A bill for an act relating to open season exceptions for taking geese.(See HF 866.)

House Study Bill 254 (HSB254) proposed allowing owners or tenants of agricultural properties outside city limits in Iowa to take, capture, shoot, or temporarily possess geese deemed a nuisance without prior permission, similar to existing provisions for raccoons, opossums, and skunks. The bill was renumbered as House File 866 (HF 866) on March 7, 2025.

Supporters of HSB254 argue that it provides farmers and rural property owners with necessary tools to manage nuisance geese populations, thereby protecting crops and reducing property damage. They believe the bill offers a practical solution to wildlife management challenges in agricultural areas.

Critics express concerns that allowing the taking of geese without prior permission could lead to unintended consequences, such as overharvesting or conflicts with federal protections under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. They emphasize the need for careful regulation to ensure sustainable wildlife populations and compliance with federal laws.