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SB 471

Hunting dogs; releasing on state or local roadway, hunting, fishing, and trapping special license.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Dave Marsden

Bill prohibits hunters from releasing hunting dogs onto state and local roadways during licensed hunting activities to improve public road safety.

Passed by indefinitely in Agriculture, Conservation and Natural Resources (10-Y 4-N)
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Bill Summary · SB 471

Legislative bill overview

SB 471 would prohibit hunters from releasing hunting dogs onto state or local roadways while hunting, fishing, or trapping. The bill appears to establish restrictions on where hunting dogs can be deployed during licensed hunting activities on public roads.

Why is this important

Hunting dogs running loose on roadways create public safety hazards for drivers and pedestrians, and can result in dog injuries or deaths from vehicle strikes. This addresses a practical conflict between hunting traditions and road safety in areas where hunting and public thoroughfares coexist.

Potential points of contention

  • Rural vs. urban perspectives: Rural hunters may view this as an unnecessary restriction on traditional hunting practices, while road safety advocates see it as essential protection
  • Enforcement challenges: Determining which roads qualify as "state or local" and monitoring compliance in remote hunting areas could prove difficult
  • Alternative hunting methods: The restriction could limit certain hunting dog breeds or techniques that traditionally rely on road corridor access
  • Scope ambiguity: Unclear whether the bill applies to all hunting activities or specific game types, and what constitutes "releasing" versus dogs naturally ranging during hunts

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

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