Presenter: David Sinclair

Commission Agenda Item No. 11
Briefing
Interstate Wildlife Violator Compact
January 22, 2009

I. Executive Summary: The Sunset Commission is discussing recommending to the Texas Legislature that Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) be allowed to join the Interstate Wildlife Violator Compact (IWVC). If enacted, TPWD would gain the benefits of a multi-state approach to handling violations of fish and game laws. The IWVC establishes a process whereby wildlife law violations by a non-resident from a member state is handled as if the person were a resident, in that personal recognizance is permitted instead of arrest, booking, and bonding. This process is a convenience for hunters and fishermen of member states and will increase efficiency of TPWD Game Wardens by allowing more time for enforcement duties rather than violator processing procedures required for arrest, booking, and bonding of non-residents. The Wildlife Violator Compact also includes a reciprocal recognition of license and permit suspension by member states, thus any person whose license or permit is suspended in a member state may also be suspended in Texas. Wildlife law violators will be held more responsible due to the fact that their illegal activities in one state can affect their privileges of hunting and fishing in all participating states. This cooperative interstate effort will enhance the Law Enforcement Division's ability to protect and manage Texas' wildlife resources.

II. Discussion: Information about the IWVC will be provided so that there is a clear understanding of the cooperative agreement.