RELATING TO GAME AND FISH; AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF ELK ENHANCEMENT PERMITS; MAKING AN APPROPRIATION.

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

Section 1. ELK ENHANCEMENT PERMIT--ISSUANCE--USE.--

A. The state game commission shall direct the department of game and fish to authorize two elk enhancement permits each license year for the taking of two elk bulls to raise funds for programs and projects to better manage elk.

B. The state game commission shall prescribe by rule the form, design and manner of issuance of the two elk enhancement permits. The issuance of one permit shall be subject to auction by the department or by an incorporated nonprofit organization dedicated to conservation of wildlife, as determined by the commission, and shall be sold to the highest bidder. The issuance of the other permit shall be subject to a lottery by the department or by an incorporated nonprofit organization dedicated to conservation of wildlife, as determined by the commission.

C. All money collected from the issuance and sale of the elk enhancement permits shall be credited to the game protection fund to be used exclusively for elk restoration and management.

Section 2. EFFECTIVE DATE.--The effective date of the provisions of this act is July 1, 1999.