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HB 2337

Relating to authorizing the Division of Natural Resources to promulgate a legislative rule relating to prohibitions when hunting and trapping

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Doug Smith

House Bill 2337 empowers West Virginia's Division of Natural Resources to set rules prohibiting certain hunting and trapping practices, enhancing wildlife protection and conservation.

To House Government Organization
#legislature--rulemaking
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Bill Summary · HB 2337

Summary of House Bill 2337

Bill Information

  • Bill Number: HB 2337
  • Title: Relating to authorizing the Division of Natural Resources to promulgate a legislative rule relating to prohibitions when hunting and trapping
  • Status: To House Government Organization
  • Introduced: February 12, 2025
  • Classification: Bill
  • Subject: Legislature--Rule Making

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 2337 aims to authorize the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (DNR) to establish a legislative rule concerning specific prohibitions related to hunting and trapping activities. The bill seeks to formalize regulations that govern these activities to ensure they align with state conservation efforts and wildlife management practices.

Key Provisions

  • Authorization of Rule Promulgation: The bill specifically authorizes the DNR to promulgate a legislative rule that outlines prohibitions when hunting and trapping. This rule is intended to enhance wildlife protection and ensure sustainable hunting practices.
  • Reference to Previous Legislative Actions: The bill references a legislative rule that was filed in the State Register on September 3, 2024, and subsequently modified to address concerns raised by the Legislative Rule-Making Review Committee. The modified rule was refiled on October 3, 2024.
  • Regulatory Framework: The rule in question is identified as "58 CSR 47," which pertains to the prohibitions when hunting and trapping.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Hunters and Trappers: Individuals engaged in hunting and trapping activities in West Virginia will be directly impacted by the new regulations established under this bill. Compliance with the prohibitions set forth by the DNR will be mandatory.
  • Wildlife and Conservation Efforts: The bill is also significant for wildlife conservation initiatives, as it aims to protect various species and habitats from potential harm caused by unregulated hunting and trapping practices.

Procedural Aspects

  • Legislative Timeline:
    • February 12, 2025: The bill was filed for introduction and referred to the House Committee on Government Organization on the same day.
    • The legislative process will continue as the bill is reviewed and discussed within the committee before potentially moving to the full House for consideration.

Conclusion

House Bill 2337 represents a proactive step by the West Virginia Legislature to regulate hunting and trapping practices through the establishment of specific prohibitions. By empowering the Division of Natural Resources to create these rules, the bill aims to balance recreational activities with the need for wildlife conservation and sustainable management of natural resources.

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

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