more new reg info

The falconry bill passed the senate this morning(3-25-09).  It is now off to the governor's desk for signing. Once signed it will be law in 10 days.
There are also a couple of bills moving along that deal with trespassing. SB 1735 authored by Sen. Sparks of Norman.  Rep. Sears has an identical bill that has passed the house. The wording is identical in the 2 bills. The penalties for trespassing increase greatly. In fact, a second offense for trespassing on land used primarily for farming, ranching, or forrestry would require imprisonment for a minimum of 30 days. These bills also have wording that allows one to retrieve their livestock or any other animal from anothers land without seeking permission. The animal, bird dog or raptor in our case, must have inadvertantly strayed onto anothers land. If a landowner has previously informed you that you are not allowed on his/her land you may not retrieve your animal. You would still be liable for any damages you cause while retrieving your animal. The OFA board had discussed attempting to do something with regard to our trespassing laws. This bill should give hunters the ability to retrieve their animals without fear of arrest. Rep Sears feels this bill will pass in this session. Feel free to call or write your legislator to voice your opinion.