Bill > HB1637

This bill amends Mississippi's existing law regarding hunting and fishing on private property without permission, introducing more specific restitution requirements. The legislation maintains the prohibition against entering another's land without the landowner's permission to hunt, fish, shoot, or trap, and continues to impose escalating fines for offenders. The key changes include a more targeted restitution structure: for fish taken from private lakes or ponds, offenders must now pay a flat $100 per fish, and a new assessment is established for wild animals and birds, ranging from $100 to $500 per animal or bird, with a maximum total assessment of $2,000. The bill also specifies that these additional restitution assessments will be collected by the court clerk, deposited with the State Treasurer, and ultimately credited to the Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks' Fisheries and Wildlife Fund. The purpose appears to be providing a clearer financial deterrent and compensation mechanism for landowners whose property is illegally accessed for hunting or fishing, while also generating funds for wildlife conservation efforts.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2025/pdf/history/HB/HB1637.xml