HB 1197 Summary

• Governmental entities are prohibited from providing funds through grants, contracts, or other agreements to nonprofit organizations for the purpose of holding interests in real property or easements for wildlife or conservation purposes.

• The prohibition does not apply when a governmental entity partners with a nonprofit organization and derives a benefit from the partnership.

• Recipients of public funds used in violation of this prohibition are subject to civil action by any person for the return of those public funds.

• The bill passed the House with 66 yeas and 25 nays and the Senate with 43 yeas and 3 nays.