Commissioners oppose reclassifying thermal-imaging and other violations as 12-demerit offenses

The Nevada Board of Wildlife Commissioners voted Sept. 19 to oppose proposed changes that would raise selected violations — notably possession or use of thermal-imaging devices and some trespass items — to 12 demerit points, saying the increase risks disproportionate loss of hunting privileges.

Commission member Jason led the criticism of the package, calling the proposed demerit structure "absolutely ridiculous" and arguing the department was treating possession of thermal devices the same as much more serious offenses. "When you see possession of thermal right below killing a bald eagle, and they're the same demerit points," Jason said, "at some point, we've got to differentiate these."

The motion to oppose the hunting, fishing and trapping trespass regulation (agenda item 7e) was made and seconded during the…