Bill > SB31

This bill establishes a new apprentice guide license for individuals seeking to become hunting or fishing guides who have not yet completed the full licensing requirements. To obtain this license, applicants must pass a criminal background check, be certified in first aid and CPR, and can only guide activities while being accompanied by a licensed guide who is at least 18 years old. The licensed guide accompanying the apprentice will be fully responsible for any damages or violations committed by the apprentice during their guided activities. The apprentice guide license can only be purchased once in an applicant's lifetime and cannot be used as proof of previous licensing. The license fees will be set by rules established by the state, and the bill will take effect on January 1, 2026. The Fish and Game Department requested this bill, and its fiscal impact is estimated to be less than $10,000 annually from 2025 to 2028, providing a structured pathway for aspiring guides to gain professional experience under supervision.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Government Affairs

https://gc.nh.gov/bill_status/legacy/bs2016/bill_status.aspx?lsr=367&sy=2025&sortoption=&txtsessionyear=2025&txtbillnumber=SB31