AB 1792: Elk tags: federally recognized Indian tribes.

Existing law authorizes the Fish and Game Commission to determine and fix the area or areas, the seasons and hours, the bag and possession limit, and the number of elk that may be taken under rules and regulations that the commission may adopt from time to time. Existing law authorizes the Department of Fish and Wildlife to issue an elk tag upon payment of a fee and to deposit that fee into the Big Game Management Account.

This bill would require the commission, department, upon request, to engage in consultation meet with individual federally recognized Indian tribes in California regarding elk management issues. The bill would authorize the commission to allocate a specific number of elk tags to such an Indian tribe for the purpose of harvesting elk located within the defined territory of that tribe for purposes of subsistence, cultural or religious ceremonies, or tribal celebrations. California to discuss elk-related issues for elk located within the territory of the individual tribe. The bill would require the department, prior to an allocation of elk tags to an Indian tribe, department to work collaboratively collaboratively, and in good faith, with that tribe on the development of a science-based elk management strategy that includes tribal harvest for cultural, ceremonial, and subsistence purposes. to identify possible science-based solutions.