Those that enjoy the outdoor activities like boating, hunting and fishing may welcome changes to the Indiana criminal code.
Representative Jud McMillin (R-Brookville) was a co-author of the bill that will take effect July 1, 2014.
The new law eases dozens of penalties for offenses that occur at a location like Brookville Lake, which is included in McMillin’s district.
The revised criminal code eases the penalty on dozens of infractions and gives police and conservation officers and prosecutors more say on enforcement.
Infractions such as exceeding the fish catch limit or sounding a boat horn when there is now emergency will be enforced with less penalty.
Rather than face losing your boating, fishing or hunting license, or face possible jail time, some offenses will carry just a fine or infraction.
If someone is cited for poaching a deer, an automatic $500 fine is handed down. The bill that takes effect this summer will allow a judge to determine the fine and disciplinary action.
The changes are part of a larger effort to make penalties more suitable for the offense. While natural resources will remain protected, enforcement will not come at the same criminal cost.
