Bill > HB1827

This bill amends the Arkansas Hunting Heritage Protection Act by updating definitions and regulations related to commission-managed lands and hunting access. The bill redefines key terms like "commission-leased lands" and "commission-owned lands", and modifies provisions regarding recreational hunting on these lands. Specifically, the bill requires the Arkansas State Game and Fish Commission to maintain the same level of hunting land acreage as of January 1, 2025, and mandates that the commission find replacement hunting land if any existing hunting areas are closed. The commission must submit an annual report by July 1st detailing the number of acres closed to and opened for recreational hunting during the previous fiscal year. The bill also clarifies that the commission is not required to prioritize hunting over other land management needs, and it does not prevent private landowners from making legal decisions about access to their lands. The changes aim to preserve hunting opportunities while providing flexibility for land management and conservation efforts.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://arkleg.state.ar.us/Bills/Detail?id=hb1827&ddBienniumSession=2025%2F2025R