Relating to leashed dogs and unmanned aerial vehicles for tracking or locating mortally wounded deer, elk, turkey, wild boar or bear

HB 5531 clarifies rules for hunters tracking mortally wounded game. It permits hunters to use leashed dogs or licensed unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) to locate wounded deer, elk, turkey, wild boar, or bear, provided the hunter has a valid license and maintains physical control of the dog. Commercial operators (dog handlers or drone pilots) offering tracking services must be licensed as outfitters/guides or comply with FAA drone rules. The bill also specifies that only the hunter (or their designated handler) may humanely dispatch the animal to prevent suffering, and requires the state to publish a list of licensed tracking service providers by September 1 each year. This bill directly affects hunters, commercial tracking service providers, and wildlife management authorities in West Virginia.