Causer Bill Outlining Discretion for Conservation Officers Now Law

HARRISBURG – Rep. Martin Causer’s (R-Turtlepoint) legislation that clarifies the authority of wildlife and waterways conservation officers to use discretion when enforcing the state’s game, fish and boat codes is now law.

“As a former police officer, I know how important it is to exercise discretion in law enforcement,” Causer said. “While conservation officers already had the authority to exercise such discretion, it was not specifically spelled out in law, and I don’t believe it was being used as much as it could or should have been.”

Act 8 of 2014 specifically states the officers may issue written or verbal warnings in lieu of making arrests or issuing citations.

The law takes effect in 60 days.