Post by: huntrights on May 31, 2012, 08:28:21 PM
Other states are doing it. It is not an easy process, but it can be done as has been shown in other states. Proper wording in the legislation, timing, and public support are critical. This topic thread is meant to keep the subject on our radar.
When the time comes, there will likely be a flood of propaganda from anti-hunting and animal-rights organizations. These organizations have very obvious and demonstrated objectives to eliminate hunting, fishing, and trapping altogether. They have also been attacking farming and ranching activities in various ways.
People have the right to hunt, fish, trap, farm, and ranch. This is not just an issue about protecting and defending "sporting activities", "hobbies", or "recreational pastimes"; it's about protecting our heritage and traditions that have been at the core of our survival since mankind walked this earth. It's about the right of pursuing sustenance (food) by hunting, fishing, trapping, farming, and ranching. Without these activities established as rights, people may be forced to depend on retail, corporate, government, or charity food distribution as their primary sources of sustenance if these “privileges” are suddenly taken away or improperly managed and regulated.
These activities should still be managed/regulated based on sound and unbiased science (i.e. harvest limits, seasons, land use, etc.) to ensure healthy and sustainable wildlife populations along with proper management of the resources used by farming and ranching. This is an issue of rights versus privileges; there is a significant difference between the two. The government and its emissaries are obligated to protect and defend rights versus the giving and taking of privileges on a whim depending on the current political climate.
The following link is a good resource for national updates on the subject:
State Constitutional Right to Hunt and Fish
http://www.ncsl.org/research/environment-and-natural-resources/state-constitutional-right-to-hunt-and-fish.aspx
Post by: bearpaw on May 31, 2012, 08:44:49 PM
Post by: Bean Counter on May 31, 2012, 08:49:02 PM
Be advised that a similar measure failed in Arizona last year. WA being a state chock full of f-tard liberal Nazis means that you have am even bigger hill to climb. Good luck.
Post by: KFhunter on May 31, 2012, 10:33:09 PM
case in point was fishing in BC couple years ago, clipped fin fish could be kept but intact had to be released. So we'd catch five intact fish for every clipped fish.
Of the five released per one kept maybe one or two would survive, seals and sharks would eat the rest.
stupid
Post by: KillBilly on June 01, 2012, 03:21:54 AM
It should happen for the upcoming Biennium.
Post by: Elkaholic daWg on June 01, 2012, 06:46:59 AM
I support this measure. If we are a free nation then our pursuits, however regulated by the government.should be viewed as rights recognized by the.state and not privileges granted.
Be advised that a similar measure failed in Arizona last year. WA being a state chock full of f-tard liberal Nazis means that you have am even bigger hill to climb. Good luck.
Yes Wa will be an uphill battle with that.
How strange that this gets posted now. I have an ongoing dialogue with one of our Legislators to sponsor a new bill to make Hunting and fishing a right.
It should happen for the upcoming Biennium.
We will know soon
Post by: Mudman on June 01, 2012, 07:04:29 AM
Post by: JLS on June 01, 2012, 07:31:36 AM
I totally agree with this but It seems to me that using time and resource to push this would be a giant waste of time. I do not believe there is a snowballs chance in H-ll that the liberals in this state would ever pass this. Our time would be better spent getting these liberals out of office so we could push things like this. Depressing I know but it is reality. The only way is with voter inituatives. Like I always say we should take Tim Eyman hunting!
Given the fact that the majority of the state's population is rather liberal, it would seem there would be a much higher probability of passing and INTELLIGENTLY marketed bill about hunting and fishing instead of living in the dream world that you are going to rid Olympia of all liberal politicians.
There is a small minority of anti hunters, and a small minority of hunters. The large portion in the middle are the folks that you need to appeal to in a sensible and reasoned manner.
Post by: Mudman on June 01, 2012, 07:35:51 AM
Ya thats a good point. I pray you are right but am skeptical.I totally agree with this but It seems to me that using time and resource to push this would be a giant waste of time. I do not believe there is a snowballs chance in H-ll that the liberals in this state would ever pass this. Our time would be better spent getting these liberals out of office so we could push things like this. Depressing I know but it is reality. The only way is with voter inituatives. Like I always say we should take Tim Eyman hunting!
Given the fact that the majority of the state's population is rather liberal, it would seem there would be a much higher probability of passing and INTELLIGENTLY marketed bill about hunting and fishing instead of living in the dream world that you are going to rid Olympia of all liberal politicians.
There is a small minority of anti hunters, and a small minority of hunters. The large portion in the middle are the folks that you need to appeal to in a sensible and reasoned manner.
Post by: Wenatcheejay on June 01, 2012, 07:56:30 AM
I agree, a few other states are starting to pass legislation, WA should too. :tup:
+1
Post by: Feanix on June 01, 2012, 09:27:14 AM
I totally agree with this but It seems to me that using time and resource to push this would be a giant waste of time. I do not believe there is a snowballs chance in H-ll that the liberals in this state would ever pass this. Our time would be better spent getting these liberals out of office so we could push things like this. Depressing I know but it is reality. The only way is with voter inituatives. Like I always say we should take Tim Eyman hunting!
The only scenario that guarantees failure is never trying.
Post by: pianoman9701 on June 01, 2012, 09:58:00 AM
I totally agree with this but It seems to me that using time and resource to push this would be a giant waste of time. I do not believe there is a snowballs chance in H-ll that the liberals in this state would ever pass this. Our time would be better spent getting these liberals out of office so we could push things like this. Depressing I know but it is reality. The only way is with voter inituatives. Like I always say we should take Tim Eyman hunting!
