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House approves changes to deer-hunting rules, allows specified rifle use on public land
Summary
Senate Bill 280 passed the House (recorded 92-0), removing certain length restrictions, changing caliber limits, and allowing specified rifle use on public land while preventing the Department of Natural Resources from changing calibers by rule.
The Indiana House passed Senate Bill 280 on third reading by a recorded vote of 92-0. The bill, presented by Senator Lindauer on the floor, alters several provisions of state deer-hunting law.
Senate Bill 280 removes a length restriction and changes permitted projectile diameter (caliber) for deer hunting. It also allows hunters to use specified rifles on public land where previously rifle use was limited to private property. The bill prevents the Department of Natural Resources from adopting administrative rules that would change those caliber requirements; future changes would require action by the General Assembly.
Representative Pierce asked about controlled hunts on public property and whether the land steward would still need to authorize such hunts; Senator Lindauer and others answered that stewards must still authorize hunts and that safeguards and safety protocols would remain in place. Supporters noted similar approaches in other states.
The House recorded final passage as 92 ayes and 0 noes; the bill will remain part of the enacted statute after processing.
