Proposal sets hearings for Nebraska wildlife rules and orders

The proposal says the commission shall set rules for hunting, fur-harvesting, and fishing gear, and may issue orders about seasons, limits, and where wildlife may be taken. The rules cover hunting, fur-harvesting, and fishing gear. Orders may set seasons, limits, and areas where game, fish, and other wildlife may be taken. Rules and orders must follow other applicable laws and rely on investigation and available, reliable data. The commission must hold a public hearing before adopting, changing, or repealing a rule or order, and post hearing notice at least 30 days beforehand. An order would not apply to anyone until 15 days after it is posted online. Each rule must state when it takes effect.

The proposal says the commission may close or reopen a previously set season during an emergency. This applies to previously set seasons for game birds, fish, and animals, including seasons set by a conservation order. The commission may use this process only when keeping a season open would pose grave danger to human life, property, or bird, fish, or wild animal populations. The commission must act by majority vote at a valid special meeting and make every effort to inform news media. A season change would take effect no sooner than 24 hours after the commission acts.