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Bill > HB767


KY HB767

KY HB767
AN ACT relating to fish and wildlife law enforcement.


summary

Introduced
02/19/2025
In Committee
02/27/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
03/28/2025

Introduced Session

2025 Regular Session

Bill Summary

Amend KRS 15.519 to make game wardens employed by the Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources subject to the same requirements for entering or accessing private open land as other law enforcement officers; amend KRS 150.090 to conform; amend KRS 235.310 to make boating enforcement officers employed by the Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources subject to the same requirements for entering or accessing private open land as other law enforcement officers.

AI Summary

This bill amends Kentucky laws to standardize the rules for game wardens and boating enforcement officers entering private open land, ensuring they follow the same protocols as other law enforcement officers. Specifically, these wildlife enforcement officers will now be required to obtain permission from landowners, have a search warrant, or meet specific exceptions (such as responding to an emergency or having probable cause) before entering private open land. The bill removes previous provisions that gave game wardens broader, almost unrestricted access to private lands and instead requires them to follow the same procedural constraints as other peace officers. Additionally, the bill modifies language around notification requirements, specifying that officers must immediately notify landowners when entering private property, unless responding to an urgent situation, and must activate body-worn cameras in accordance with their agency's policies. This legislation aims to balance law enforcement needs with property owners' rights by creating more consistent and transparent guidelines for accessing private land during investigations or enforcement activities.

Committee Categories

Business and Industry

Sponsors (2)

Last Action

to Tourism & Outdoor Recreation (H) (on 02/27/2025)

bill text


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