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Minutes for HB2039 - Committee on Veterans and Military
Short Title
Exempting disabled veterans from certain requirements and fees relating to hunting and fishing licenses.
Minutes Content for Tue, Jan 24, 2023
Staff briefed the Committee on this bill and answered questions. (Attachment 1)
Proponents
Written testimony in support of this bill was provided by Representative Troy Waymaster. (Attachment 2)
The Chairman recognized Michael Kelly. (Attachment 3) According to Mr. Kelly, the Kansas Council of Military Officers Association of America (MOAA) would like to see the complete elimination of fishing licenses and small game hunting licenses for disabled veterans. He also asked the Committee to clarify the definition of a service connected disabled veteran in this regulatory context that would be consistent with Title 38 of the Code of Federal Regulations. Mr. Kelly stood for questions.
Later additional information was provided by Mr. Kelly. (Attachment 4)
Opponent
The Chairman recognized Secretary of Wildlife and Parks Brad Loveless. (Attachment 5) Secretary Loveless talked to the Committee about the negative impact that passing this bill would have on the Department. He said changing the reimbursement structure would cause some to not qualify for obtaining a free license. This change would prohibit the Department from claiming those veterans for purposes of federal funding appropriations. Secretary Loveless also talked about the enforcement problems that would be created. He brought up a possible alternative that would be beneficial to both disabled veterans and the Department. Secretary Loveless stood for questions
Neutral
Neutral written testimony was submitted by Kent Keene who, on behalf of the Congressional Sportsmen's Foundation, suggested amendments to HB2039. (Attachment 6)
When all questions had been answered, the Chairman closed the hearing on HB2039.
Announcements
The next meeting will be Thursday, January 26th. The Committee will have final action on HB2039 and hear HB2088 -Directing the Capitol Preservation Committee to develop and approve plans for a mural honoring the 1st Kansas (Colored) Voluntary Infantry Regiment.
Adjourn
There being no further business before the Committee the meeting was adjourned.
