Georgia Bill Proposes $10 Turkey Stamp
2/27/2025 Update on Georgia House Bill 432
Following yesterday’s Game, Fish & Parks Committee meeting, there were several important clarifications regarding House Bill 432. Here are the key updates:
- The resident turkey stamp is voluntary. Georgia hunters are not required to purchase the $10 stamp, but those who do will be directly supporting turkey conservation efforts.
- A free turkey permit will be required. Similar to the HIP permit for migratory bird hunters, residents will need to select a free turkey permit when purchasing their hunting license. This will allow the state to track turkey hunter participation more accurately.
- A proposed mandatory non-resident turkey stamp. The bill currently suggests a $100 fee for non-residents, but there is ongoing discussion about the final cost.
- Funds will be earmarked for turkey conservation. Revenue generated from voluntary resident purchases and mandatory non-resident fees will go into a dedicated fund for turkey conservation and research, with spending records available to the public.
A new bill introduced in the Georgia House of Representatives could impact turkey hunters across the state. House Bill 432, introduced on February 12, 2025, proposes the creation of a Georgia turkey stamp, similar to existing stamps required for hunting migratory birds and big game. The bill, sponsored by Representatives Trey Kelley, Trey Rhodes, Charles Cannon, Emory Dunahoo, Johnny Chastain, and Rob Clifton, is currently under review by the House Game, Fish & Parks Committee, with a scheduled hearing on February 26.
What the Bill Proposes
House Bill 432 seeks to amend Georgia’s existing wildlife regulations by adding a mandatory turkey stamp for hunters. Key provisions of the bill include:
- A $10 Georgia turkey stamp for residents – The bill does not clarify if this permit is required for Georgia resident turkey hunters, or whether it is an optional purchase.
- A mandatory $100 Georgia turkey stamp for non-residents – Anyone 16 years or older who is not a Georgia resident would be required to buy the stamp in addition to a hunting license.
- Funds from the stamp could support conservation efforts – While the bill does not explicitly outline how the revenue will be used, proponents suggest it could help fund turkey population management and habitat improvement.
Support and Opposition
Like most new hunting regulations, HB 432 has drawn both support and criticism from Georgia sportsmen and women.
Supporters’ Perspective
Proponents of the bill argue that Georgia’s turkey population has declined in recent years due to habitat loss, increased predation, and potential overharvest. They believe revenue from the turkey stamp could provide much-needed funding for research, habitat restoration, and management efforts. Additionally, they point out that requiring a turkey stamp aligns turkey hunting regulations with other game species that already require additional permits.
Opponents’ Concerns
Critics of the bill are primarily concerned about added costs and regulatory burdens for hunters. Many Georgia residents worry that introducing a turkey stamp could be the first step toward additional fees in the future. Others question whether the funds generated would be directly allocated to turkey conservation or if they might be absorbed into the state’s general wildlife budget. Some also argue that requiring a $100 stamp for non-residents could discourage out-of-state hunters, potentially reducing revenue for local businesses that rely on hunting tourism.
What’s Next?
As of February 18, HB 432 has progressed to the House Second Readers stage and is currently awaiting review by the House Game, Fish & Parks Committee. The committee hearing on February 26 will be a key moment in determining the bill’s future. If it passes committee review, it will move forward in the legislative process, potentially leading to a full vote in the Georgia House of Representatives.
What Should Hunters Do?
For Georgia sportsmen and women, it’s important to stay informed and engaged. Hunters who support or oppose HB 432 should consider reaching out to their state representatives to voice their opinions. Attending the committee hearing or following legislative updates can also provide insights into how the bill may evolve.
Whether this bill passes or not, the discussion surrounding it highlights the ongoing conversation about balancing hunting traditions with conservation efforts in Georgia. Turkey hunters should keep a close eye on developments to ensure their voices are heard in shaping the future of hunting regulations in the state.
The bill does not state proceeds will only be used for wild turkey conversation. This is just a money grab. There will be no benefit to wild turkey populations.
Georgia government has a $11 billion surplus. We have more than enough taxes.
As long as the proceeds go towards our Georgia Conservation Projects.