HCS/SCS/SB 657 - This act modifies provisions relating to the hunting or release of wildlife.

Section 252.035 - Requires the payment of restitution to the state in specific amounts by any person who unlawfully takes, kills, possesses or disposes of a deer. Up to twenty-five percent of the funds may be used to promote anti-poaching activities.

Section 252.043 - Currently, this section allows the Conservation Commission to suspend, revoke, or deny a hunting permit if a person causes injury to another person while hunting. New language requires notification to the Commission if a person fails to appear at a hearing or pay penalties.

Section 252.230 - Authorizes automatic expungement of court records on a first violation of the wildlife code if time is served or penalties are paid. The Director of the Department of Conservation will retain the record of such arrest for Department purposes only.

Section 253.180 - Prohibits the release of swine to live in the wild within any state park.

Section 280.170 - This section currently allows anyone finding swine or sheep on his or her property to restrain them and notify the owner. New language allows the taking or killing of feral hogs found on one's property.

Section 270.260 - This new section provides for a class A misdemeanor against any person who knowingly releases a swine to live on public land or on private land not completely enclosed by a fence to contain the animal.

Section 271.400 - Provides a definition for "feral hog". This section also exempts from liability anyone who kills a feral hog roaming freely on his or her property and anyone who takes or kills a feral hog on public or private land with the landowner's consent.

Provisions of this act are similar to HB 1342 (2000).
ERIN MOTLEY