HB 1027 Summary

• Decriminalizes vehicular parking and traffic movement violations on Department of Land and Natural Resources lands (natural area reserves, game management areas, wildlife sanctuaries, and public hunting areas) by reclassifying them as traffic infractions under Chapter 291D rather than criminal offenses.

• Creates new traffic infraction penalty structure for parking and traffic violations with unspecified fine amounts for first, second, and third or subsequent violations (specific dollar amounts left blank in bill text).

• Maintains criminal penalties for other violations including hunting violations, wildlife protection violations, and illegal deer possession, with mandatory fines and possible imprisonment.

• Allows environmental court to accept community service in lieu of mandatory fines at a rate of one hour of service for every $10 of fine owed.

• Clarifies that the State may pursue both civil administrative fines and criminal actions separately for violations of wildlife and natural resource laws.

• Effective date: July 1, 2050.