1. (1) The State Fish and Wildlife Commission may institute suit for recovery of damages in the amount of $2,500 for a violation of a rule related to the list of prohibited species, as defined in ORS 498.072.
2. (2) Each action in violation of a rule related to the list of prohibited species that pertains to an individual animal constitutes a separate violation for purposes of this section.
3. (3) The amount recoverable under this section shall be reduced by any amount paid to the commission under ORS 496.992 (15).
4. (4) In a suit brought under this section, the court shall award to the prevailing party, in addition to costs and disbursements, reasonable attorney fees.
5. (5) Civil damages awarded pursuant to this section are in addition to other penalties prescribed by the wildlife laws.
6. (6) Any circuit or justice court has jurisdiction to try a case for recovery of damages for violation of a rule related to the list of prohibited species as defined in ORS 498.072.

[2022 c.9 §4]