Senate adopts bill on depredation tags and beaver-dam treatment, approving dealer fee limits

The Senate concurred in the House amendment to Senate File 654 and passed the bill on final reading.

Senator Sweeney, the sponsor, said the amendment broadens the definition of depredation tags, allows conservation officers to issue depredation tags and permits a farm tenant to obtain a depredation tag. The title as amended reads to include "Buffalo Creek Land Wildlife," treatment of beaver dams, identification for traps and snares, changes to certain license or fertilizer fee provisions, and deer depredation items.

The sponsor moved the concurrence; the amendment was adopted and the Senate passed the bill by recorded vote. The Secretary read the amended title on the floor.

The Senate recorded 32 ayes and 12 nays on final passage. Senator Klemish asked unanimous consent to immediately message Senate File 654 to the House; the request was granted.

Next steps: The bill was ordered messaged to the House for further action.