The only scenario that guarantees failure is never trying.
:yeah:x2
Post by: Mudman on June 01, 2012, 01:35:54 PM
Post by: Wenatcheejay on June 01, 2012, 04:20:16 PM
Yes not trying is failure. I merely suggest we approach it from different angle... Noboby has responed to a voter iniatative(spelling?) idea for things like this. I think it is the only way we can achieve goals. The people are more likely to support hunters than legislators who are influenced by wdfw and :tree1:. How do others feel on this idea? Can you achieve const. amendments this way?
I'm all for it but the cost to get anything on the ballot is very expensive.
If (IF) we have a changing of the guard in Olympia there may be a chance that there are some changes. Moving ideology from a privilege to a right would be a huge change in philosophy. Js's (OP) move to do that would be the my to go :twocents:
Post by: KyleMB123 on June 01, 2012, 05:55:04 PM
Post by: TheHunt on June 01, 2012, 09:12:28 PM
Post by: huntrights on June 02, 2012, 08:07:50 AM
How strange that this gets posted now. I have an ongoing dialogue with one of our Legislators to sponsor a new bill to make Hunting and fishing a right.
It should happen for the upcoming Biennium.
Based on the response to the initial post, I would say there is support in the hunting community to seriously pursue this endeavor. Educating the hunting and fishing community of the fact that our hunting and fishing "rights" are actually considered privileges in this state is an important step to get people to understand we need Constitutional protection of these activities or the “anti’s” will continue to chip away at them. As mentioned in the NRA-ILA article, the model for proposing Constitutional rights to hunt and fish seems to improve with experience gained in each state:
http://www.nraila.org/hunting/articles/four-more-states-propose-right-to-hunt.aspx
“… Our most recent effort focused on Arizona. NRA worked diligently with game and fish department officials for three months prior to the legislative session to arrive at mutually acceptable language. The commission voted 4-1 to support the amendment. Arizona’s language is excellent. Word by word, NRA’s model seems to improve with the experience garnered in each state.
With that said, there are six core tenets that we believe should be a part of any comprehensive constitutional protection regardless of how the specific language reads once the negotiations are over. These tenets are:
• Recognition of an individual right to hunt, fish and harvest game
• Preservation of the state’s power to regulate these activities for scientific— not political or emotional—reasons (the 19th century showed us what happens when there is little or no regulation)
• Preemption of the kind of local regulation that frustrates comprehensive, statewide wildlife management
• Protection of traditional hunting methods like archery tackle and bird dogs
• Recognition of hunting and fishing as a preferred means of managing wildlife in order to protect against dangerous contraception schemes and unwarranted use of government “sharpshooters”
• Clarification that private property rights are not affected or diminished
Arizona Proposition 109
Hunting, fishing and harvesting wildlife
Section 36 A. The citizens of this state have a right to hunt, fish and harvest wildlife lawfully. Wildlife belongs to this state and is held in trust for the benefit of the citizens of this state.
B. Exclusive authority to enact laws to regulate the manner, methods or seasons for hunting, fishing and harvesting wildlife is vested in the legislature, which may delegate rule-making authority to a game and fish commission. No law shall be enacted and no rule shall be adopted that unreasonably restricts hunting, fishing and harvesting wildlife or the use of traditional means and methods. Laws and rules authorized under this section shall have the purpose of wildlife conservation and management and preserving the future of hunting and fishing.
C. Lawful public hunting and fishing shall be a preferred means of managing and controlling wildlife.
D. This section shall not be construed to modify any provision of common law or statutes relating to trespass or property rights. …”
I encourage you to read the entire article.
That said, Killbilly has indicated there are conversations taking place with one of our legislators regarding this subject; that is great news. This will be an incremental process that must be pursued carefully with help from those that have traveled the path. Obviously we need the support of the public. As we build momentum, we will need the help of the NRA as they are the most experienced in working with state fish and wildlife departments on this subject. As Killbilly also mentioned, the process may take some time. Keep your eyes on this post as the efforts continue; add to it as you learn more about these efforts in our state and around the country.
As with all efforts to protect our freedoms, each and every one of you will need to step up to the plate and give your support. The most important first step for all is to believe we can make it happen. We can make it happen because it is the right thing to do. You must have confidence in the power of a united front of hunters and fishermen. Get the word out to your family, friends, and colleagues; this effort must become a goal for all of them.
Post by: All-Day on June 02, 2012, 10:43:14 AM
Kurt
Post by: Humptulips on June 02, 2012, 11:04:51 AM
I actually think you would have better luck in the Legislature then convincing the public.
Post by: Mudman on June 02, 2012, 05:45:48 PM
Post by: huntrights on June 03, 2012, 06:16:39 PM
People have the right to hunt, fish, trap, farm, and ranch. This is not just an issue about protecting and defending "sporting" activities or "hobbies"; it's about protecting our heritage and traditions that have been at the core of our survival since mankind walked this earth. It's about the right of pursuing sustenance (food) by hunting, fishing, trapping, farming, and ranching.
The current anti-hunting and anti-fishing sentiment appears to be an emotional byproduct of prosperity. People in this country and in other developed countries have easy access to all the food they could ever want via grocery stores, restaurants, mini-markets, etc. Most people are meat eaters, but yet many of those meat eaters have anti-hunting attitudes. Of course those people are hypocrites because they are merely paying someone else to harvest, clean, package, and deliver their favorite meats to the local retail outlets where they shop or eat.
