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Bill

HB 1353

An Act amending Title 34 (Game) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in Pennsylvania Game Commission, further providing for Game Commission officers and employees; and, in enforcement, further providing for powers and duties of enforcement officers.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Bud Cook and 9 co-sponsors

HB 1353 modifies Pennsylvania Game Commission officer roles and enforcement authority, though specific changes require full bill text review for substantive analysis.

Referred to Game & Fisheries
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Bill Summary · HB 1353

Legislative bill overview

HB 1353 amends Pennsylvania's Game Commission statutes to modify provisions governing Game Commission officers and employees, as well as enforcement officers' powers and duties. The bill was introduced in April 2025 and is currently under review by the Game & Fisheries Committee. Specific amendments are not detailed in the available information, making precise analysis of changes difficult without the full bill text.

Why is this important

Game Commission enforcement directly affects hunting and fishing regulations, wildlife management, and public access to outdoor recreation across Pennsylvania. Changes to officer powers and employee provisions can influence how effectively the agency operates, enforcement mechanisms for conservation laws, and the scope of authority wielded by field personnel. These modifications may also affect operational costs and staffing structures.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of enforcement authority: Expanding or restricting officer powers (search, seizure, questioning authority) raises civil liberties questions versus enforcement effectiveness concerns
  • Employee classification and compensation: Changes to employment terms, benefits, or job classifications could affect recruitment/retention or state budget allocations
  • Regulatory overreach concerns: Modifications may face opposition from hunting/fishing advocates if they perceive increased restrictions, or from conservation groups if enforcement capacity is reduced

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

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