HB419 Summary

• Amends Section 9-11-244 of the Code of Alabama 1975 to allow whitetail deer hunting on private lands near supplemental feeding areas, reversing the existing prohibition on hunting over bait.

• Permits hunting of whitetail deer more than 100 yards from a supplemental feeder if the feeder is outside the line of sight of the hunter, defined as hidden from view by natural vegetation or naturally occurring terrain features.

• Restriction applies only to private lands; the exemption does not apply on public lands where the ban on hunting over bait remains in effect.

• Titled the "Hunter Protection Act" to clarify feeding regulations and prevent landowners from discontinuing supplemental feeding during deer season out of fear of inadvertent legal violations.

• Becomes effective on the first day of the third month following passage and approval by the Governor.