Bill > S0107

This bill proposes a mechanism for reimbursing the Vermont Department of Fish and Wildlife for revenue lost when the General Assembly mandates free hunting, fishing, trapping, combination, or lifetime licenses after July 1, 2025. Specifically, when such free licenses are issued, the Department of Fish and Wildlife will be compensated an amount equal to the full fee that would have been collected for each license. The Commissioner of Fish and Wildlife is required to maintain detailed accounting of these lost revenues and submit an annual report to the Department of Finance and Management by January 15th, detailing the previous calendar year's lost revenue. Within 60 days of receiving this report, the Commissioner of Finance and Management must transfer the corresponding amount from the General Fund into the Fish and Wildlife Fund to reimburse the department. This bill ensures that the Department of Fish and Wildlife is not financially disadvantaged when required to issue free licenses, thereby protecting its operational funding. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://legislature.vermont.gov/bill/status/2026/S.107