SB 1253 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 instead of criminal offenses.

• Establishes tiered fines for traffic infractions: $100 for first violation, $200 for second violation, and $500 for third or subsequent violation, with all collected funds deposited in the general fund.

• Maintains criminal penalties for serious violations including poaching, illegal hunting, and possession of protected wildlife, while preserving administrative fine authority up to $2,500 for first violation, $5,000 for second, and $10,000 for third or subsequent violations within five years.

• Clarifies that the State may pursue both criminal and civil legal actions separately for violations, and allows environmental courts to accept community service in lieu of mandatory fines at the rate of one hour per $10 of fine.

• Takes effect on July 1, 2050.