WV HB5531

Hunters in West Virginia who mortally wound deer, elk, turkey, wild boar, or bear may use leashed dogs and/or unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to track and locate the animal

Dog handlers actively recovering mortally wounded game may humanely dispatch the animal with an in-season weapon at the hunter's request to prevent suffering, ensure public safety, or complete lawful recovery

Licensed outfitters, dog handlers, or guides working under an outfitter's license may use a pistol during any season to dispatch mortally wounded game for self-defense of the dog/handler or to prevent animal suffering

Dog handlers or UAV operators providing tracking services for profit or advertising wounded game recovery services must be licensed as outfitters or guides; UAV operators on non-owned/leased property must hold FAA Part 107 certification

The Director of Wildlife Resources must maintain and provide to the public a list of licensed outfitters and guides offering dog or UAV tracking services