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HB 142

AN ACT relating to depredating wildlife and declaring an emergency.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Ryan Bivens and 5 co-sponsors

Kentucky legislature passes emergency wildlife depredation management bill granting authority to control damaging animals threatening livestock, crops, and property.

delivered to Secretary of State (Acts Ch. 174)
#agriculture #effectivedates #emergency #fishandwildlife #huntingandfishing #landuse #landlordandtenant #stateagencies
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 142

Legislative bill overview

HB 142 addresses the management and control of wildlife that causes damage to property, livestock, or poses public safety threats in Kentucky. The bill passed the Senate unanimously (38-0) and has been sent to the House for concurrence on a committee substitute version. The emergency declaration suggests the legislation addresses an urgent wildlife management concern.

Why is this important

Wildlife depredation—damage caused by animals like deer, coyotes, or bears—costs Kentucky landowners and farmers significant money annually through crop destruction, livestock predation, and property damage. Clear statutory authority and procedures for managing problem wildlife help balance wildlife conservation with property rights and agricultural protection.

Potential points of contention

  • Regulatory scope: Ambiguity over which wildlife species qualify for depredation control and under what circumstances may create enforcement inconsistencies or conflicts between wildlife conservation goals and property protection.
  • Private vs. public lands: Disputes may arise regarding different rules for controlling wildlife on private property versus public lands, affecting landowner autonomy.
  • Due process and oversight: The extent of administrative oversight, permit requirements, and appeal processes for depredation control decisions could be contentious depending on implementation details not visible in the bill summary.

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

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