There are also others that have become so disconnected from reality that they don’t know that chicken wings were part of a whole chicken that was once alive, or they think milk comes from factories not realizing there are dairy cows involved. This is no joke folks; there are people out there like this.
Some of the comments in this thread have undertones of looking at this endeavor as a nearly impossible task. If people start out on a quest of any kind with their minds preset to failure, they will most certainly fail. Landing on the moon was viewed as an impossible task until people made up their minds it could be done by working together; we got there. Know what the goal is, and why it is there. This will be a long term goal, and not an easy one to attain. A key phrase mentioned several times is “working together”; this ties in to a very well-known phrase: “United we stand, divided we fall”. Change that a bit for this situation: “United we succeed, divided we fail”. Be ready to work together on this, and be unwavering in your resolve to succeed.
Post by: TheHunt on June 03, 2012, 06:18:08 PM
Post by: Humptulips on June 03, 2012, 06:45:56 PM
I'd have to see the language. Take a lot of thought to get the wording right.
Post by: huntrights on June 03, 2012, 08:38:26 PM
I think the thing that discourages me is the antis don't have to outlaw hunting or fishing to take it away. Look what happened to trapping. If we had a constitutional amendment to guarentee trapping it wouldn't have changed anything. We can still trap. They just took away our tools. Same thing with houndmen. You can still hunt bear and cats but that sounds pretty hollow if you have an empty dog box in the back of the truck.
I'd have to see the language. Take a lot of thought to get the wording right.
They (the anti's) are chipping away at our freedoms a little at a time; many people don't realize that. The key to our success is to get us ALL of us involved to push back against these attacks with a unified front. We all must work together; ALL of us must take a stand. There is no room for APATHY. Those of you that believe others will fight the battles for you better wake up and stand with the rest of us to fight for what you believe in. The threats to our freedoms to hunt and fish are greater than ever before.
All hunters and fishermen, regardless of the tools they use, absolutely must work together in this state and around the country to protect our rights. An attack on one of us is an attack on ALL of us. We ALL must respond to these attacks as if each and every one of them affects each of us directly.
“United we stand, divided we fall”, or “United we succeed, divided we fail.” Every hunter and fisherman out there needs to decide if they are going to fight for their rights, or if they will do nothing until the problem is in their back yard and it’s too late. The freedoms lost with using hounds for hunting bear and cougar, and the trapping losses have been due to emotionally based propaganda disseminated by animal rights groups; there is no sound/valid science behind these regulations.
There are several local, state, and national organizations that are trying to fight for our rights, but they can’t operate without funding or a strong membership. Those of you reading this forum string should ask yourselves how many of them do you belong to, or contribute to. Here are a few to consider: National Rifle Association, U.S. Sportsmen’s Alliance, Second Amendment Foundation, Freedom Foundation, Washington Waterfowl Association, Thurston County Farm Bureau, Washington for Wildlife, Safari Club International, Washingtonians for Wildlife Conservation, and Hunter’s Heritage Council. These are just some of the organizations that I know of that have stepped up to the plate to help bad proposed legislation or regulations.
A united, organized effort put forth by individuals, and pro-hunting/pro-fishing organizations can make hunting and fishing Constitutional rights in our state. The same united, organized efforts by the same individuals and organizations can successfully fight against unjustified attacks on our hunting and fishing freedoms if we mobilize as soon as the threats are known. We have lost bits and pieces of our freedoms because we have not been operating as a unified group.
Post by: Mudman on June 03, 2012, 09:21:25 PM
Post by: pianoman9701 on June 04, 2012, 07:07:06 AM
I stated this at the beginning of this thread:
"Hunting, fishing, and foraging for food are GOD given rights, not privileges; we merely manage the harvest to ensure there is enough for the future. Even if you don’t want to make a religious connection to the activities, the fact is: Mankind has been hunting, fishing, and foraging for food since the beginning of mankind."
The current anti-hunting and anti-fishing sentiment is an emotional byproduct of prosperity; people in this country and in other developed countries have easy access to all the food they could ever want via grocery stores, restaurants, minimarkets, etc. Most people are meat eaters, but yet many of those meat eaters have anti-hunting attitudes. Of course those people are hypocrites because they are merely paying someone else to harvest, clean, package, and deliver their favorite meats to the local retail outlets where they shop or eat.
There are also others that have become so disconnected that they don’t know that chicken wings were part of a whole chicken that was once alive, or they think milk comes from factories not realizing there are dairy cows involved. This is no joke folks; there are people out there like this.
Some of the comments I have read in this thread have undertones of looking at this endeavor as a nearly impossible task. If people start out on a quest of any kind with their minds preset to failure, they will most certainly fail. Landing on the moon was viewed as an impossible task until people made up their minds it could be done by working together; we got there and I watched it happen. Many people said there was no way we would defeat the proposed Thurston County No Shooting Zone Ordinance and we would have to fight it in court. Instead of giving up, we worked together and successfully defeated the proposed ordinance. Know what the goal is, and why it is there. This will be a long term goal, and not an easy one to attain. A key phrase mentioned several times is “working together”; this ties in to a very well-known phrase: “United we stand, divided we fall”. We can change that a bit for our situation: “United we succeed, divided we fail”. Be ready to work together on this, and be unwavering in your resolve to succeed.
Like it or not, according to state law, they are privileges. A change to the state constitution is the only thing that makes them a right, legally. Hunters need to get involved to make our hunting and fishing privileges a right.
Post by: All-Day on June 04, 2012, 01:50:37 PM
I did not mean to sound so discouraging :sry: in my last post and was politely corrected today! Thank you.
