IDNR Advisory Board Violates Open Meetings Act

NRAB Board Meeting

Today political parties differ on nearly every issue, but there is one thing that is more American than anything. It is the idea that citizens can get involved in their government. And while these political differences have divided our country, we have to remember to hold our representatives and those that work on behalf of the people accountable for their actions or lack of, regardless of political party.

As many of you know, I have been involved with the IDNR since Director Miller under Governor Quinn and after attending these meetings over several years I have seen a lack of transparency and violations of the Open Meetings Act. This has been an ongoing issue with this board. According to the minutes from January 2018, George Sisk, Legal Counsel for DNR stated when discussing another possible Open Meetings Act violtion that, “The Open Meeting Act’s main purpose is to provide transparency when it comes to governmental operations and we must error on the side of caution when it comes to complying with OMA.”

I am by no means, a lawyer, a scholar, or a politician, I am a citizen of Illinois, a hunter, angler and outdoor enthusiasts. I started Capitol Outdoors to make sure that people like you had the insight and transparency of their government.

I am here to hold this board accountable for what I believe is a continued violation of the Open Meetings Act.

According to Section 2.02 (a) of the Open Meetings Act:

An agenda for each regular meeting shall be posted at the principal office of the public body and at the location where the meeting is to be held at least 48 hours in advance of the holding of the meeting. A public body that has a website that the full-time staff of the public body maintains shall also post on its website the agenda of any regular meetings of the governing body of that public body.

As of 7:47 am this morning the NRAB website was not updated with today’s agenda. I believe this is a clear violation of the Open Meetings Act. This is not the first time that this has happened and as a member of the public how am I supposed to prepare to educate my audience of issues pertaining to this quarter’s meeting when I have no idea what is on the agenda. And in all the meetings I have attended, I have never once received a printed copy of the agenda so this time wouldn’t be any different.

Another issue related to the Open Meetings act are the minutes.

The only record that the general public has been able to see related to the activity of this advisory board over the last year has been the recordings and accounts by Capitol Outdoors. As you can see from the image above, the last minutes posted were from July 30, 2018.

According to Section 2.06 (b) of the Open Meetings Act:

The minutes of meetings open to the public shall be available for public inspection within 10 days after the approval of such minutes by the public body. Beginning July 1, 2006, at the time it complies with the other requirements of this subsection, a public body that has a website that the full-time staff of the public body maintains shall post the minutes of a regular meeting of its governing body open to the public on the public body's website within 10 days after the approval of the minutes by the public body.

I advise this board to get their head out of the gutter, and start holding themselves accountable.  We must ask the question, is the IDNR and this board Communicating, Collaborating and Connecting with the public or is it business as usual?

Tune in to today’s NRAB meeting via our FB page unfortunately we don't know what will be discussed due to lack of agenda.

If you are unfamiliar with NRAB you can read a previous article of ours explaining the purpose of the board.

Over 150,000 Harvested Deer during 2018-2019 Seasons

That's a wrap for the 2018 - 2019 deer season.  Below you'll see the preliminary harvest numbers and information provided by the IDNR.  I would like to thank all those that contributed their pictures of their harvest.  

Illinois 2018-19 Deer Hunting Seasons Result in Preliminary Harvest of 151,577 Deer

SPRINGFIELD, IL – Hunters in Illinois harvested a preliminary total of 151,577 deer during all 2018-19 archery and firearm seasons, which concluded on Jan. 20. The total preliminary deer harvest for all seasons compares with a total harvest for all seasons of 147,695 deer in 2017-18.

During the 2018-19 deer seasons, hunters took 45 percent does and 55 percent males.

Hunters Harvest A Total of 80,896 Deer During the 2018 Illinois Firearm Season

State Representative Jerry Costello II with a nice buck

Firearm deer season has come to an end.  Muzzleloader only is this coming weekend.  If you harvest a deer this weekend, send in your photos to capitoloutdoors@gmail.com and you could be featured in next week's numbers.

2018 Black Friday Hunting, Fishing and Outdoor Ads

Everyone loves a good deal, especially when it comes to hunting and fishing gear! We are always keeping an eye out for those special prices! Are you looking for a new addition to your tournament tackle, interested in a new graph or perhaps you are looking for that new shotgun? Check out the deals in the stores below!  We have worked with many of these companies, they are great people with exceptional products for those who love the outdoors. Is there a store that you know offers some great deals.  Email us and let us know about the deal.

Are you a Bass Fisherman looking to up your spinnerbait game?  

Make spinnerbaits cool again with Angler Assets! Be sure and check out the Double Willow at LandBigFish.com.  Available in a variety of proven colors and incorporating unique plazma skirt material, the Angler Assets Plazma Series Spinnerbaits give the fish a new look and the angler the competitive edge.

You can also find Angler Assets at Scheels and Tackle Warehouse. 

Give yourself the edge on the water with Basset Baits plastics and other tackle. 

Check out the Phantom Craw. It is an all around bait, trailer, texas rig, wobbleheads.  It is a must have in your arsenal.

