Bill > LD157

This bill makes several amendments to Maine's inland fisheries and wildlife laws. It establishes a new Fish and Wildlife Management Education Fund, which will receive $1 from every hunting and trapping license fee to support public education about wildlife management, department programs, and outdoor recreational activities. The bill expands the definition of prohibited areas for discharging firearms to include archery equipment near residential dwellings. It modifies application procedures for hunting permits, including clarifying language about application submission and fees. The bill also updates regulations around trapper education requirements, particularly for individuals who have previously held trapping licenses in other jurisdictions. Additionally, the legislation revises rules about lead sinkers and lead jigs, narrowing the definitions and restrictions on their sale and use. The bill adds several new Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) in different counties, including locations in Washburn, Lexington, Macwahoc, and Rangeley, and makes changes to taxidermist license renewal periods. Finally, the bill updates language related to watercraft operation in swim areas, replacing terms like "motorboat" and "bathing" with more current terminology.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=157&snum=132