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SB 303

An Act amending Title 34 (Game) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions; in hunting and furtaking, further providing for unlawful devices and methods and for restrictions on recreational spotlighting; in special licenses and permits, providing for game or wildlife recovery permits; and imposing penalties.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Jarrett Coleman

Pennsylvania bill restricts night hunting spotlighting and creates wildlife recovery permits while modifying game law definitions and penalties.

Referred to Game & Fisheries
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 303

Legislative bill overview

SB 303 amends Pennsylvania's hunting and wildlife laws to modify definitions, restrict certain hunting methods (particularly recreational spotlighting), and create a new "game or wildlife recovery permit" system. The bill also adjusts penalties associated with these violations.

Why is this important

Spotlighting—using artificial light to locate and hunt game at night—is controversial because it can give hunters unfair advantages and harm wildlife behavior patterns. New permit systems for wildlife recovery could either improve wildlife management or create additional regulatory burdens depending on implementation details. These changes directly affect thousands of Pennsylvania hunters and the state's wildlife population management.

Potential points of contention

  • Spotlighting restrictions: Hunters who use spotlighting (legal in some contexts) may face tighter limitations, while conservation advocates may argue restrictions don't go far enough to protect nocturnal wildlife
  • Permit system ambiguity: The bill's language on "game or wildlife recovery permits" is vague without seeing the actual statutory text—unclear what triggers permit requirements, costs, or approval timelines
  • Penalty levels: Without knowing specific penalty increases, stakeholders disagree on whether consequences are proportionate or excessive deterrents

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

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