Illinois Laws regarding Hunting and Fishing that are effective January 1, 2016

Illinois Laws regarding Hunting and Fishing that are effective January 1, 2016

Last year we brought you a list of 2014 laws that would become effective in 2015 .  Currently there are over 4,000 bills that have been introduced in the 99th General Assembly.  Here are the pieces of legislation that were signed by Governor Bruce Rauner and will become effective January 1, 2016.

HB 352 - WILDLIFE-BOBCAT HUNTING

Amends the Wildlife Code. Removes the prohibition on taking bobcats in the State. Provides that it shall be unlawful for any person to trap or to hunt bobcats with gun, dog, dog and gun, or bow and arrow, except during the open season which will be set annually by the Director of Natural Resources between 12:01 a.m., November 1 to 12:00 midnight, February 15, both inclusive. Provides that the season limit for bobcat shall not exceed one bobcat per permit. Provides that the pelts of bobcats shall be tagged in accordance with federal regulations and the Department of Natural Resources may require harvest registration and set forth procedures, fees for registration, and the process of tagging pelts in administrative rules. Provides that bobcats may be taken during the open season by use of a small light which is worn on the body or hand-held by a person on foot and not in any vehicle.

HB 3240 - RIVERS LAKES STREAMS-DNR FINE.Amends the Rivers, Lakes, and Streams Act. Provides that any person who neglects, refuses or fails to obey any lawful order made by the Department of Natural Resources and to carry the same into effect in accordance with such order is liable for a fine of not less than $100 nor more than $10,000 (rather than $1,000) to be recovered in a civil action in the name of the People of the State of Illinois in any circuit court.

HB 3234 - CROSSBOW HUNTING-COYOTESAmends the Wildlife Code. Provides that any person may use a crossbow to take coyotes during any coyote season. Effective immediately.

SB 125 -ANIMALS-EXTREME HEAT OR COLD
Amends the Humane Care for Animals Act. Provides that no owner of a dog or cat may expose the dog or cat in a manner that places the dog or cat in a life-threatening situation for a prolonged period of time in extreme heat or cold conditions. Provides that the a violation of this provision is a Class A misdemeanor.