IDNR Initiatives Signed Into Law

Two initiatives of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), carried by State Senator Brian Stewart (R-Freeport) during session earlier this year, have now been signed into law.

Senate Bill 1878 will align the values of bowfin and paddlefish with sturgeon, as all three fish are roe-bearing species. The legislation increases their fair market value or replacement cost from $1 per pound to $4 per pound, which increases criminal penalties for illegal harvesting.

“Paddlefish and bowfin are highly valued for their roe, just like sturgeon,” said Sen. Stewart. “This legislation simply puts...