Bill > HB1588

This bill modifies Pennsylvania's game and wildlife laws regarding the revocation, suspension, or denial of hunting and furtaking licenses. The key changes transfer the authority to revoke hunting licenses from the wildlife commission to magisterial district judges or courts with jurisdiction. Under the new provisions, a license can be revoked or suspended if the holder is convicted of or charged with certain offenses, such as hunting under the influence of alcohol, violating safety zones, causing property damage, or endangering human beings. For a first offense, a person may be denied hunting privileges for up to three years, and for a second or subsequent offense, up to five years. Importantly, if charges brought under the new provisions are dropped, dismissed, or result in a not guilty verdict, the person's license or hunting privileges must be immediately restored. The bill also removes the wildlife commission's previous regulatory power to establish specific procedures for license revocation. These changes will apply to hunting privilege revocations occurring on or after the bill's effective date, which is 60 days after passage.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=H&type=B&bn=1588