Post by: bearpaw on June 04, 2012, 01:58:05 PM
may I suggest a small change in language:
• Protection of traditional hunting methods like archery tackle and
Post by: All-Day on June 04, 2012, 02:47:15 PM
Post by: buckfvr on June 04, 2012, 02:52:04 PM
Post by: All-Day on June 04, 2012, 02:54:40 PM
Washington State Constitution, Article I, Declaration Of Rights, Section 1.;
Political Power.
All political power is inherent IN THE PEOPLE, and the governments derive their just powers from THE CONSENT OF THE GOVERNED, and are established to PROTECT AND MAINTAIN INDIVIDUAL RIGHTS.
Post by: huntrights on June 08, 2012, 07:45:53 AM
jshunt, you are on the right track.... :tup:
may I suggest a small change in language:
• Protection of traditional hunting methods like archery tackle andbirdhunting dogs
I agree. I am not sure why the minimum tenets recommended by the NRA did not include more hunting methods. Obviously, the use of firearms should be included as well.
There will be a lot of work to do, but if we ALL remain steadfast in our resolve to succeed, we should be able to make this happen. This year is our chance to vote people into office that will support such a measure. This is also the year we need to make sure the anti-gun and anti-hunter representatives do not get elected to another term.
Post by: huntrights on June 08, 2012, 09:30:35 AM
No quote of the Constitution is complete without this part!!
Washington State Constitution, Article I, Declaration Of Rights, Section 1.;
Political Power.
All political power is inherent IN THE PEOPLE, and the governments derive their just powers from THE CONSENT OF THE GOVERNED, and are established to PROTECT AND MAINTAIN INDIVIDUAL RIGHTS.
Our Constitution is extremely clear in describing the intent of "political power". If we ALL would continuously remind our representatives that their JOB is to "PROTECT AND MAINTAIN INDIVIDUAL RIGHTS" perhaps we might stop having our freedoms whittled away. If our representatives cannot abide by our Constitution, then they need to be fired immediately. Keep a close watch on what they are doing; demand that they "PROTECT AND MAINTAIN INDIVIDUAL RIGHTS".
This is why hunting and fishing must become Constitutional rights. "Privileges can be taken away with the swipe of a pen."
Post by: All-Day on June 16, 2012, 12:08:29 PM
Even if we can't win the fight to make hunting a right in this state at least we are fighting that battle rather than some other battle that might result in more anti-hunting legislation being passed. We should drag this thing out as long as possible to draw all anti-hunting attention to this and distract the tree huggers from going after what we currently have. I think it's a win win. As long as we choose the battlefield we can never lose.Thanks Kyle. Well said. But... We can win. The other states that has done it are far better off for it!!
Post by: All-Day on June 16, 2012, 12:18:00 PM
"Privileges can be taken away with the swipe of a pen."How TRUE!! There are many that would support that swipe! I still believe that we out number them! Convincing the non hunters may be our second biggest hurdle.
Kurt
Post by: huntrights on July 04, 2012, 05:01:35 PM
http://hunting-washington.com/smf/index.php?topic=100255.0
Post by: huntrights on July 05, 2012, 09:10:43 AM
http://5newsonline.com/2012/07/03/why-hunting-your-own-dinner-is-an-ethical-way-to-eat/
Post by: pianoman9701 on July 09, 2012, 04:44:46 PM
How strange that this gets posted now. I have an ongoing dialogue with one of our Legislators to sponsor a new bill to make Hunting and fishing a right.
It should happen for the upcoming Biennium.
Al, Paul Harris has voiced a desire to look at sponsoring this legislation. Please email me with specifics. Thanks,
John
Post by: Atroxus on July 09, 2012, 05:06:32 PM
Sent from my DROID BIONIC using Tapatalk 2
Post by: pianoman9701 on July 10, 2012, 06:44:43 AM
I could totally get behind that idea. Who would I have to pester to help get it moving forward?
Sent from my DROID BIONIC using Tapatalk 2
This would have to be a humongous effort and totally coordinated. It requires a super majority of the House and the Senate to get it on the ballot for a vote of the people. Once it gets on the ballot, the real fighting begins, with anti-hunting groups dumping a bunch of money into defeating it.
I would say start talking to your reps and senators now to let them know a coordinated effort hasn't begun, but to keeo this on their radar. When the time comes, we will need reps to sponsor the bill.
Post by: jackmaster on July 10, 2012, 06:57:58 AM
Post by: Special T on July 10, 2012, 07:10:19 AM
I like the idea of sending a message, However I need to know why we have to climb the mountain instead of driving straight at the heart of the matter.
I would imagine it would take lawsuits regardless of making int a right in order to turn back some of this nonsenses, that and a new Gov. :twocents:
Post by: pianoman9701 on July 10, 2012, 07:19:29 AM
i am far from being educated in the political ways of getting issues on the ballot, but why is it expensive? isnt the only thing we gotta do is get enough signatures, i will volunteer my time to get signatures, i dont want to lose my huntn and fishn rights, but i would like to see these van loads of brush pickers, the ones that dont give a crap about are forest lands regulated a bit, i have no clue what anyone would need a truck load of braken ferns,sword ferns, and what ever else that can rip out of the eart, and forget mushrooms after those families go through there, most of you know who i am talkn about, but with people these days if i juist straight up say it i will be labelled as a friggin racist, i like this site to much to get banned for that.. :twocents: :chuckle:
The fight in other states has shown that HSUS and the Defenders of Wildlife will spend millions of dollars in advertising to defeat an amendment which mandates hunting and fishing rights. If we aren't organized, these two organizations will be the only ones talking to the 96% of voters who don't hunt in WA. This would be a huge mistake.If we try and fail, we'll likely not get another chance. Once the people vote against, very few politicians will buck the majority to stick their neck out a second time.
