HB 5531
Relating to leashed dogs and unmanned aerial vehicles for tracking or locating mortally wounded deer, elk, turkey, wild boar or bear
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Sign in to take action- Introduced
- Passed House of Delegates
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill allows hunters in West Virginia to use leashed dogs or unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to track and locate mortally wounded deer, elk, turkey, wild boar, or bear. Hunters must maintain physical control of the dog and comply with all existing hunting laws and rules. Additionally, it outlines requirements for dog handlers and UAV operators, including licensing and regulations regarding dispatching the animal to prevent unnecessary suffering, and clarifies that only the original hunter can ultimately kill the animal.
Key provisions
- Hunters may use leashed dogs or UAVs to track mortally wounded game.
- The hunter must maintain physical control of the leashed dog.
- Dog handlers and UAV operators must be licensed as outfitters or guides.
- UAV operators must comply with FAA Part 107 regulations.
- Licensed outfitters and guides can dispatch mortally wounded game under specific circumstances.
- Dispatching of the animal counts toward the hunter's bag limit.
- Handlers can dispatch the animal to prevent suffering.
- Licensed outfitters and guides must provide a public list of licensed tracking service providers.
Who is affected
- Hunters
- Dog handlers
- Unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) operators
- Outfitters and guides
- The West Virginia Department of Natural Resources
Notable changes
- Allows the use of UAVs for tracking wounded game.
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