AB 2402 Summary

• Renames the Department of Fish and Game to the Department of Fish and Wildlife and updates all related titles, with existing supplies and materials to remain in use until exhausted.

• Establishes a Science Institute program to provide independent scientific review and advice to inform department and commission decisions, including establishing ad hoc scientific committees.

• Increases fees for scientific collecting permits (from $30 to $300) and student permits (from $10 to $50), and extends the scientific collecting permit validity from 24 to 36 months, with authorization for the commission to adjust fees to recover administrative costs.

• Requires development of a strategic plan to implement reforms arising from the state's strategic vision process and legislation, with authority to contract for consultant assistance through December 31, 2015.

• Consolidates the Augmented Deer Tags Account, Bighorn Sheep Permit Account, and Wild Pig Account into the Big Game Management Account, and extends the repayment deadline for a $10 million loan from the Renewable Resource Trust Fund to December 31, 2013.