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HB 2043

Relating to use of dog and/or drones for tracking or locating mortally wounded deer, elk, turkey, wild boar or bear

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Adam Burkhammer and 1 co-sponsor

House Bill 2043 allows hunters in West Virginia to use leashed dogs or drones to track mortally wounded game, improving recovery methods and reducing animal suffering.

Chapter 115, Acts, Regular Session, 2025
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Bill Summary · HB 2043

Summary of House Bill 2043

Bill Number: HB 2043
Title: Relating to the use of dogs and/or drones for tracking or locating mortally wounded deer, elk, turkey, wild boar, or bear
Status: Chapter 115, Acts, Regular Session, 2025
Introduced: February 12, 2025
Classification: Bill
Subject: Natural Resources

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 2043 aims to amend existing wildlife management laws in West Virginia to allow hunters to utilize leashed dogs and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for tracking or locating mortally wounded game animals, including deer, elk, turkey, wild boar, and bear. The bill seeks to enhance hunting practices by providing hunters with additional tools to recover wounded animals effectively.

Key Provisions

  • Authorization of Tracking Methods:

    • Hunters who believe they have mortally wounded an animal may use one leashed dog or a UAV to track the animal.
    • A dog handler or licensed UAV operator may assist in this process, provided they maintain physical control of the dog.

  • Hunting Regulations:

    • The act of tracking with a dog or UAV is considered hunting, and all participants must adhere to applicable hunting laws.
    • Only the hunter who fired the initial shot may kill the mortally wounded animal, although a physically unable hunter may designate the handler to do so.

  • Licensing Requirements:

    • Dog handlers and UAV operators providing tracking services for profit must be licensed as outfitters or guides.
    • UAV operators must comply with FAA regulations and obtain necessary licenses if operating on property they do not own or lease.
    • The Director of the Division of Natural Resources will maintain and publish a list of licensed dog handlers and UAV operators annually by September 1.

Impact

  • Hunters: The bill provides hunters with more effective methods for recovering wounded game, potentially reducing animal suffering and waste.
  • Dog Handlers and UAV Operators: Individuals offering tracking services will need to obtain specific licenses, ensuring a regulated approach to these services.
  • Wildlife Management: The bill aims to improve wildlife management practices by ensuring that wounded animals are tracked and recovered efficiently.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was introduced on February 12, 2025, and underwent several readings and amendments before being passed by both the House and Senate.
  • It received approval from the Governor on April 8, 2025, and was enacted as law on July 30, 2025.

Conclusion

House Bill 2043 represents a significant update to West Virginia's hunting regulations, allowing for the use of modern tracking methods while ensuring that such practices are conducted under regulated conditions. This legislation aims to enhance the ethical recovery of game animals and improve overall hunting practices in the state.

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

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