Post by: Elkaholic daWg on July 10, 2012, 09:04:19 AM
If so, why do we bother with elections to be represented to do these things?
Now I could see where the if legislature passed it, and THEN the huggers put up petition drives and get it on the ballot.
We would be better off if it didn't come up for a public vote
Post by: pianoman9701 on July 10, 2012, 09:24:32 AM
I'm wondering where it is written in stone that it must be on the ballot to be put into place.
If so, why do we bother with elections to be represented to do these things?
Now I could see where the if legislature passed it, and THEN the huggers put up petition drives and get it on the ballot.
We would be better off if it didn't come up for a public vote
It's part of the Constitution. It's done that way so some lame-ass politician can't decide to take our rights away without due process with many safeguards.
Post by: huntrights on July 11, 2012, 09:18:35 AM
In addition to creating the united front, each and every one of us must become actively involved in politics, making sure we support representatives that are pro-hunting and pro-fishing. It is absolutely crucial that we vote the anti-hunters out of office. If they are willing to take away an activity that ensured our survival as a species since the beginning of mankind, what’s next? In order to solidify our right to hunt and fish via an amendment in the Constitution, we need to support, and vote for representatives that will protect our privileges (should be rights) to hunt and fish. Responsible wildlife management, based on sound and unbiased science, will ensure healthy wildlife populations for us and future generations. Current and future representatives need to know we are fed up with anti-hunting and anti-fishing legislation/regulations based on fuzzy/manipulated science and/or emotional outbursts from the general public brought on by propaganda from extremist animal-rights and anti-hunting organizations.
All of you need to make sure you, your family, your friends, and your colleagues vote for representatives that will fight to protect our rights, not take them away. Every one of us absolutely must vote; not to vote is really a vote for anti-hunting. If you can make financial contributions to the campaigns supporting pro-hunting candidates, please do so. Rest assured the anti-hunter representatives are receiving significant contributions from the extremist animal rights groups. We must push back with greater numbers and resources; as a united front, we can do this.
Post by: huntrights on July 11, 2012, 12:11:40 PM
http://www.youtube.com/watch_popup?v=GBaHPND2QJg&feature=youtu.be
Post by: bearpaw on July 11, 2012, 02:16:18 PM
Post by: Special T on July 11, 2012, 03:13:03 PM
I think this could be the right idea, but i am skeptical of working with the WDFW in order to pass this. Why would the WDFW that has Regulated our activities in a nonsensical way actually help us? Its already in the WDFW mandate that they must use the best available science to manage game in this state. So when they take away our ability to hunt coyotes with the aid of dogs, or Make the harvest goals for cougars much lower than data supports. How would our recourse change? How come they cannot be held accountable NOW?
I like the idea of sending a message, However I need to know why we have to climb the mountain instead of driving straight at the heart of the matter.
I would imagine it would take lawsuits regardless of making int a right in order to turn back some of this nonsenses, that and a new Gov. :twocents:
Post by: All-Day on July 11, 2012, 03:33:24 PM
Check out what is happening with the UN. Clinton is just days away from signing our rights away with another treaty. Obama is embracing it. A State constitution will be our only ammo against those that won't be happy until America is a third world country.
http://www.dickmorris.com/d-day-for-gun-control/ (http://www.dickmorris.com/d-day-for-gun-control/) Check it out.
Kurt
Post by: Special T on July 11, 2012, 03:36:27 PM
Post by: huntrights on July 11, 2012, 04:10:46 PM
I'm not saying its a bad idea, I just don't an admendment will fix everything... I think its all about those running the department myself. :twocents:
Special T,
There is no "Silver Bullet" solution to anything. What we need to do is continually take positive steps to protect our rights; the Constitution is one of the best ways we can do this. In this case, hunting and fishing are currently only considered privileges; that makes them an easy target for anti-hunting extremists. Please take note of how these privileges are under constant attack in our state, and around the country.
Your comments are important; it shows that there may be some people out there that don’t understand why this long-term goal is so important to pursue. As you give this topic additional thought, please share those thoughts so we can work together toward creating a solid united front. If there is doubt in our ranks, we need to understand why that doubt exists. What pieces of information are missing that might create a clear understanding among all of us?
Of utmost importance, in the immediate future, is the 2012 election. Initially, some response posts wondered why this subject was coming up when the elections are far more important. In order to make hunting and fishing Constitutional rights, we must have a legislature that will support such a measure. The only way to do this is by voting the anti-hunters out and the pro-hunters in. The hunting population needs to make that connection.
Hunting and fishing are our heritage; they are in the basic foundation of human rights. We just manage the harvest to ensure healthy wildlife populations for us and future generations. Unfortunately, propaganda disseminated by extremist animal rights organizations and easy access to food has detached many people from their roots. People need to understand that hunting and fishing are indeed rights and that we need our government to recognize that fact.
Post by: Special T on July 11, 2012, 04:43:13 PM
Governor, State reps and senators, WDFW leadership, Constitutional amendment.
I also understand that if you start a issue BEFORE the election it can be determined that the CHANGE was a reason for their election...
I'm glad you see this discussion as a chance to flesh out a great argument for making it a right not a privilege.
