Feb. 16, 2012
Del. Wendell R. Beitzel (R–Dist. 1A) last week filed House Bill 1052, a measure that will give the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) the increased ability to provide harsher penalties for those individuals who illegally poach wildlife.
“As an avid hunter, I am very troubled to hear stories of individuals who have failed to hunt game responsibly,” Beitzel said. “Everyone has heard of stories of hunters who poach at night, hunt out of season, ignore game bag limits, or who illegally trespass on another person’s land in search of game.”
Support the Republican Newspaper! It’s only $9.95/year for the online edition!
Over the last several years, Beitzel has joined with Del.Barbara Frush (D–Anne Arundel / Prince George’s counties) on the measure that would give the DNR greater authority in regard to enforcement against poaching.
This year, Beitzel has taken the lead in sponsoring the bill. The bill would allow for an administrative hearing process in which the DNR could hold a hearing to decide whether the hunter’s license should be revoked for a period of time. Current law only provides for a judicial process.
“Currently, the same judges that deal with domestic issues and DUIs must also address these hunting violations,” Beitzel said. “As a result, lenient penalties are often given to egregious offenders. This bill would give the DNR authority to revoke hunting privileges after a conviction on charges for game violations.”
More here.
Buying or selling real estate in Garrett County or Deep Creek Lake, Maryland? Call Jay Ferguson of Railey Realty for all of your real estate needs! I take great pride in referrals, and I assure you, I will take great care of your friends, family & colleagues!