Proven Big Bass Catcher. 

Variety of colors available. Bait Shown in Milky Way.

For the Crappie and Ice Fishing Enthusiast, check out Brushpile Jigs, where you'll find an assortment of plastics for all your pan fishing needs. 

Brushpile plastics help you catch more fish with their UV enhancement on all their lures.

Many options available for purchase. 

Do you worry about your fish staying alive in your live well? You need the New Pro Product VT-2 System. 

A livewell equipped with the V-T2 Livewell Ventilation System allows you to weigh-in with confidence, avoid penalties and dramatically reduce the risk of stress-delayed-mortality after the release.

This product really helped keep our fish alive this summer. 

There is nothing like fishing in some of the shadows of some of Chicago's biggest skyscrapers.  Be sure and check out Pat Harrison Outdoors. 

Pat Harrison is a full-time licensed fishing guide, United States Coast Guard licensed charter captain, and influential angler from Northern Illinois. A resident of Northwest Chicago suburb of Park Ridge, Harrison has over 38 years worth of angling experience, with 9 seasons of guiding under his belt. After taking courses and undergoing certification, Pat became a USCG certified captain 3 years ago.

10% off on 1/2 day trip and 15% off on full day trip until Christmas

Let Captain Pat know that Capitol Outdoors sent ya!

patharrisonoutdoors.com

Gear up for next year with a custom designed jersey from Sublime Wear.  Have an Ugly Christmas Sweater Party to go to? Get your ugly sweater from Sublime as well! 

They are a dye sublimation company that manufactures their product from start to finish; from processing the order, to design, printing, pressing sewing and shipping, it is all done right there. 

Sublime Wear Custom Jersey

Do you want to start capturing video of your fishing trips?  Let Yolotek Power Your Adventures this year! 

Voted Best New Product at the Bassmaster Classic and Best in Show at ICast the Powerstick is a must-have product! Check out their many awesome products today. 

Use promo code: CAPITOLOUTDOORS for free shipping! 

Powering Your Adventures: Yolotek.com

Below you can find links to come of the bigger outdoor stores!  Be sure and check with your local bait shops and hunting stores.  Support your local businesses! 

Academy Sports

Bass Pro/Cabelas

Dicks Sporting Goods

Gander Outdoors

Farm and Home 

Land Big Fish

Presley's 

Tackle Warehouse

Scheels

Ad won't be released until Nov. 22nd

Happy Sale Hunting! 

Emiquon Preserve Waterfowl Blind Drawing Applications Due October 3rd

Emiquon Nature Preserve - Photo by: Capitol Outdoors

This is a great opportunity for you to hunt Emiquon Nature Preserve.  We have taken the opportunity and have had the luck of hunting at this preserve.  Application Date is fast approaching!  It may be hot outside right now, but hunting season is just around the corner.  The cool mornings and crisp air with be here before you know it.  You'll be watching your dog retrieve those downed birds before you know it.

Public Waterfowl Hunt Rules and Information (Revised 13 September 2018)

nature.org

The Emiquon Preserve is private property owned and managed by the Illinois Chapter of The Nature Conservancy for ecological purposes. Waterfowl hunting is being offered as a public service. For this hunting program at the Preserve, any and all decisions of Conservancy staff or designees are final, and anyone failing to abide by written rules or instructions from Conservancy staff or designees may have hunting privileges at this Preserve revoked. The Conservancy retains the right to modify these rules and to terminate this program at any time without prior notice.

Drawing Application Process

1. To apply for any Advanced Drawing, email or mail the following:

-Name

-Address

-Phone Number

-Email Address

-Advanced drawing(s) you are applying for: Public, Disabled or Youth

-Date(s) (See Below)

Applicants do not choose their hunting site, instead The Nature Conservancy will assign hunting sites and provide a map to those who are successfully selected.

2. Email above to csmith@tnc.org or mail to Illinois Rivers Program Office, 11304 N. Prairie Road, Lewistown, IL 61542.

3. Applications must be received by October 3. Drawings will be on October 4. Notification by October 12.

4. Individuals should only apply once listing all dates they want to hunt.

5. Registering by phone is not permitted.

6. Failure to include all information may disqualify you from the drawing.

Public waterfowl hunting dates:

October: 27, 30. November: 1,3, 6, 8, 10, 13, 15, 17, 20, 22, 24, 27, 29. December: 1, 4, 6, 8, 11, 13, 15, 18, 20, 22, 25.

Youth Date: October 20 and 21.

Disabled Individuals Dates: November 2, 16 and 30 December 14.

2018 Rules:

1. All hunters must have a “Waterfowl Hunting Liability Waiver for 2018” to access the hunting area (signed by a parent, guardian or adult designee of parent or guardian for hunters under 18 years of age). All Waterfowl Hunting Liability Waivers must be deposited in the black lock box prior to hunting. The black lock box is located at a small shed in the Visitor Use Area just east of state Routes 78/97 and about one-half mile north of Dickson Mounds Museum Road

2. Each hunter must individually sign in on the “2018 Daily Hunter Harvest Register” located at a small shed in the Visitor Use Area just east of state Routes 78/97 and about one-half mile north of Dickson Mounds Museum Road prior to hunting. After hunting each person must individually sign out and record their harvest in the “2018 Daily Hunter Harvest Register”. Failure to sign in and out could make you ineligible for future hunts.

