New Wyoming Laws To Affect Game and Fish

With the 2022 Wyoming Legislative session came the passing of several bills which will have an impact on Wyoming Game and Fish Department laws and regulations.

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Trophy game, big game, and wild bison license allocations (HB0043)
There has been an increase in resident license allocation in five of Wyoming's largest species, these being bison, bighorn sheep, mountain goat, moose, and grizzly bear. Now, residents get a chance at 90% of the available licenses, and nonresidents will get a 10% chance. 

This new law does not change hunting license draws this year. The bill goes into effect on July 1.

Sage grouse game bird farm-no certification expiration-2 (SF0061)
This bill extends the expiration date for Wyoming sage grouse game bird farm certification, with the new sunset date being December 31, 2027, effective July 1.

Aquatic invasive species inspection enforcement (SF0006)
There will now be tougher fines for boaters who fail to stop at watercraft check stations, with any person who is discovered to have passed check stations having 48 hours to get their watercraft inspected for invasive aquatic species. Violators could face up to a $5,000 fine. This law will be effective on January 1, 2023.

Hunting license application funds (HB0072)
Beginning on July 1, people applying for hunting licenses will have the option to donate all or a portion of their refundable license fees to support the Wyoming Wildlife and Natural Resource Trust Income Account, the Game and Fish access account, or both. 

Game and Fish fund-investments (SF0059)
The Wyoming Game and Fish Commission has been granted the authority to invest additional Commission funds into an alternative state-run investment pool, with the account having the potential for much higher interest yields. This law will be effective July 1.