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H 262

FISH AND GAME – Amends existing law to provide for deer and elk tag allocations.

68th Legislature, 1st Regular Session (2025)

House Bill 262 reserves up to 3,875 deer and 3,200 elk tags for outfitted hunters in Idaho, enhancing their access while ensuring fair hunting opportunities.

Reported Printed and Referred to Resources & Conservation
#animals #fishandgame #hunting #naturalresources #wildlife
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Bill Summary · H 262

Summary of House Bill 262 (H 262)

Overview

House Bill 262, introduced on February 18, 2025, aims to amend existing laws regarding the allocation of deer and elk tags in Idaho. The bill focuses on establishing a structured allocation system that reserves a portion of nonresident tags specifically for outfitted hunters.

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of H 262 is to ensure that outfitted hunters have access to a designated number of nonresident deer and elk tags. This is intended to support the outfitting industry and promote regulated hunting practices while maintaining a fair distribution of hunting opportunities among all hunters.

Key Provisions

  • Tag Allocation for Outfitted Hunters:

    • The bill mandates that when the Idaho Fish and Game Commission sets limits on nonresident deer and elk tags, it must reserve a maximum of 3,875 nonresident deer tags and 3,200 nonresident elk tags, or 25% of the total nonresident tag limit, whichever is greater, specifically for outfitted hunters.
    • These tags will be allocated in capped, limited, controlled, and future restricted hunts.

  • Recalculation of Allocations:

    • The bill requires the commission to recalculate outfitter allocations every two years based on historical tag usage data from the previous two years.

  • Sales Process:

    • Outfitted tags must be sold to individuals who have entered into a signed agreement with a licensed outfitter.
    • If any reserved tags remain unsold by July 15, they may be made available to the general public.

  • Administrative Fees:

    • An administrative fee of $5 will be charged for each outfitted big game tag sold, and a $20 fee for each tag submitted for verification.

Impact

  • Who is Affected:

    • The bill primarily impacts nonresident hunters who utilize outfitting services, as well as licensed outfitters in Idaho. It aims to enhance their hunting opportunities while ensuring a structured allocation process.
    • The general public may also be affected if reserved tags are not sold and subsequently released for general sale.

  • Fiscal Impact:

    • According to the fiscal note, the bill is expected to have no fiscal impact on the general fund or local governments, as it does not alter major government operations.

Legislative Process

  • Current Status:
    • As of February 19, 2025, H 262 has been reported printed and referred to the Resources & Conservation Committee for further consideration.

Conclusion

House Bill 262 seeks to create a more equitable system for allocating deer and elk tags in Idaho, particularly benefiting outfitted hunters while maintaining regulatory oversight. The structured approach to tag allocation and the emphasis on outfitter agreements reflect an effort to balance the interests of various hunting stakeholders in the state.

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

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