Governor Deal Signs House Bill 208 to Simplify Hunting and Fishing Licenses

Georgia Governor Nathan Deal signed House Bill 208 yesterday afternoon in Brunswick.

House Bill 208 makes changes in Georgia law to simplify the hunting and fishing license structure while also adjusting fees for resident hunting and fishing licenses for the first time since 1992.

More than 5,000 Georgia residents provided feedback about the content of House Bill 208 through a series of eight public meetings held around the state. Over 85 percent supported the proposed changes. Leading sport groups such as the Georgia Wildlife Federation, Coastal Conservation Association, National Wild Turkey Federation, and Ducks Unlimited was also supportive of the changes.

With the additional revenue, DNR will improve wildlife and fish habitat and management on public and private lands and waters; create more shooting ranges; improve boating access in fresh and salt waters; add youth education opportunities; increase fish stocking; and add approximately 40 conservation rangers.
The legislation, which becomes effective on July 1 will rank Georgia in the middle of its Southeastern neighbors for resident hunting and fishing license fees.