Post by: buckfvr on July 11, 2012, 04:48:47 PM
Post by: huntrights on July 11, 2012, 06:56:13 PM
The most important components of this effort are the People; you, me, all hunters, all fishermen, those that don’t have an opinion, and even those that think they are anti-hunting. I believe all of the People need to be involved in this from the start. How else will we know where the misconceptions, gaps in knowledge, and misinformation are? We need to understand the cultural landscape and political undercurrents.
This post is getting a lot of hits. That means the word is getting out there.
Post by: All-Day on July 11, 2012, 09:22:09 PM
I'm not saying its a bad idea, I just don't an amendment will fix everything... I think its all about those running the department myself. :twocents:Remember, the Governor appoints the WDFW Commission. Like JSHunt said, we need some pro shooter/hunter in our government. Without that the fight for our rights will be a lot more difficult.
Post by: Special T on July 12, 2012, 03:56:34 PM
Post by: All-Day on July 12, 2012, 08:15:20 PM
Post by: Special T on July 13, 2012, 07:58:28 AM
http://www.ncsl.org/issues-research/env-res/state-constitutional-right-to-hunt-and-fish.aspx (http://www.ncsl.org/issues-research/env-res/state-constitutional-right-to-hunt-and-fish.aspx)
http://www.fieldandstream.com/blogs/hunting/2010/09/right-hunt-state-constitutions-amendments-called-unnecessary-animal-rights-gro (http://www.fieldandstream.com/blogs/hunting/2010/09/right-hunt-state-constitutions-amendments-called-unnecessary-animal-rights-gro)
http://www.ammoland.com/2012/06/01/four-more-states-propose-right-to-hunt-and-fish-constitutional-amendments/#axzz20VxQjXya (http://www.ammoland.com/2012/06/01/four-more-states-propose-right-to-hunt-and-fish-constitutional-amendments/#axzz20VxQjXya)
Post by: huntrights on July 13, 2012, 09:40:42 AM
http://www.ncsl.org/issues-research/env-res/state-constitutional-right-to-hunt-and-fish.aspx
“Opponents state that these provisions clutter a constitution and overstate the threat to these activities, while possibly limiting or increasing the amount and severity of restrictions that can be placed on sportsmen activities. The Humane Society states, ““The constitution should guarantee fundamental democratic rights, not provide protection for a recreational pastime."”
Excerpt from:
http://www.nraila.org/hunting/articles/four-more-states-propose-right-to-hunt.aspx
“As a reminder of what we are all up against, HSUS spends more than $120 million each year lobbying and litigating against hunting, science-based wildlife management (i.e. delisting of healthy wolf populations in the Rocky Mountains and Great Lakes), pet ownership and animal agriculture. It is likely this number will grow dramatically this fiscal year as it is nearly impossible to watch television (Fox News Channel in particular) without seeing HSUS ’ President, Wayne Pacelle, misleading Americans into contributing “... just $19 a month … to eliminate animal cruelty everywhere.” Contrary to donors’ perceptions, the Center for Consumer Freedom reports that less than one percent of the group’s enormous annual budget actually goes to hands-on animal care shelters.
Pacelle has told the Associated Press, “If we could shut down all sport hunting in a moment, we would.” He provided further detail with regard to his incremental strategy borrowed from the gun prohibitionists when he told the Bozeman Daily Chronicle, “Our goal is to get sport hunting in the same category as cock fighting and dog fighting.[”]”
Excerpt from:
http://www.fieldandstream.com/blogs/hunting/2010/09/right-hunt-state-constitutions-amendments-called-unnecessary-animal-rights-gro
“Animal rights activists, however, say it's all unnecessary. “It’s a solution in search of a problem," said Michael Markarian, chief operating officer for The Humane Society of the United States. "These measures don't accomplish anything."”
Let’s take a look at the threats to our rights and a couple of the arguments against making hunting and fishing Constitutional Rights that are quoted above.
"The constitution should guarantee fundamental democratic rights, not provide protection for a recreational pastime."
As stated in the post that started this topic:
"People have the right to hunt, fish, trap, farm, and ranch. This is not just an issue about protecting and defending "sporting" activities or "hobbies"; it's about protecting our heritage and traditions that have been at the core of our survival since mankind walked this earth. It's about the right of pursuing sustenance (food) by hunting, fishing, trapping, farming, and ranching."
Hunting, fishing, and foraging for food is an irrefutable right of each and every living creature including human beings; whether the hunting, fishing, and foraging is done in a grocery store or in the wild. Many animal rights and anti-hunting extremists may spend countless hours foraging for mushrooms, berries, and other natural edibles in the wild, but they will incessantly and ironically/hypocritically push to take away our rights to hunt and fish in the wild. What would they say, or do, if foraging for their favorite natural edibles in the wild were restricted to grocery stores? What if they were forced to purchase and consume only food that had been harvested, cleaned, and packaged by others; their rights to forage in the wild taken away?
The point is that hunting and fishing in the wild is not, and cannot be labeled as just a “recreational pastime”. It is our right to make a personal choice to obtain our food via hunting and fishing in the wild in concert with responsible wildlife management based on sound and unbiased science.
Animal rights organizations spend millions of dollars constantly trying to take away our rights to hunt and fish in the wild. The threats are real, they have been there for many years, and they continue to grow and be clear and present dangers to our rights.
“Pacelle has told the Associated Press, “If we could shut down all sport hunting in a moment, we would.” He provided further detail with regard to his incremental strategy borrowed from the gun prohibitionists when he told the Bozeman Daily Chronicle, “Our goal is to get sport hunting in the same category as cock fighting and dog fighting.””
