Takko, Braun seek constitutional protection for hunting, fishing

[jackelope]

Two Southwest Washington lawmakers want to make hunting and fishing a constitutional right, hoping that Washington becomes the 22nd state to protect both activities in its constitution.


A proposal by state Sens. Dean Takko, D-Longview, and John Braun, R- Centralia, would preserve the right to use traditional means to hunt, fish and harvest wildlife, identifying them as the preferred method of wildlife management.


Takko says the effort is intended to prevent animal rights groups from harassing hunters and anglers. That has not been a big problem in Washington, but it has been in the Eastern states, where activists block roads, make noise to scare away game and do other things to impede hunting and fishing effort, Takko said.


“We (want) to protect the people who are out there hunting. It’s a right that we have,” Takko said.
 
In a prepared statement, Braun said, “Hunting is a major part of our state’s heritage and a generations-old activity for many families in the Pacific Northwest. Sportsmen constantly see more government regulations affecting where and how they can hunt or fish. As demand for public lands increases, they want to know their rights are respected and protected.”


More:
http://tdn.com/news/takko-braun-seek-constitutional-protection-for-hunting-fishing/article_bc5fc2f4-b88d-5b38-aeab-e3ae606fc6a0.html?utm_medium=social&utm_source=email&utm_campaign=user-share

[Special T]

I'm happy they are putting forth the effort. I wonder if they are about 20 years too late.

[bigtex]

It would be interesting if they can get the simple majority to get this passed in an election.

For some reason I think it'd be an uphill battle, especially if you include hunting. Too many anti-hunting types out there.

[Bofire]

I think this change requires 2/3 vote. ?? I have read this change before it is one line, very few words.
Caarl

[jackelope]

I think this change requires 2/3 vote. ?? I have read this change before it is one line, very few words.
Caarl

From the article...
"To become part of the Washington Constitution, the proposal would have to get a two-thirds majority in both houses of the Legislature and then be submitted to a statewide vote of the electorate. A simple majority would have to agree to add it to Constitution."

[whacker1]

Glad to see the bi-partisan effort.  I respect both of these law makers.  Whether it passes with 2/3rds or not, I am happy to see the dialogue transpiring.

[garrett89]

Should just make it a felony to harass someone trying to harvest food/make it legal to shoot said tree hugger for safety reasons.

[Stein]

Should just make it a felony to harass someone trying to harvest food/make it legal to shoot said tree hugger for safety reasons.

Hate crime, ever see the videos of those crazies?  Much hate there.

[garrett89]

Should just make it a felony to harass someone trying to harvest food/make it legal to shoot said tree hugger for safety reasons.

Hate crime, ever see the videos of those crazies?  Much hate there.

Yeah. They take things too far to a point you have to protect yourself.

[fisheral87]

Isnt it already illegal to interfere with a lawful hunt, why don't they enforce the law on the books?

Al

[bigtex]

Isnt it already illegal to interfere with a lawful hunt, why don't they enforce the law on the books?

Al

This has nothing to do with interfering with a lawful hunt but rather politicians in 10 years saying you can't hunt at all.

[fisheral87]

Then way lie about the intent?

Al

[csaaphill]

Good thing people should support it.