IL HB1939

Raises the age exemption for fishing licenses from under 16 to under 18 years old, allowing individuals under 18 to fish with sport fishing devices without a license.

Maintains existing exemptions for blind residents, residents with disabilities (Class 2 disability as defined in the Illinois Identification Card Act), and individuals fishing at department-licensed fee fishing areas.

Preserves exemptions for disabled veterans (at least 10% service-related disability or receiving total disability pensions) to fish with sport fishing devices without a license during lawful fishing periods.

Allows the Director to designate a license-free fishing period annually not to exceed 4 days for sport fishermen in state waters and Lake Michigan.

Becomes effective upon enactment into law.