“Animal rights activists, however, say it's all unnecessary. “It’s a solution in search of a problem," said Michael Markarian, chief operating officer for The Humane Society of the United States. "These measures don't accomplish anything."”
Be aware of what's happening!
The animal rights and anti-hunting organizations will downplay any attempts to make hunting and fishing Constitutional Rights because they don’t want you to have those rights; they want to take them away from you. It is their objective; they have clearly stated their goals and actively pursue reaching their goals. They will most likely flood the media with propaganda to defeat any attempts to make hunting and fishing Constitutional Rights. They will most likely give generous campaign contributions to representatives that will promote their agendas. The extremist animal rights and anti-hunting organizations and individuals are the problem and the reason we must make hunting and fishing Constitutional Rights.
We absolutely must be a UNITED FRONT of hunters, fishermen, and sportsmen with focus and commitment to make this happen. It will be difficult and will take time, but it can be done if we ALL work together.
Post by: Special T on July 13, 2012, 09:54:32 AM
Post by: bearpaw on July 13, 2012, 10:01:56 AM
Post by: huntrights on July 13, 2012, 10:48:10 AM
This is a response from NRA Hunter's Rights
--------
From: Hunters Rights [mailto:huntersrights@nrahq.org]
Sent: Friday, July 13, 2012 10:18 AM
Subject: RE: Constitutional Rights to Hunt and Fish
Many thanks for your message. We forwarded your message to our legislative staff for their review.
-------
Sent: Friday, July 13, 2012 10:12 AM
To: Hunters Rights
Subject: Constitutional Rights to Hunt and Fish
When the time comes, will you help us?
http://hunting-washington.com/smf/index.php?topic=98616.msg1313757#msg1313757 (http://hunting-washington.com/smf/index.php?topic=98616.msg1313757#msg1313757)
We are taking the first steps to educate hunters, fishermen, and all sportsmen about the need to make hunting and fishing Constitutional Rights in Washington State. Hunting and fishing should be Constitutional Rights in all states, but we need to take incremental steps.
Can you help us start to introduce the need and the idea to the people in the state of Washington. I encourage you to watch the video in the context of a good and common goal in addition to the dialog in the forum.
This will be a monumental task, but it can be done if we learn from the successes and failures in other states. Please help us make this happen.
Sincerely,
xxx
Olympia, Washington
Post by: Camp David on July 18, 2012, 08:20:42 AM
Post by: huntrights on July 18, 2012, 03:43:05 PM
Post by: All-Day on July 24, 2012, 12:03:39 PM
Post by: Special T on July 24, 2012, 02:18:55 PM
Post by: huntrights on July 24, 2012, 09:57:21 PM
Keep your eyes on this post for future updates and recommended actions.
Don't hesitate to share your thoughts.
Here's something to think about and look into:
13 states have made hunting and fishing Constitutional Rights. What were the critical elements that led to their success?
Post by: Special T on July 25, 2012, 08:10:03 AM
Post by: huntrights on July 25, 2012, 09:18:49 AM
Here are the 13 states:
http://www.ncsl.org/issues-research/env-res/state-constitutional-right-to-hunt-and-fish.aspx (http://www.ncsl.org/issues-research/env-res/state-constitutional-right-to-hunt-and-fish.aspx)
State Year of Adoption
Alabama 1996
Arkansas 2010
Georgia 2006
Louisiana 2004
Minnesota 1998
Montana 2004
North Dakota 2000
Oklahoma 2008
South Carolina 2010
Tennessee 2010
Vermont 1777
Virginia 2000
Wisconsin 2003
Post by: huntrights on July 27, 2012, 11:50:27 AM
Although this article came out on March 28, 2012, many people don't know about it. The more states that can make hunting and fishing Constitutional Rights, the better chance we have of doing the same in Washington. If you know family or friends in Idaho, please urge them to vote FOR this measure. This is their chance to get their rights clearly stated in the Idaho State Constitution. Ask them to spread the word.
Here is a link to the actual House Joint Resolution:
http://www.legislature.idaho.gov/legislation/2012/HJR002.htm
Here is the link to the NRA-ILA article:
http://www.nraila.org/hunting/issues-and-alerts/2012/3/idaho-right-to-hunt-and-fish-constitutional-amendment-passes-senate-and-will-be-on-november-ballot.aspx
"Idaho Right to Hunt and Fish Constitutional Amendment Passes Senate and Will Be on November Ballot
Posted on March 28, 2012
Yesterday, the Idaho Senate voted 31 to 3 to pass House Joint Resolution 2a, a much-needed constitutional amendment that would provide meaningful protections against anti-hunting activists who seek to ban all hunting in America. HJR 2a passed the House on March 22 by a 63 to 4 vote. HJR 2a will now be on the ballot for voter approval this November.
The NRA has been working with state House and Senate leadership to produce a robust constitutional amendment. Thanks to their efforts, HJR 2a contains most of the core tenets of the NRA’s model Right to Hunt language that have been developed over recent years.
For instance, HJR 2a, introduced by the House Ways and Means Committee, would guarantee the rights of Idahoans to hunt, fish, and harvest wildlife “by the use of traditional methods.” This would eliminate any opportunities for well-funded animal rights activists to ban the use of certain methods like archery tackle or dogs for hunting. In other jurisdictions, these radical groups have sought to ban these “cruel” and “unsporting” methods, and HJR 2a will help to ensure they do not succeed in Idaho.
