HB2130 - 472R - House Bill Summary

House of Representatives

HB 2130

game and fish; hunter harassment

Sponsors: Representatives Weiers JP, Mason, Nelson, Weiers J et al

DP	Committee on Natural Resources and Agriculture
dpa	Caucus and COW
x	As Transmitted to the Governor

HB 2130 revises statute concerning intentional interference of lawful hunting activities.

History

The Arizona Game and Fish Commission (Commission) oversees and manages hunting and fishing activities in the state. Among other duties, the Commission establishes guidelines for the taking of wildlife, including when, where, and in what manner wildlife may lawfully be taken. The Commission also maintains the authority to enforce these regulations and to prosecute violators.

Currently, intentionally interfering with a lawful hunt is classified as a class 2 misdemeanor, incurring up to 4 months of jail time and subject to fines and penalties. In addition, entering designated hunting areas on state lands with intent to interfere qualifies as a class 3 misdemeanor. This incurs up to 30 days of jail plus fines and penalties.

Provisions

· Strikes the authority for the Game and Fish Commission to designate hunting areas by rule if a significant interference of a hunt is likely to occur.

· Lists eight actions which qualify as unlawful interference, disruption, or prevention of a hunt. These violations incur a class 2 misdemeanor charge. The violations include:

· Harassing, driving, or disturbing wildlife

· Blocking, obstructing, or impeding a hunter

· Erecting barriers without permission of the landowner or lessee

· Making physical contact with a hunter without permission

· Theft, vandalism, or destruction of real or personal property

· Disturbing hunting equipment

· Making noises, gestures, or using outside stimuli to disrupt either hunter or wildlife

· Interjecting oneself into the line of fire

· Prohibits interference on public or private lands or waters. Currently, the charge of entering with intent to interfere applies only to state lands or state trust lands.

· Exempts landowners engaged in ranching or agricultural operations from charges of unlawful interference.

· Makes technical changes.

· ---------- DOCUMENT FOOTER ---------

· Forty-seventh Legislature Analyst Initials _______