Bill > H8451

This bill establishes a process for the town of New Shoreham, located on Block Island, to request a temporary exemption from certain statewide rules governing deer hunting and management, allowing them to address unique challenges like overpopulation that contribute to tick-borne illnesses and ecological damage. The town council would submit a detailed "island deer management plan" to the Director of the Department of Environmental Management (DEM), outlining specific proposed changes to hunting seasons, methods, and limits, along with public safety measures and population targets. The Director would review the plan, hold a public hearing, and then approve, deny, or approve with modifications the exemption, which could last up to two years. If approved, New Shoreham could enact local ordinances to implement the plan, but state enforcement authority would remain, and the town would be responsible for reporting on the plan's progress and any incidents, with the Director retaining the power to modify or revoke the exemption if necessary.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

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