Bill > HB287

This bill updates various sections of Georgia's legal code related to environmental protection, game and fish regulations, and watercraft rules. The bill primarily updates reference dates for standards, rules, and regulations from January 1, 2024, to January 1, 2025, which establishes a new baseline for determining criminal violations in several areas. Additionally, the bill introduces several specific changes: it expands courtesy fishing and hunting licenses to include both resident and non-resident paralyzed or disabled individuals participating in approved events; modifies the special turkey hunting season age requirement from "16 years of age or younger" to "under 16 years of age"; establishes new fees for resident shellfish crews (with options for up to 10 harvesters at $200 and unlimited harvesters at $400); and provides more detailed regulations for shellfish harvesting permits. These modifications aim to clarify existing regulations, provide more inclusive opportunities for hunting and fishing, and update the state's legal framework for environmental and wildlife management. The bill ensures that all new provisions are subject to existing wildlife laws and regulations, with specific emphasis on maintaining proper licensing and permit requirements.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/69954