3. Hunting will be allowed only in areas designated by Conservancy staff. Hunters must stay within their pre-assigned hunting areas and within 166 yards of their stake and must remain a minimum of 200 yards from any other group.

4. Parking is allowed only at designated areas on the Preserve. Participants may drive only on established/marked roadways. Parking is allowed only on the east side of Clark Road. Note: Parking for each site is limited to a maximum of 4 vehicles.

5. If unable to make your hunting date that you were drawn for, you must notify us within 48 hours so we can fill your site. Failure to notify us could make you ineligible for future hunts.

6. Currently the Conservancy does not charge a fee for public waterfowl hunting at this Preserve. Becoming a member of the Conservancy is encouraged.

7. Any hunter under 18 years of age must be accompanied by a responsible adult. The responsible adult assumes liability for all actions of the minor and must accompany said minor at all times while on the Preserve.

8. This Preserve has drainage ditches that may be hidden from view under the water. Always keep in mind the location of ditches. Observe extreme caution when wading in any waters.

9. Only artificial blind materials such as lay outs or camouflage netting are allowed. No person may bring natural blind materials onto the Preserve. There shall be no cutting, breaking or clearing of vegetation.

10. The use of Other Power Driven Mobility Devices (OPDMDs) (utility vehicles, ATVs, Segways, golf carts, etc.) on this property has been assessed in accordance with the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) regulations. OPDMDs are prohibited except on disabled individual hunting dates.

11. Hunters must observe all State and Federal waterfowl regulations. Conservancy staff or designees may be present and violations will be reported to the Conservation Police.

12. The following are prohibited: Gas-powered motors (not even on the boat); unnecessary shooting or shooting at targets; possession of alcohol; dumping of ashes, trash, garbage, chemical waste or other materials; camping; fishing; and open fires.

13. Collecting and/or removing the following are prohibited: rocks, plants, fossils, plant materials, animals (other than legally taken waterfowl), and artifacts.

14. Law Violations or failing to abide by written rules or instructions from Conservancy staff or designees constitutes trespassing and may cause hunting privileges to be revoked.

15. These rules and regulations are subject to change without notice.

16. Only registered watercraft allowed on the lake.

17. Respect the privilege of hunting on this private property and the rights and safety of fellow hunters. Remove all spent shotgun casings and litter from your hunting site.

18. All gear must be removed from the Preserve each day.

19. Hunting ends promptly at 12:00 noon and hunters must vacate the Preserve by 1:00 PM.

· It is approximately 6 miles to the nearest hospital—Mason District Hospital in Havana (309.543.4431 or dial 911).

· To contact Illinois Department of Natural Resources Conservation Police call Fulton County Sheriff at 309.547.2277.

· For additional information, contact the Illinois Rivers Program Office at Emiquon 309.547.2730 during office hours (Monday through Thursday).

Press Release from:
Cammy Smith
Operations Administrator

csmith@tnc.org
(309) 547-2730 (Phone)

nature.org

IDNR and ICF Honor Volunteer of the Year Recipients and Hall of Fame Inductees During Conservation Day at Illinois State Fair

Conservation Day at the 2018 State Fair was buzzing with activity.  Governor Rauner signed two pieces of legislation, volunteers received recognition as well as the Illinois Outdoor Hall of Fame Class of 2018 was recognized.  You can watch the LIVE broadcast here:

The 2018 IDNR Outstanding Volunteers of the Year are:

Governor Rauner signs two hunting bills on Conservation Day at Illinois State Fair

Governor Signs HB 4231 and HB 5317 into law. 

Springfield, IL -  Today, Governor Rauner signed two hunting related bills into law.  Alongside DNR Director Rosenthal, the Governor signed HB 4231, Blaze Pink Clothing Bill and HB 5317, Wildlife Restiatution Bill.

Illinois Waterfowl Groups and Hunters Meet to Discuss Unified Message to JCAR and IDNR

Waterfowl organizations along with the President of the Illinois Federation Outdoor Resources (IFOR) and other members met at the Migratory Waterfowl Hunters Inc. (MWH) building in Alton, Illinois to discuss the proposed rule changes regarding waterfowl blind material. This proposed rule is currently in front of JCAR with the possibility of a vote being taken on August 14th. JCAR is ‘a bipartisan legislative oversight committee authorized to conduct systematic reviews of administrative rules for state agencies.’ To fully understand the gravity of the issue at hand, you should know about the JCAR process.

IDNR Events and Permit Deadlines - August 2018 Newsbits

Here is a list of events, permits deadlines and more from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.

