MI SB0244

Individuals convicted of illegal killing, possessing, purchasing, or selling of game or protected animals must reimburse the state based on species-specific amounts ranging from $100 to $5,000 per animal.

Additional restitution is required for antlered white-tailed deer ($1,000 base plus $500-$750 per antler point depending on point count) and antlered elk ($250-$500 per point) and bearded turkeys ($1,000).

Courts must order defendants to forfeit the prescribed amounts to the state, with authority to enforce payment through installment plans, civil contempt proceedings, or standard judgment collection methods.

Forfeiture proceeds are deposited into the game and fish protection account through the county treasurer and state treasurer.

The act takes effect February 14, 2016, contingent upon enactment of Senate Bills 245 and 246.