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HB 1511

Natural Resources - Wildlife Damage Prevention and Reimbursement Fund - Establishment

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Nick Allen and 4 co-sponsors

Maryland establishes fund to reimburse property owners and farmers for wildlife-caused losses while maintaining wildlife protections.

Hearing 3/12 at 1:00 p.m.
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Bill Summary · HB 1511

Legislative bill overview

HB 1511 establishes a Wildlife Damage Prevention and Reimbursement Fund in Maryland to compensate property owners and agricultural operators for losses caused by wildlife damage. The bill creates a dedicated funding mechanism to address conflicts between wildlife conservation and private property protection.

Why is this important

Wildlife damage—particularly from deer, geese, and other wildlife—costs Maryland property owners and farmers thousands of dollars annually in crop destruction, property damage, and vehicle collisions. This bill attempts to formalize financial support for these losses, which traditionally fall entirely on private parties, while maintaining wildlife populations protected under state law.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding source and adequacy: The bill's funding mechanism is unclear; if underfunded, the reimbursement process could become slow or offer only partial compensation, limiting its practical benefit
  • Eligibility criteria: Determining which damages qualify and which property owners/operators can claim reimbursement will be contentious—too restrictive and it won't help those harmed, too loose and costs could escalate unpredictably
  • Wildlife management philosophy: Some conservationists may view reimbursement as an alternative to wildlife population controls, while agricultural interests may see it as insufficient without also expanding hunting seasons or removal programs

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

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