RELATING TO BIG GAME PERMITS; AUTHORIZING THE DIRECTOR OF THE DEPARTMENT OF GAME AND FISH TO ISSUE LANDOWNER PERMITS FOR THE LAWFUL TAKING OF CERTAIN BIG GAME SPECIES; ENACTING A NEW SECTION OF CHAPTER 17, ARTICLE 3 NMSA 1978.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF NEW MEXICO:

Section 1. A new section of Chapter 17, Article 3 NMSA 1978 is enacted to read:

"[NEW MATERIAL] LANDOWNER PERMITS--MANAGEMENT OF CERTAIN BIG GAME SPECIES.--The director of the department of game and fish may issue landowner permits for the lawful taking of elk, antelope, oryx, and deer. The permits may be issued when, in the determination of the director, they are necessary to effectively reduce conflicts between humans and wildlife and provide sport-hunting opportunities in accordance with regulations of the state game commission."

Section 2. EFFECTIVE DATE.--The effective date of the provisions of this act is July 1, 1998.