Legislation sponsored by State Senator Dale Fowler (R-Harrisburg) aimed at giving hunters more freedom to address the growing deer population in Illinois has officially cleared both chambers of the Illinois General Assembly with unanimous support.
“These proposals are the result of feedback and conversations with constituents, including landowners, hunters, and farmers, who are seeing the costly effects of the growing deer population in their communities,” said Senator Fowler. “This legislation provides common-sense tools to manage that growth while ensuring taxpayer resources are used more efficiently.”
House Bill 2339 requires the Illinois Department of Natural Resources to end its sharpshooting program used to manage chronic wasting disease if no cases have been detected in the previous three calendar years.
“By eliminating the use of sharpshooting in areas with no recent disease activity, the hope is to reduce unnecessary government intervention and give more control to local hunters and landowners,” said Fowler.
House Bill 2340 makes Landowner Deer Permits more accessible in counties where chronic wasting disease has been identified. Under the legislation, permits will be issued free of charge to Illinois residents who own at least 20 acres of land, resident tenants who farm at least 20 acres of commercial agricultural land, and individuals with qualifying ownership interests in that land. This change helps those who are directly impacted by deer overpopulation to better manage the growing issue in the area and protect their property.
Senator Fowler said both pieces of legislation are focused on improving local control, supporting responsible conservation efforts, and protecting landowners and local farmers.
“These bills not only give hunters more flexibility but also ensure landowners have better avenues to help manage deer populations,” added Fowler.
Both bills now await the Governor’s signature.