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SB 80

Eliminating the authority of the secretary of wildlife and parks to issue nonresident landowner deer permits.

2025-2026 Regular Session

Kansas SB 80 eliminates the wildlife secretary's authority to issue deer permits to nonresident landowners, restricting hunting access for out-of-state property owners and potentially reducing state revenue.

Died in Committee
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Bill Summary · SB 80

Legislative bill overview

SB 80 would remove the Secretary of Wildlife and Parks' authority to issue deer hunting permits to nonresident landowners in Kansas. Currently, the secretary has discretion to grant these permits; this bill would eliminate that power entirely, likely preventing out-of-state property owners from obtaining deer permits regardless of circumstances.

Why is this important

This change affects hunting access and revenue for both the state wildlife agency and out-of-state property owners who hunt on Kansas land. It also reflects broader tensions between local hunting preferences, wildlife management flexibility, and out-of-state interests in Kansas's natural resources.

Potential points of contention

  • Revenue impact: Nonresident permits generate licensing fees that fund wildlife management; eliminating this revenue source could affect conservation programs and habitat management
  • Property rights: Out-of-state landowners argue they should have hunting rights on property they own; supporters counter that hunting is a privilege tied to state residency
  • Wildlife management flexibility: Removing the secretary's discretion may limit adaptive management strategies that balance wildlife populations with hunting opportunities
  • Fairness to nonresident landowners: The bill creates a categorical ban rather than case-by-case evaluation, which some may view as arbitrary

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

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