Lawmakers introduce HB509 regulating cervid ownership and disease management

In the heart of Alabama's legislative session, a new bill has emerged that could reshape the landscape of cervid ownership in the state. House Bill 509, introduced on April 3, 2025, aims to regulate the licensing and management of cervids—deer and similar animals—held by private individuals and organizations. As discussions unfold, the bill's implications are stirring both interest and concern among stakeholders.

At its core, HB509 establishes a tiered licensing fee structure based on the number of cervids owned. For those with up to 50 animals, the fee is set at $500, while owners of 51 to 100 animals will pay $1,000. For those with more than 100 cervids, the fee remains at $1,000, regardless of the number. This approach seeks to create a manageable framework for cervid ownership, ensuring that the state can monitor and regulate these animals effectively.

One of the bill's most significant provisions is its stipulation that state agencies cannot mandate the killing of cervids or require disease testing unless a specific disease has been detected in the animals. This provision has sparked considerable debate among wildlife advocates and cervid owners alike. Proponents argue that it protects the rights of private owners and reduces unnecessary culling of healthy animals. However, critics warn that it could hinder efforts to control diseases that affect cervids, potentially putting wild populations at risk.

The bill also asserts that all cervids owned by licensees as of October 1, 2025, along with their offspring, will be classified as personal property, not state property. This change could have profound implications for how cervid ownership is perceived and regulated in Alabama, raising questions about property rights and wildlife management.

As the bill progresses through the legislative process, experts are weighing in on its potential impact. Some believe it could foster a more responsible approach to cervid ownership, encouraging better management practices among private owners. Others caution that without stringent disease control measures, the state could face significant ecological challenges.

With the bill set to take effect immediately upon passage, the coming weeks will be crucial for stakeholders as they navigate the complexities of cervid management in Alabama. As discussions continue, the balance between private ownership rights and public health concerns remains a pivotal theme in the ongoing legislative dialogue surrounding House Bill 509.