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SF 114

A bill for an act relating to the baiting of deer on public or private property and providing penalties.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Dawn Driscoll

SF 114 regulates deer baiting on public and private land, ensuring fair hunting practices and sustainable deer management, with penalties for violations.

Subcommittee recommends amendment and passage.
#deer #food #hunting #misdemeanors #property #wildlife
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Bill Summary · SF 114

Summary of SF 114: Baiting of Deer Legislation

Bill Number: SF 114
Introduced On: January 23, 2025
Current Status: Subcommittee recommends amendment and passage
Subject Areas: Deer, Food, Hunting, Misdemeanors, Property, Wildlife

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of SF 114 is to regulate the baiting of deer on both public and private property. The bill aims to establish clear guidelines regarding the use of bait to attract deer, thereby addressing concerns related to wildlife management and fair hunting practices. It seeks to prevent interference with lawful hunting activities and ensure that deer populations are managed sustainably.

Key Provisions

  1. Baiting Restrictions:

    • Hunting, taking, or attempting to take deer is prohibited within 200 yards of a permanently baited area until all contaminated soil is removed or there is no evidence of deer being artificially attracted to the area.

  2. Definition of Baited Areas:

    • Areas where salt, minerals, or other feed that can leach into the soil are placed for agricultural purposes are not considered baited areas.

  3. Intentional Interference:

    • Establishing a baited area or distributing feed with the intent to disrupt another person's hunting activities is prohibited. This constitutes intentional interference with lawful hunting.

  4. Penalties:

    • Violations are categorized as:
      • Simple Misdemeanor for a first offense: Up to 30 days confinement and a fine between $105 and $855.
      • Serious Misdemeanor for subsequent offenses: Up to one year confinement and a fine between $430 and $2,560.

  5. Definition of Feed:

    • "Feed" includes materials capable of attracting wildlife, such as grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts, hay, and mineral blocks. However, it excludes food placed during normal agricultural activities.

Affected Parties

  • Hunters: The bill directly impacts hunters by regulating where and how they can bait deer, aiming to create a fair hunting environment.
  • Landowners: Both public and private landowners will need to comply with the new regulations regarding baiting practices on their properties.
  • Wildlife Management Authorities: The bill may affect how wildlife management agencies enforce hunting regulations and manage deer populations.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was introduced and referred to the Natural Resources and Environment committee on January 23, 2025.
  • A subcommittee meeting was held on February 5, 2025, with a recommendation for amendment and passage made on February 6, 2025.

This summary provides an overview of SF 114, highlighting its intent, key provisions, and the potential impact on stakeholders involved in deer hunting and wildlife management.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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