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Bill

HB 2482

To allow youth and handicapped hunters to harvest a buck deer or doe during youth/handicapped special hunts

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Jordan Bridges and 9 co-sponsors

House Bill 2482 allows youth and disabled hunters to harvest a buck or doe during special hunts, promoting inclusivity and engagement in outdoor activities.

To House Agriculture, Commerce and Tourism
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Bill Summary · HB 2482

Summary of House Bill 2482

Bill Number: HB 2482
Title: To allow youth and handicapped hunters to harvest a buck deer or doe during youth/handicapped special hunts
Status: To House Agriculture, Commerce and Tourism
Introduced: February 3, 2025
Classification: Bill
Subject: Natural Resources

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 2482 aims to enhance hunting opportunities for youth and individuals with disabilities by allowing them to harvest either a buck deer or a doe during designated special hunting seasons. This initiative is designed to promote inclusivity in hunting activities and encourage participation among younger and handicapped hunters.

Key Provisions

  • Eligibility: The bill specifically targets youth hunters and those holding a Class Q special hunting permit.
  • Hunting Seasons: It permits these groups to take one antlered deer during the "Special Youth Deer Season," as established by the Natural Resources Commission.
  • Bag Limit: Any antlered deer harvested during this special season will count toward the regular firearms deer hunting season bag limit.
  • Exclusions: Holders of a Class XS license are not permitted to take an antlered deer under this provision.

Impact

  • Target Groups: The bill primarily affects youth hunters and individuals with disabilities who wish to participate in deer hunting. By expanding their hunting privileges, the bill aims to foster a more inclusive environment for these groups.
  • Wildlife Management: The legislation is expected to have implications for wildlife management and conservation efforts, as it may influence deer population dynamics during hunting seasons.

Procedural Timeline

  • February 3, 2025: Bill filed with the Clerk by Rep. Stephanie A. Kifowit.
  • February 4, 2025: First reading and referred to the Rules Committee.
  • February 24, 2025: Sent to the House Agriculture, Commerce and Tourism Committee.
  • March 4, 2025: Assigned to Appropriations-Pensions & Personnel Committee.
  • March 12, 2025: Passed with a "Do Pass" recommendation from the Appropriations-Pensions & Personnel Committee (Vote: 7-2-0).
  • March 26, 2025: Second reading and held on the calendar for short debate.
  • April 11, 2025: Re-referred to the Rules Committee under Rule 19(a).

Conclusion

House Bill 2482 represents a significant step toward enhancing hunting opportunities for youth and handicapped individuals in Illinois. By allowing these groups to harvest deer during special hunts, the bill seeks to promote inclusivity and engagement in outdoor activities, while also considering the management of deer populations. The bill is currently under review by the House Agriculture, Commerce and Tourism Committee.

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

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