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House approves wildlife bill expanding depredation tags and trap rules after amendment
Summary
The House passed Senate File 654, which revises wildlife rules including depredation definitions, tag issuance and trap identification after adopting amendment H8408; opponents warned that expansion could hurt deer‑herd conservation while supporters said it helps farmers manage deer damage.
Senate File 654, a multi‑part wildlife bill that addresses treatment of beaver dams, trap and snare identification and dealer license fees, drew debate after Representative Collins (Des Moines) offered amendment H8408 to broaden depredation definitions, permit conservation officers to issue depredation tags and allow farm tenants to use them.
Representative Zavner questioned the expansion, noting the Department of Natural Resources had reported a decline in the statewide deer herd and arguing that widely expanding depredation tags could undermine hunting access for Iowans who do not own land. Collins said the amendment aligns the bill with previously passed natural resources provisions and defended the measure as helping farmers protect crops and property.
The sponsor moved the amendment to a roll‑call vote; the clerk announced the result as read on the floor (announced as "those voting I 165, those voting no 24, absent 11") and declared the amendment passed. After further brief debate the House moved and passed the amended bill; the clerk announced final passage with the tally read aloud (announced as "those voting I 66, those voting no 33, absent 11").
Why it matters: The amendment expands tools available to landowners and conservation officers for depredation control while critics warn the changes could strain the deer herd and reduce hunting access for some Iowans. The bill now proceeds to the Senate (or, as appropriate, to enrollment) following House passage.
