IL HB5869

Amends the Fish and Aquatic Life Code to prohibit releasing aquatic life into Illinois waters without Department permission, with an exception for property owners releasing indigenous species into waters wholly on their property.

Establishes that violations of the release prohibition constitute a Class B misdemeanor.

Prohibits possession, transport, or release of live specimens or viable gametes of species designated as injurious by administrative rule unless specifically authorized.

Designates violations of injurious species restrictions as a Class A misdemeanor.

Allows the Department to immediately return unharmed aquatic life to the location where it was taken.