Illinois DNR Newsbits – August 2018

Firearm Deer Permits: Permit applications will be accepted until Aug. 17 for the third lottery drawing for 2018 Illinois firearm and muzzleloader deer permits. For details, check the IDNR website at https://www.dnr.illinois.gov/hunting/Pages/DeerHunting.aspx

IDNR Fails to Address Waterfowl Hunters Regarding Proposed Rule Changes at Blind Drawings Across the State

This past weekend thousands of waterfowl hunters and enthusiasts attended waterfowl blind drawings across Illinois and how many of them received information from the DNR related to this new proposed rule regarding waterfowl blinds?  Most likely, very few people received any information about this.    If you recall we informed you of this when it was first introduced as legislation and it has since been filed as an administrative rule that is going through the JCAR process.  During the first notice period, public comments are sent to the DNR related to the new rule.  From the DNR 2nd Notice report you can see how many comments were sent in. 

How many comments were received?
Following this proposal going on first notice, the Department received 382 comments regarding the proposed change. 380 comments were in opposition to the original proposed change, one comment in support of the change, and one commenter’s position was unknown.

High School Anglers from Across Illinois Head to State Finals at Carlyle

Anticipation is jumping out of the water for high school anglers this week, especially those that have made it to State.  Having to sit in class thinking about, what to throw, where to go, and most of all if a pattern will develop and hold for the duration of the IHSA State Finals must be daunting.   I'm sure a few anglers will be on their computers or cell phones throughout the day checking out Fishidy, Youtube and anything else that will help give them the competitive edge this weekend.

Week of April 23, 2018 - Illinois 100th General Assembly Legislative Update

Both the House and Senate were busy in their respective chambers this week.  Below you will see the action taken on the outdoor related bills we are following. Click on each link to read more about each bill.

HOUSE

Agriculture Committee Action:

HB 5293 - Endangered Species FA #1 (Adopted 13-0-0)

• Amended to change to one member of the Endangered Species Board shall be a landowner representing the State's largest general farm organization.

HOUSE Floor:
HB 5440 - Youth Hunting (Passed 108-0-0)

• Provides the the fee for resident and non-resident youth archery deer permit shall be the same. 
• For example, out of state family under the age of 18 would be able to hunt for the same cost as a resident youth of the State of Illinois. 

SENATE

Agriculture Committee Action 

SB 2493 - Deer Feed FA#1 (Passed 8-0-0)

• Creates a two year study on supplemental feeding of deer. University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine in consultation with the DNR will conduct the study. 
• DNR is neutral on the bill as a pilot program. 

Senate Floor:

SB 2295- FISHING LICENSES (Passed Senate 52-0-0)

• Allows for electronic fishing and combo licenses. 

SB 2962 - RIVER OTTER LIMIT (Passed Senate 43-1-0)

• Allows the DNR to manage the River Otter population by allowing the department to set the limit based on research. 

SB 2963 - TRAPPING TAGS (Passed Senate 44-0-0)

• Currently trappers are required to put their name and address on their traps. This bill would allow trappers to use their DNR Customer # instead for privacy reasons.

Be sure to check back often so that you can stay informed from the Legislative Floors to the Great Outdoors! 

SB 709 - TRAPPING SNAPPING TURTLE - Illinois 100th General Assembly

Senate Sponsors
Sen. Neil Anderson
Filed: SB 709 on 1/30/17

Amendment filed 4/5/18: 
Replaced the introduced bill.  Amends the Herpitles - Herp act by allowing trapping of snapping turtles.

Synopsis As Introduced:
Amends the Wildlife Code. Provides that it shall be unlawful for any person to trap or to hunt with gun, dog, dog and gun, or bow and arrow, gray fox, red fox, raccoon, weasel, mink, muskrat, badger, bobcat, and opossum except during the open season which will be set annually by the Director to start between 12:01 a.m., November 1 and 12:00 midnight on November 10, and close no earlier than 12:00 midnight on February 15 but not later than 12:00 midnight on March 31, with start and close dates both inclusive (rather than between 12:01 a.m., November 1 to 12:00 midnight February 15, both inclusive). Deletes a provision providing that the season limit for river otter shall not exceed 5 river otters per person per season. Provides that any person who violates the provisions of the Section, including administrative rules, shall be guilty of a Class B misdemeanor.

Last Actions:

• 1/30/2017 Senate Filed with Secretary by Sen. Neil Anderson
• 1/30/2017 Senate First Reading
• 1/30/2017 Senate Referred to Assignments
• 2/8/2017 Senate Assigned to Agriculture
• 3/17/2017 Senate Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments
• 1/24/2018 Senate Re-assigned to Agriculture
• 4/5/2018 Senate Senate Committee Amendment No. 1 Filed with Secretary by Sen. Neil Anderson
• 4/5/2018 Senate Senate Committee Amendment No. 1 Referred to Assignments
• 4/10/2018 Senate Senate Committee Amendment No. 1 Assignments Refers to Agriculture
• 4/12/2018 Senate Senate Committee Amendment No. 1 Postponed - Agriculture
• 4/12/2018 Senate Do Pass as Amended Agriculture; 004-006-000
• 4/12/2018 Senate Postponed - Agriculture
• 4/13/2018 Senate Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments
• 4/13/2018 Senate Senate Committee Amendment No. 1 Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

Illinois General Assembly Back in Springfield After Spring Break

With the primary election in their rear view mirror and the general election around the bend, Illinois legislators are back in Session this week (April 9 - 13th).

