New Hampshire Senate approves stricter penalties for fishing and hunting violations

The New Hampshire Senate made significant strides in wildlife protection and dental hygiene regulations during its session on April 17, 2025.

In a decisive move, the Senate adopted House Bill 655, which aims to strengthen penalties for illegal hunting and fishing violations. The bill, championed by Senator Waters, increases mandatory fines for illegal activities, with penalties ranging from $50 to $1,000 based on the species involved. It also introduces license suspensions for repeat offenders and classifies a third violation within seven years as a class A misdemeanor. Notably, the bill eliminates lifetime crossbow permits for disabled hunters, requiring re-verification every seven years. The Senate unanimously supported the bill, highlighting a commitment to wildlife conservation.

Additionally, the Senate passed an amendment to House Bill 655 that addresses the growing Atlantic Menhaden fishery, responding to requests from the New Hampshire fishing industry. This amendment will regulate non-resident commercial fishing for the species, ensuring that local fishermen can compete fairly against out-of-state anglers.

On the dental front, the Senate also moved forward with House Bill 144, which mandates that dental hygienists must be trained and pass an examination before administering local anesthesia. This bill, prompted by an audit revealing gaps in existing regulations, aims to enhance patient safety and professional standards in dental care. A related amendment was adopted to ensure that only graduates from accredited dental schools can practice in New Hampshire, reinforcing the integrity of the profession.

Both bills are now set for third readings, marking a proactive approach by the New Hampshire Legislature to address critical issues in wildlife management and healthcare standards.