Brief Description: Authorizing an active duty special hunt.

Sponsors: Representatives Serben, B. Sullivan, Buck, Sells, Kretz and Morrell.

Hearing Date: 1/31/06

Staff: Amy Van Horn (786-7168).

Background:

Hunting Seasons

The Fish and Wildlife Commission (Commission) prescribes specific dates and times during which deer and elk may be hunted. In the fall of 2005, the Department of Fish and Wildlife (Department) established specific seasons for modern firearm, archery, and muzzleloader hunts for deer and elk, each lasting between a week and a month. The hunting seasons began in September and ended in December, 2005.

Special Hunts

The Department also has the authority to authorize special hunting seasons by rule. Residents pay $5 to enter the drawing for a special hunt, and must also have a hunting license. For example, to hunt deer in a special hunt, one must possess a big game license as well as a special hunting season permit.   

Active Duty Privileges

People actively serving in the military are exempted from one of the Commission's fishing restrictions. Unlike other license-holders, active service members may use their temporary combination fishing licenses for eight consecutive days to fish for game fish during the lowland lake fishing season.

Summary of Bill:

The Commission must establish a special hunting season for deer and elk named the "Active Duty Special Hunt." Permits will be available only to people who missed the last hunting season for deer or elk due to active duty in the United States Armed Forces, National Guard, or reserves. The hunt will last for seven days and will take place in the game management units prescribed for the regular season big game hunts.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.