Bill > LD139

This bill directs the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife (DIFW) to conduct a comprehensive study on establishing an electronic deer tagging program. The department is required to produce a detailed report for the Joint Standing Committee on Inland Fisheries and Wildlife by January 14, 2026, which must include multiple key components: projected program costs, staffing and programming requirements, potential revenue recovery strategies, consultation with local registered deer tagging agents (particularly in rural areas) to understand potential impacts, anticipated effects on biological data collection, compliance and enforcement considerations, and a proposed implementation timeline. The study aims to explore the feasibility and potential challenges of transitioning from traditional to electronic deer tagging methods. The Joint Standing Committee will have the option to introduce legislation based on the report's findings during the Second Regular Session of the 132nd Legislature, potentially paving the way for a future electronic tagging system for deer harvests in the state.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=139&snum=132