Bill > HB1314

This bill enables minors under 18 years of age who are residents of New Hampshire to apply for a special freshwater fishing license without paying a fee. The bill amends the existing state law (RSA 214) by adding a new section that allows young residents to obtain a fishing license upon presenting proof of their age. The license will be marked in a specific manner designated by the executive director of fish and game, and it will come with the same restrictions as other fishing licenses. According to the fiscal note, this change will result in a significant reduction of approximately $235,000 per year in revenue for the Fish and Game Fund and Fisheries Habitat Management Account, which previously collected fees from 16- and 17-year-old licensees. The Fish and Game Department anticipates potential additional costs of $10,000 to $30,000 annually due to license production and processing, with a one-time new license development fee in the first year. The bill will take effect 60 days after its passage, aiming to make fishing more accessible to young residents by removing the financial barrier of obtaining a license.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://gc.nh.gov/bill_Status/billinfo.aspx?id=2166&inflect=2