AN ACT RELATING TO FISH AND WILDLIFE -- HUNTING AND HUNTING SAFETY--WILDLIFE KILLING CONTEST

HB 5606 bans wildlife killing contests - where participants compete to kill animals like coyotes or foxes for cash, prizes, or other rewards - on both public and private lands in the state. It directly affects organizers, sponsors, promoters, and participants of such contests, including businesses or groups hosting these events. The bill includes exemptions for lawful hunting, wildlife damage control, and field trials permitted by wildlife authorities. Violators face fines starting at $500 for individuals and $1,000 for businesses, with penalties increasing for repeat offenses. The bill takes effect upon passage.