Bill > LD820

This bill proposes a constitutional amendment to Maine's state constitution that would explicitly establish and protect the right of people to hunt, fish, and harvest game and fish. Specifically, the amendment would protect these activities, including traditional methods, while still allowing the state legislature and fish and wildlife management agencies to create reasonable laws and rules for wildlife conservation and management. The amendment would also declare public hunting and fishing as the preferred methods for managing wildlife populations. The proposed change would be presented to Maine voters in a statewide referendum during the November election following the bill's passage, where voters will be asked to approve the constitutional amendment by voting "Yes" or "No" on a specific ballot question. If a majority of voters approve the amendment, it would become part of the Maine Constitution upon the Governor's proclamation. The amendment includes a specific clause ensuring that this new right does not modify existing laws related to eminent domain, trespass, or property rights, thus maintaining those legal protections.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=820&snum=132