The committee considered House Bill 1260, a measure from Representative Hagert that would allow the Game and Fish Department to set nonresident archery-tag allocations using current survey methodology rather than fixed prior-year totals.

Supporters told the committee that North Dakota Game and Fish endorsed the change because its current survey system yields an appropriate allocation and can better adjust for weather and population fluctuations that affect herds. The sponsor said the approach avoids using historical years that might reflect a severe winter or other outlier year.

Representative Doctor moved and the committee took a roll-call vote recommending a due pass on HB 1260. The motion carried and the bill was reported out of committee for floor consideration.

Ending: The committee recommended HB 1260 for passage and returned it to the calendar for the chamber’s consideration.