Both the House and Senate are holding committee hearings where some outdoor related bills may be heard.  We will be following along and keeping you up to date as things happen, so be sure to "Like" our Facebook page to get the latest information.

Below you will find each committee broken down with links to more information related to each bill.  The following bills are listed to be heard on that day, but that is not always the case.  We will do a wrap-up at the end of the week to inform you of what happened. 

HOUSE

Agriculture Committee
April 9, 2018 1:00pm

• HB 4231 - Blaze Pink Clothing
• HB 5015 - DNR Volunteer Program Equipment 
• HB 5049 - Statewide Youth Deer Permits
• HB 5130 - DNR Worst Case Analysis
• HB 5293 - Endangered Species
• HB 5317 - Poached Deer Restitution Value 
• HB 5440 - Youth Hunting 
• HB 5692 - River Otter Limit
• HB 5693 - Trapping Tags 

Revenue Committee
April 11, 2018 3:00pm 

• HB 4487 - Lottery Game - State Parks 

On the House Floor to be voted on: 

• HB 4783 - Youth Hunt/Trap

SENATE

Agriculture Committee

April 12, 2018 8:00am

• SB 2295 - Electronic Fishing Licenses
• SB 2493 - Deer Feed
• SB 2962 - River Otter Limit
• SB 2963 - Trapping Tags

Judiciary Committee 

April 10, 2018 3:00pm 

• SB 3247 - IDOT/DNR Land Transfer

On the Senate Floor to be voted on: 

• SB 2824 - DNR Worst Case Analysis 
• SB 2663 - Youth Hunt/Trap

Illinois 100th General Assembly Hunting and Fishing Related Legislation 2018

The second year of the 100th GA has begun with legislators filing new bills left and right.  Below you will see a list of all the new pieces of legislation related to hunting and fishing.

Governor Rauner Releases Proposed Fiscal Year 2019 Illinois Department of Natural Resource Budget

Bills filed in 2018
HB 4231 - Blaze Pink Clothing - Illinois 100th General Assembly

HB 4279-DNR-RECREATIONAL BOAT FUNDING - Illinois 100th General Assembly

HB 4487 - Funding State Parks through Lottery Game - Illinois 100th General Assembly

HB 4585-ROCK RIVER-CATFISH- Illinois 100th General Assembly

HB 4592 -$DNR-SNOWMOBILES- Illinois 100th General Assembly

HB 4714 - Deer Hunting - Air Guns - Illinois 100th General Assembly

HB 4759 - Wildlife - Duck Blind or Pit - Illinois 100th General Assembly

HB 4783 and SB 2663 - Wildlife - Youth Hunt/Trap - Illinois 100th General Assembly

HB 5015 - DNR Programs Equipment - Illinois 100th GA

HB 5049 - Youth Deer Permits - Illinois 100th GA

HB 5066 & SB 3247 - IDOT/DNR LAND TRANSFERS- Illinois 100th GA

HB 5130 & SB 2824 - DNR WORST CASE ANALYSIS SCENARIO - Illinois 100th GA

HB 5278 - 5 YR HUNTING & FISHING LICENSE - Illinois 100th GA

HB 5293 - WILDLIFE-ENDANGERED SPECIES - Illinois 100th GA

HB 5317 - WILDLIFE-RESTITUTION VALUE -Illinois 100th GA

HB 5440 - WILDLIFE-YOUTH HUNTING -Illinois 100th GA

HB 5692 & SB 2962 - RIVER OTTER-LIMIT - Illinois 100th GA

HB 5693 & SB 2963 - WILDLIFE - TRAPPING TAGS - Illinois 100th GA

SB 2295 -FISHING LICENSES-Illinois 100th General Assembly

SB 2493 -WILDLIFE-DEER BAIT-Illinois 100th General Assembly

SB 2833 - $APPROP-NATURAL RESOURCES - Illinois 100th GA

HB 5440 - WILDLIFE-YOUTH HUNTING -Illinois 100th GA

House Sponsors
Rep. Charles Meier

Filed: HB 5440 on 2/15/2018

Synopsis As Introduced:

Amends the Wildlife Code. Provides that the fees for a youth resident and non-resident archery deer permit shall be the same. Provides that a resident or non-resident youth under age 18 (rather than only resident youth) may apply to the Department of Natural Resources for a Youth Hunting License and Youth Trapping License.

