MS HB973

Prohibits hunting or killing deer with dogs in Mississippi, effective July 1, 2021.

Violations of the dog hunting prohibition are classified as Class I violations under Section 49-7-141.

Removes references to hunting deer "with dogs" from existing statutes governing deer hunting seasons, including eliminating a separate season for gun hunting with dogs (previously December 24 through a set date).

Consolidates gun deer hunting season to run from the Saturday prior to Thanksgiving through December 1, plus December 16 through a commission-set date totaling 39 days.

Removes prohibition on using dogs during special archery, bow and arrow, and primitive firearm hunting seasons, making those seasons dog-free through statute rather than explicit prohibition.