Bills › 91st General Assembly
Relating to hunter education requirements
Sponsored by the House Natural Resources Committee, Rep. Jason Gearhart (R)
Where it is now
- Done: IntroducedJanuary 13, 2026
- Done: SubcommitteeJanuary 14, 2026
- Done: House committeeFebruary 3, 2026
- Done: Passes the HouseMarch 9, 202664–26
- Stopped: Senate committeeDied when the General Assembly ended
- Next: Passes the Senate
- Next: To the Governor
- Next: Signed into law
Died when the session ended The 2026 session adjourned on May 3, 2026, the General Assembly’s last regular session. Bills that didn’t pass both chambers died. What’s a funnel?
What’s in it
AI summary People born after January 1, 1972, must complete a hunter education course before they can get a hunting license. This bill allows hunters to meet that requirement by taking an approved online course or using certifications from nationally recognized organizations. It also makes in-person field days optional rather than required.1
Read the official explanation
This bill relates to hunter education requirements. Under current law, a person born after January 1, 1972, must complete a hunter education course prior to receiving a hunting license. The department of natural resources (department) recognizes certifications issued by another state, country, or province for completion of a course that meets the standards adopted by the international hunter education association —— United States of America as valid to satisfy the hunter education requirement. The bill adds certifications issued by a nationally recognized organization to the list of recognized certifications that may fulfill the hunter education requirement. The bill allows a person to satisfy the hunter education requirement by completing an online hunter education course offered or approved by the department. The bill states that an in-person field day is not required but may be offered as an optional supplemental opportunity.
Why it matters. People born after January 1, 1972, who need to satisfy hunter education requirements could complete an approved online course instead of an in-person one. The department of natural resources would also recognize certifications from nationally recognized organizations as valid for obtaining a hunting license.2
Senate subcommittee
Named March 12, 2026. It hasn’t reported yet.
Three legislators hear a bill first and recommend what the committee should do; it’s the best time to weigh in. How to take part
1 written public comment to its subcommittee: February 12, 2026 (1) · on the Legislature’s site
Family tree
Study bill
91st General Assembly