SB 5081-S - DIGEST

(DIGEST OF PROPOSED 1ST SUBSTITUTE)

     Authorizes the department to adopt rules to regulate the activities of persons and facilities that care for and rehabilitate injured, diseased, or abandoned wildlife.

     Provides that, upon adoption of such rules by the department, it is unlawful for any person to possess wildlife for the purpose of rehabilitation without first obtaining a current and valid permit to do so under rules adopted under this act.

     Requires the department to inspect each person or facility permitted under this act at least every three years.

     Appropriates the sum of thirty thousand dollars, or as much thereof as may be necessary, from the general fund to the department of fish and wildlife for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2002, solely for a pilot project that will provide financial support in the form of grants to persons or facilities permitted under this act for the rehabilitation of native wildlife species.