Last Action: Passed Both Houses and now moves onto Governor

Bill Status:

• 2/16/2018 House Filed with the Clerk by Rep. Charles Meier
• 2/16/2018 House First Reading
• 2/16/2018 House Referred to Rules Committee
• 3/7/2018 House Assigned to Agriculture & Conservation Committee
• 4/9/2018 House Do Pass / Short Debate Agriculture & Conservation Committee; 017-000-000
• 4/10/2018 House Placed on Calendar 2nd Reading - Short Debate
• 4/23/2018 House House Floor Amendment No. 1 Filed with Clerk by Rep. Charles Meier
• 4/23/2018 House House Floor Amendment No. 1 Referred to Rules Committee
• 4/24/2018 House House Floor Amendment No. 1 Rules Refers to Agriculture & Conservation Committee
• 4/25/2018 House House Floor Amendment No. 1 Recommends Be Adopted Agriculture & Conservation Committee; 013-000-000
• 4/25/2018 House Added Chief Co-Sponsor Rep. Michael J. Zalewski
• 4/25/2018 House Second Reading - Short Debate
• 4/25/2018 House House Floor Amendment No. 1 Withdrawn by Rep. Charles Meier
• 4/25/2018 House Placed on Calendar Order of 3rd Reading - Short Debate
• 4/26/2018 House Added Co-Sponsor Rep. Daniel Swanson
• 4/26/2018 House Third Reading - Short Debate - Passed 108-000-000
• 4/26/2018 House Added Chief Co-Sponsor Rep. Jerry Costello, II
• 4/26/2018 House Added Chief Co-Sponsor Rep. Avery Bourne
• 4/26/2018 House Added Chief Co-Sponsor Rep. Natalie Phelps Finnie
• 5/1/2018 Senate Arrive in Senate
• 5/1/2018 Senate Placed on Calendar Order of First Reading May 2, 2018
• 5/8/2018 Senate Chief Senate Sponsor Sen. Neil Anderson
• 5/8/2018 Senate First Reading
• 5/8/2018 Senate Referred to Assignments
• 5/9/2018 Senate Assigned to Agriculture
• 5/11/2018 Senate Rule 2-10 Committee Deadline Established As May 31, 2018
• 5/17/2018 Senate Do Pass Agriculture; 007-000-000
• 5/17/2018 Senate Placed on Calendar Order of 2nd Reading May 18, 2018
• 5/18/2018 Senate Second Reading
• 5/18/2018 Senate Placed on Calendar Order of 3rd Reading May 21, 2018
• 5/21/2018 Senate Third Reading - Passed; 048-000-000
• 5/21/2018 House Passed Both Houses

HB 5317 - WILDLIFE-RESTITUTION VALUE -Illinois 100th GA

House Sponsors
Rep. Jerry Costello, II

Filed: HB 5317 on 2/15/2018

Final Action:
Passed Both Chambers
House: 111-000-000
Senate:  054-000-000

Synopsis As Introduced:

Amends the Wildlife Code. Raises the fair market value or replacement cost of various species protected by the Act. Provides that a person who possesses whitetail antlered deer, in whole or in part, captured or killed in violation of the Act, shall pay restitution to the Department of Natural Resources in the amount of $1,000 per whitetail antlered deer and an additional $500 per antler point, for each whitetail antlered deer with at least 8 but not more than 10 antler points. Provides that for whitetail antlered deer with 11 or more antler points, restitution of $1,000 shall be paid to the Department per whitehead antlered deer plus $750 per antler point. Defines "point". Effective immediately.

Last Action: Bill Passed Both Houses and now moves onto the Governor

Bill Status:

• 2/15/2018 House Filed with the Clerk by Rep. Jerry Costello, II
• 2/16/2018 House First Reading
• 2/16/2018 House Referred to Rules Committee
• 3/7/2018 House Assigned to Agriculture & Conservation Committee
• 4/9/2018 House Do Pass / Short Debate Agriculture & Conservation Committee; 017-000-000
• 4/10/2018 House Placed on Calendar 2nd Reading - Short Debate
• 4/10/2018 House House Floor Amendment No. 1 Filed with Clerk by Rep. Jerry Costello, II
• 4/10/2018 House House Floor Amendment No. 1 Referred to Rules Committee
• 4/11/2018 House House Floor Amendment No. 1 Recommends Be Adopted Rules Committee; 003-000-000
• 4/13/2018 House Second Reading - Short Debate
• 4/13/2018 House House Floor Amendment No. 1 Adopted
• 4/13/2018 House Placed on Calendar Order of 3rd Reading - Short Debate
• 4/17/2018 House Third Reading - Short Debate - Passed 111-000-000
• 4/17/2018 Senate Arrive in Senate
• 4/17/2018 Senate Placed on Calendar Order of First Reading April 18, 2018
• 4/18/2018 Senate Chief Senate Sponsor Sen. Napoleon Harris, III
• 4/18/2018 Senate First Reading
• 4/18/2018 Senate Referred to Assignments
• 4/25/2018 Senate Assigned to Agriculture
• 5/10/2018 Senate Do Pass Agriculture; 009-000-000
• 5/10/2018 Senate Placed on Calendar Order of 2nd Reading May 15, 2018
• 5/16/2018 Senate Second Reading
• 5/16/2018 Senate Placed on Calendar Order of 3rd Reading May 17, 2018
• 5/24/2018 Senate Third Reading - Passed; 054-000-000
• 5/24/2018 House Passed Both Houses

