HD62 - Recommended Legislative Changes to Improve the Efficiency and Effectiveness of the Department of Game and Inland Fisheries

  • Published: 1994
  • Author: Department of Game and Inland Fisheries
  • Enabling Authority: House Joint Resolution 632 (Regular Session, 1993)

Executive Summary:
This study, requested through House Joint Resolution No. 632, Acts of the Virginia General Assembly, 1993, asks the Department of Game and Inland Fisheries to review those sections of the Code of Virginia applicable to it, and to make an assessment of changes or additional legislation needed to further the purposes of the Department and the needs and desires of the public it serves.

The study complements an earlier study by the 1992 General Assembly (HJR 191) which looked at the Department's, function, organizational efficiency and effectiveness. That study concluded that the Department was operating within the scope of its mandates, and that its inability to meet its total responsibilities was hampered by a lack of sufficient funding. The report offered 46 suggestions intended to "make the operation of the Department even more efficient." The Department concurred with most of the findings and recommendations and many have been implemented or are under review.

The report and recommendations formed the basis for this study wherein the Department was requested "to undertake a review of the statutes which govern its operation and to suggest changes or additional provisions to meet the needs of the Department."

The Department solicited desired statutory changes from its staff and Board members, the Director's Citizen Advisory Committee representing approximately 60 organizations, and the general public. The Department received more than 50 suggestions. Although it received numerous minor requests, the Department restricted its consideration to substantive changes primarily relating to the powers, duties, responsibilities and financing of the Department. After consideration by the public and the Department's staff, the Board approved 10 prioritized requests for statutory change needed to improve the Department's efficiency and effectiveness as follows:

1. Amend and re-enact § 29.1-521.6 of the Code of Virginia relating to shooting or hunting from vehicles by designated persons.

2. Amend and re-enact § 29.1-103 relating to the powers of the Board of Game and Inland Fisheries to regulate the time, place, means and methods for taking wildlife.

3. Amend and re-enact § 29.1-536 relating to the sale of bear parts in Virginia.

4. Amend and reenact § 18.2-285 of the Code of Virginia, and add § 18.2-285.1 relating to hunting under the influence.

5. Amend and re-enact § 29.1-110.A. to authorize the Department to receive any funds appropriated by the General Assembly.

6. Amend and re-enact § 29.1-551 relating to assessment of the value of wildlife taken illegally.

7. Amend and re-enact § 29.1-103 (11) relating to the powers and duties of the Board to regulate competing uses of natural resources.

8. Amend and re-enact § 29.1-738.4 to provide for a penalty for operation of a watercraft or motorboat while operating privileges have been revoked f or reckless or intoxicated operation.

9. Amend and re-enact § 18.2-287.1 of the Code of Virginia relating to transporting a loaded rifle or shotgun.

10. Amend and re-enact § 29.1-310, § 29.1-311, and to add a new § 29.1-310.1 relating to the requirement for trout fishing licenses in certain waters stocked with trout.