HB 518 Summary

• Amends Ohio hunting and fishing license laws, including changes to license fees, permit requirements, and definitions related to wild animals and hunting/fishing activities.

• Introduces new multi-year (3, 5, or 10-year) and lifetime hunting and fishing licenses for Ohio residents, with specified fee schedules and a dedicated fund for revenue distribution.

• Establishes apprentice hunting and fur taker permits with reduced requirements and fees, allowing holders to hunt only while accompanied by licensed adults.

• Creates a nonresident Lake Erie sport fishing district permit ($10 annually) required for nonresidents fishing in Lake Erie between January 1 and April 30.

• Modifies firearm transportation laws in motor vehicles, including new exemptions for electric-powered all-purpose vehicles used during hunting season and clarifications on proper firearm storage requirements.