HB 5293 - WILDLIFE-ENDANGERED SPECIES - Illinois 100th GA

House Sponsors
Rep. Jerry Costello, II

Filed: HB 5293 on 2/15/2018

House Floor Amendment No. 1
Provides that a permit for incidental taking under the Act shall not be required if a federal conservation agreement, including but not limited to, a candidate conservation agreement, habit conservation plan, or safe harbor agreement, that includes conservation practices conducted in this State in effect and approved by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service under the federal Endangered Species Act of 1973 (in the introduced bill, a permit for incidental taking under the Act shall not be required if a federal conservation agreement, including but not limited to, a candidate conservation agreement, habit conservation plan, or safe harbor agreement, is in effect and approved by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service under the federal Endangered Species Act of 1973). Provides that incidental taking of species which are listed as endangered or threatened by the State only and not listed by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service shall follow the provisions under the Act. Provides that of the remaining appointed members, 1 member shall be a landowner representing the State's largest general farm organization (in the introduced bill, 2 members).
Synopsis As Introduced:

Amends the Illinois Endangered Species Protection Act. Provides that a permit for incidental taking under the Act shall not be required if a federal conservation agreement, including but not limited to, a candidate conservation agreement, habit conservation plan, or safe harbor agreement, is in effect and approved by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service under the federal Endangered Species Act of 1973. Provides that in making Endangered Species Protection Board appointments of naturalists, the Governor shall give consideration to recommendations of conservation groups. Provides that of the remaining appointed members, 2 members shall be landowners representing the State's largest general farm organization. Removes the exemption for notice or public hearing when the Endangered Species Protection Board automatically places a species or subspecies of an animal or plant on the Illinois endangered list after designation as endangered by the U.S. Secretary of Interior. Effective immediately.

Last Actions:

• 2/15/2018 House Filed with the Clerk by Rep. Jerry Costello, II
• 2/16/2018 House First Reading
• 2/16/2018 House Referred to Rules Committee
• 3/7/2018 House Assigned to Agriculture & Conservation Committee
• 4/9/2018 House Do Pass / Short Debate Agriculture & Conservation Committee; 011-001-002
• 4/10/2018 House Placed on Calendar 2nd Reading - Short Debate
• 4/11/2018 House Added Co-Sponsor Rep. Ryan Spain
• 4/13/2018 House Added Co-Sponsor Rep. Dave Severin
• 4/13/2018 House Added Chief Co-Sponsor Rep. Jim Durkin
• 4/13/2018 House Second Reading - Short Debate
• 4/13/2018 House Placed on Calendar Order of 3rd Reading - Short Debate
• 4/13/2018 House Added Chief Co-Sponsor Rep. William Davis
• 4/13/2018 House Added Chief Co-Sponsor Rep. Avery Bourne
• 4/13/2018 House Added Chief Co-Sponsor Rep. Natalie Phelps Finnie
• 4/13/2018 House Chief Co-Sponsor Changed to Rep. Natalie Phelps Finnie
• 4/23/2018 House House Floor Amendment No. 1 Filed with Clerk by Rep. Jerry Costello, II
• 4/23/2018 House House Floor Amendment No. 1 Referred to Rules Committee
• 4/24/2018 House House Floor Amendment No. 1 Rules Refers to Agriculture & Conservation Committee
• 4/25/2018 House House Floor Amendment No. 1 Recommends Be Adopted Agriculture & Conservation Committee; 013-000-000
• 4/25/2018 House Recalled to Second Reading - Short Debate
• 4/25/2018 House House Floor Amendment No. 1 Adopted
• 4/25/2018 House Placed on Calendar Order of 3rd Reading - Short Debate
• 4/27/2018 House Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee

HB 5278 - 5 YR HUNTING & FISHING LICENSE - Illinois 100th GA

House Sponsors
Rep. Monica Bristow

Filed: HB 5278 on 2/15/2018

Synopsis As Introduced:

Amends the Fish and Aquatic Life Code. Provides that residents of this State may obtain a 5-year fishing license. Provides that the fee for a 5-year fishing license is $62.50. Provides that for residents age 65 or older, the fee is one-half of the fee charged for a 5-year fishing license. Provides that for resident veterans of the United States Armed Forces after returning from service abroad or mobilization by the President of the United States, the fee is one-half of the fee charged for a 5-year fishing license. Provides that residents of this State may obtain a 5-year sportsmen's combination license that shall entitle the holder to the same non-commercial fishing privileges as residents holding a license and to the same hunting privileges as residents holding a license to hunt all species under the Wildlife Code. Provides that the 5-year sportsmen's combination license fee shall be $112.50. Provides that no sportsmen's combination license shall be issued to any individual who would be ineligible for either the fishing or hunting license separately. Provides that for residents age 65 or older, the fee is one-half of the fee charged for a 5-year sportsmen's combination license. Provides that for resident veterans of the United States Armed Forces after returning from service abroad or mobilization by the President of the United States, the fee is one-half of the fee charged for a 5-year sportsmen's combination license. Amends the Wildlife Code. Provides that residents of this State may obtain a 5-year hunting license to hunt all species for $52. Provides that for residents age 65 or older and resident veterans of the United States Armed Forces after returning from service abroad or mobilization by the President of the United States, the fee is one-half of the fee charged for a 5-year hunting license.

