Environment (Wildlife)

This bill proposes a constitutional amendment to Missouri's Constitution that changes wildlife enforcement rules. It requires conservation agents to obtain a warrant or get landowner consent before entering private property for enforcement, except in emergencies like immediate safety threats. The amendment also sets strict limits on seizing wildlife: agents must return it within 72 hours (or get court approval), and cannot retain it for "documentation" beyond that without judicial review. These changes directly affect landowners, conservation agents, and wildlife enforcement procedures by strengthening property rights during investigations.

HB 2905 establishes Missouri's control over federally managed lands within the state, requiring federal agencies to obtain state legislative consent before acquiring land or implementing new regulations. It mandates public hearings in affected counties for land changes, gives state law enforcement primary authority for resource enforcement, and prohibits federal officers from issuing citations for minor offenses without state coordination. The bill also requires federal agencies to share 70% of revenue from activities on these lands with Missouri for community projects, road improvements, and economic development, while asserting state jurisdiction over water, wildlife, and mineral rights. A state-federal dispute resolution board must mediate conflicts before new federal regulations take effect.