Bill > H1017

This bill proposes to provide priority access to Antlerless Deer Permits (ADPs) for disabled veterans in Massachusetts. Specifically, the bill requires the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife to amend its regulations to guarantee that certified disabled veterans receive ADPs before any other applicants in areas where demand exceeds the available permits. The legislation mandates the establishment of an application process that will include clear criteria for verifying a veteran's disability status, which must be certified by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). This means that disabled veterans will have a guaranteed opportunity to obtain these special hunting permits, even in competitive permit allocation scenarios. The bill is designed to provide a specific benefit to disabled veterans who wish to hunt antlerless deer, recognizing their service and potential mobility challenges. The legislation would take effect immediately upon passage, ensuring prompt implementation of these new hunting permit priorities for disabled veterans.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1017