HB3688 Summary

• Amends the Wildlife Code to require resident and nonresident landowners to complete a landowner permit application and submit proof of eligible land ownership to the Department of Natural Resources once every 5 years.

• Defines "bona fide equity member," "bona fide equity partner," and "bona fide equity shareholder" to clarify eligibility for free landowner permits for individuals with ownership interests in LLCs, partnerships, and corporations that own at least 40 acres of land.

• Issues free deer, turkey, and combination hunting permits to Illinois residents who own at least 40 acres, resident tenants of 40+ acres of commercial agricultural land, and bona fide equity holders in qualifying business entities.

• Limits free permits for corporations and LLCs to a maximum of 15 per county and limits free permits for partnerships to a maximum of 3 per county, with one permit issued per 40 acres of land owned.

• Permits nonresident landowners who own at least 40 acres to hunt only on their own land at a fee set by administrative rule.