HB-5180 Summary

• Defines "pneumatic gun" as any implement designed as a gun that expels a BB, bolt, arrow, or pellet by spring, gas, or air, excluding paintball guns.

• Allows the Natural Resources Commission to issue orders permitting individuals to take game with pneumatic guns during any open firearm season for that game.

• Authorizes the Department to issue permits to individuals with disabilities or physical limitations to use pneumatic guns during bow seasons if certified by a medical professional that they cannot hold, aim, and shoot a bow or crossbow.

• Expands disability hunting provisions to allow individuals unable to walk 200 feet in field conditions or through dense wooded areas due to permanent or temporary disability to take game from a standing vehicle during open season.

• Requires the Department to report to the legislature by March 30, 2018 on bear damage shooting permits issued, bears taken, and recommendations for changes to the bear damage permit program.