Bill > HB1668

This bill modifies regulations for commercial harvesting facilities involving cervidae (deer and elk) and other wildlife in Oklahoma. It creates a new licensing framework under the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry that requires commercial harvesting facilities to obtain a $300 annual license to legally harvest and hunt privately owned cervidae, including whitetail deer, mule deer, elk, and their hybrids, as well as turkeys and exotic species. The bill prohibits propagating or holding state-owned wildlife in captivity and requires applicants to prove that their animals were not sourced from wild state stock. The Oklahoma Department of Agriculture will have the authority to inspect these facilities with probable cause, and the license will expire annually on August 31st. Additionally, the bill amends existing wildlife licensing regulations, removing certain inspection authorities previously held by wildlife conservation officials and adjusting licensing fee structures and expiration dates. The bill includes an emergency clause, meaning it will take effect immediately upon passage, with the stated purpose of preserving public peace, health, and safety.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=hb1668&Session=2600