Last Actions:

• 2/15/2018 House Filed with the Clerk by Rep. Monica Bristow

HB 5693 & SB 2963 - WILDLIFE - TRAPPING TAGS - Illinois 100th GA

House Sponsors
Rep. Jerry Costello, II

Filed: HB 5693 on 2/16/2018

HB 5693 Passed Both Houses and now moves onto the Governor

AMENDMENT TO HOUSE BILL 5693:
Amend House Bill 5693 on page 1, line 15, by replacing "owner, or the name and "with "owner, or the".

Senate Sponsors
Sen. Neil Anderson

Filed: SB 2963 on 2/14/2018

AMENDMENT TO SENATE BILL 2963:
Amend Senate Bill 2963 on page 1, line 15, by replacing "owner, or the name and "with "owner, or the".

Synopsis As Introduced:

Amends the Wildlife Code. Provides that traps used in the taking of mammals protected by the Code, for which an open trapping season has been established, shall be marked or tagged with metal tags or inscribed in lettering giving the name and address of the owner, or the name and customer identification number issued by the Department of Natural Resources, and absence of such mark or tag shall be prima facie evidence that such trap or traps are illegally used and the trap or traps shall be confiscated and disposed of as directed by the Department. Effective immediately.


HB 5693 Bill Status:

• 2/16/2018 House Filed with the Clerk by Rep. Jerry Costello, II
• 2/16/2018 House First Reading
• 2/16/2018 House Referred to Rules Committee
• 3/7/2018 House Assigned to Agriculture & Conservation Committee
• 3/7/2018 House House Committee Amendment No. 1 Filed with Clerk by Rep. Jerry Costello, II
• 3/7/2018 House House Committee Amendment No. 1 Referred to Rules Committee
• 3/8/2018 House House Committee Amendment No. 1 Rules Refers to Agriculture & Conservation Committee
• 4/9/2018 House House Committee Amendment No. 1 Adopted in Agriculture & Conservation Committee; 017-000-000
• 4/9/2018 House Do Pass as Amended / Short Debate Agriculture & Conservation Committee; 017-000-000
• 4/10/2018 House Placed on Calendar 2nd Reading - Short Debate
• 4/19/2018 House Third Reading - Short Debate - Passed 111-000-000
• 4/23/2018 Senate Arrive in Senate
• 4/23/2018 Senate Placed on Calendar Order of First Reading April 24, 2018
• 4/24/2018 Senate Chief Senate Sponsor Sen. Neil Anderson
• 4/24/2018 Senate First Reading
• 4/24/2018 Senate Referred to Assignments
• 4/27/2018 Senate Added as Alternate Chief Co-Sponsor Sen. Jil Tracy
• 5/1/2018 Senate Approved for Consideration Assignments
• 5/1/2018 Senate Placed on Calendar Order of 2nd Reading May 2, 2018
• 5/2/2018 Senate Second Reading
• 5/2/2018 Senate Placed on Calendar Order of 3rd Reading May 3, 2018
• 5/22/2018 Senate Third Reading - Passed; 057-000-000
• 5/22/2018 House Passed Both Houses

SB 2963 Last Actions:

• 2/14/2018 Senate Filed with Secretary by Sen. Neil Anderson
• 2/14/2018 Senate First Reading
• 2/14/2018 Senate Referred to Assignments
• 2/21/2018 Senate Assigned to Agriculture
• 2/28/2018 Senate Senate Committee Amendment No. 1 Filed with Secretary by Sen. Neil Anderson
• 2/28/2018 Senate Senate Committee Amendment No. 1 Referred to Assignments
• 3/1/2018 Senate Senate Committee Amendment No. 1 Assignments Refers to Agriculture
• 4/12/2018 Senate Senate Committee Amendment No. 1 Adopted
• 4/12/2018 Senate Do Pass as Amended Agriculture; 009-000-000
• 4/12/2018 Senate Placed on Calendar Order of 2nd Reading April 17, 2018
• 4/12/2018 Senate Added as Co-Sponsor Sen. Jil Tracy
• 4/18/2018 Senate Second Reading
• 4/18/2018 Senate Placed on Calendar Order of 3rd Reading April 19, 2018
• 4/23/2018 Senate Third Reading - Passed; 044-000-000
• 4/23/2018 House Arrived in House
• 4/25/2018 House Chief House Sponsor Rep. Lawrence Walsh, Jr.
• 4/25/2018 House First Reading
• 4/25/2018 House Referred to Rules Committee