airports, particularly public-use airports and those under the control of the national guard or U.S. Department of Defense. The bill clarifies the roles and responsibilities of 'designated personnel,' which includes employees and contractors of the airports, as well as federal agents, allowing them to engage in wildlife management activities in accordance with state and federal permits. This adjustment is aimed at facilitating mitigation measures for wildlife that could pose safety risks at these facilities.

Contention

Notably, the bill has sparked discussions concerning the balance between wildlife protection and operational safety at airports. Supporters argue that these changes are necessary to streamline obligatory procedures that could otherwise lead to hazardous situations. Critics, however, raise concerns about the potential for mismanagement and the ethical implications of wildlife control methods that could be employed. Ensuring that these operations remain within the realms of humane treatment while addressing safety is a key point of contention among legislative discussions surrounding AB174.