#HB1219, definition of wildlife for purposes of regulation by fish & game #nhhouse

HB 1219, relative to the definition of wildlife for purposes of regulation by the fish and game department.  MAJORITY:  INEXPEDIENT TO LEGISLATE.  MINORITY:  OUGHT TO PASS.

Rep. David H Watters for the Majority of  Fish and Game and Marine Resources:  This bill would remove the term wildlife from the regulation of certain livestock in agricultural operations.  It would have the effect of removing regulatory authority of the fish and game department over such animals as elk and red deer.  The department and the fish and game commission believe this is a first step towards legalizing the taking of game in propagation facilities which could promote importation of TB and chronic waste disease and negatively effect public perception regarding fair chase.  The bill also would repeal licensing requirements for venison wholesalers and repeal recordkeeping and documentation of venison sale.  For these reasons the committee opposed the bill. Vote 12-2.      

Rep. Richard Okerman for the Minority of  Fish and Game and Marine Resources:  The minority of the committee felt that this proposal should pass.  The “problems” that were stated as objections we could already have as one of the largest game preserve in the US is located in New Hampshire Corburn Park and is a “private” facility that has been here since the late 1800’s.  This bill does not create any new laws only recognizes definition of wildlife between fish and game agency and New Hampshire department of agriculture as well as the endangered species act.  This proposal could help credit some jobs in agriculture as well as generate some income on the farm.