Bill > HB655

This bill makes several significant changes to fish and game regulations in New Hampshire, focusing on increasing penalties and adjusting permit requirements. First, the bill mandates restitution for illegally taking or possessing wildlife, substantially increasing the monetary penalties for various animals. For example, the restitution for illegally taking a deer rises from $250 to $1,000, and for a wild turkey from $200 to $500. The bill changes the language from "may" to "shall" make restitution, making these payments mandatory. Additionally, the bill introduces stricter consequences for repeat offenders, allowing the executive director to revoke or suspend hunting licenses for individuals who have been found guilty of three violations within seven years, with a suspension period ranging from one to seven years. The bill also establishes a Class A misdemeanor penalty for habitual offenders who commit three separate fish and game law violations. Another provision removes the requirement for a perpetual crossbow permit for certain persons with disabilities, instead requiring permit records to be maintained for at least seven years. Finally, the bill adds Atlantic menhaden to the list of species that nonresidents cannot take unless their home state provides reciprocal licensing privileges to New Hampshire residents. Most sections of the bill will take effect 60 days after passage, with some provisions taking effect immediately.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Justice

https://gc.nh.gov/bill_status/legacy/bs2016/bill_docket.aspx?lsr=0347&sy=2025&sortoption=&txtsessionyear=2025&txtbillnumber=HB655