In addition, HJR 2a specifies that hunting, fishing and harvesting of wildlife shall be used as a “preferred means” of managing and controlling wildlife. This provision would ensure that sportsmen will continue to be used as the state’s responsible game managers instead of the taxpayer-funded sharpshooters and unproven, expensive wildlife contraception schemes employed in other jurisdictions.
Thank you to all legislators who worked so hard to pass HJR 2a and to all NRA members who contacted their state Senator and Representative.
© 2012 National Rifle Association of America. Institute for Legislative Action. This may be reproduced. It may not be reproduced for commercial purposes.
11250 Waples Mill Rd. Fairfax, VA 22030 1800-392-8683(VOTE)"
Post by: huntrights on August 04, 2012, 12:17:00 PM
"25 Reasons Why 'Hunting is Conservation'"
http://www.rmef.org/Conservation/HuntingIsConservation/25ReasonsWhyHuntingIsConservation.aspx
These are some points we may tap into as we move forward with the effort to make hunting and fishing Constitutional Rights in Washington State.
Post by: huntrights on August 04, 2012, 12:24:38 PM
http://www.nraila.org/hunting/news/2012/3/right-to-hunt-and-fish-constitutional-amendments-will-be-on-the-ballot-in-idaho,-nebraska-and-kentucky-this-november!.aspx
If you know people in these states, please urge them to vote FOR these amendments.
Post by: huntrights on August 04, 2012, 12:38:27 PM
http://nraila.org/legislation/state-legislation/2012/4/mississippi-senate-passes-two-more-nra-supported-bills-this-week.aspx?s=%22Mississippi%22&st=&ps=
"HCR 30 was passed in the state Senate on Tuesday, and will now appear on the November 2014 ballot for voter approval. ..."
"HCR 30 is the NRA-backed right to hunt and fish constitutional amendment ..."
Other states are doing this. We can too.
Post by: huntrights on August 12, 2012, 01:04:54 PM
http://www.pahouse.com/PR/009_Sportsmen_Report_0412.pdf
"A move to make hunting, fishing a Constitutional right
Pennsylvanians certainly love to hunt and fish. But under the
Pennsylvania Constitution, those activities are considered a privilege,
not a right.
However, there’s a move in the state House to change that.
House Bill 575 would make hunting, fishing and trapping a
constitutionally protected right. It would amend Article I of the
Constitution, which defines the inherent rights of Pennsylvania’s citizens.
Those rights include religious freedom, the right to enjoy and defend
one’s life, the right to a trial by jury, freedom of press and speech,
security from searches and seizure, and the right to bear arms. ..."
Post by: huntrights on August 12, 2012, 04:51:04 PM
Wyoming:
http://soswy.state.wy.us/Elections/Docs/2012/2012BallotIssues.pdf
2012 General Election Ballot Issues
“Constitutional Amendment B
Following is the ballot language of Constitutional Amendment B as it will appear on the 2012
General Election ballot:
The adoption of this amendment will recognize and preserve the heritage of Wyoming
citizens' opportunity to fish, hunt and trap wildlife, subject to regulation as prescribed
by law.
A complete copy of 2011 Senate Enrolled Joint Resolution No. 3, Original Senate Joint
Resolution No. 0001 is attached. ...”
Help them get this passed by telling all you know in Wyoming to vote for it.
Post by: huntrights on August 12, 2012, 05:00:28 PM
http://www.nraila.org/hunting/news/2012/3/right-to-hunt-and-fish-constitutional-amendments-will-be-on-the-ballot-in-idaho,-nebraska-and-kentucky-this-november!.aspx
Excerpt from the NRA-ILA Article:
"Fairfax, Va. – The National Rifle Association's effort to preserve hunting and fishing for future generations has moved forward into Idaho and Nebraska. Right to Hunt and Fish Constitutional Amendments will be on the ballot in Idaho, Nebraska and Kentucky this November. The Kentucky Legislature passed an Amendment last year.
The NRA has led efforts to provide these truly meaningful constitutional protections for sportsmen across the country by preserving science-driven wildlife management and the North American Wildlife Conservation Model. The amendments offer specific defenses against efforts to incrementally destroy our hunting heritage by anti-hunting extremist organizations such as The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) and People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA). Nearly one-quarter of all states have adopted similar amendments.
"Hunting, fishing, and harvesting of wildlife are part of the American fabric," said Chris W. Cox, executive director for NRA's Institute for Legislative Action. "These constitutional amendments are a concerted effort by the NRA to help preserve America's rich hunting heritage that is increasingly under attack by well organized and well funded anti-hunting radicals. The stakes have never been higher. Voters in Idaho, Nebraska and Kentucky must go to the polls and vote to support our outdoor heritage."..."
Add Wyoming to the list for having it on their November 2012 ballot.
http://soswy.state.wy.us/Elections/Docs/2012/2012BallotIssues.pdf
Post by: pianoman9701 on August 29, 2012, 08:09:51 AM
PMan
Post by: huntrights on September 02, 2012, 06:26:38 PM
This organization in Idaho seems to have a good grasp of why we need to make hunting, fishing, and trapping Constitutional Rights.
http://www.huntersagainstpeta.com/tag/hunting-in-idaho
Post by: huntrights on September 10, 2012, 03:01:04 PM
"Wyoming voters face proposed constitutional amendment ratifying right to hunt, fish and trap"
http://www.therepublic.com/view/story/dec3d020677a405ea05ffb60f489c554/WY--Wyoming-Hunting
Post by: huntrights on September 21, 2012, 12:47:32 PM
http://rmefblog.blogspot.com/2012/09/hunter-vs-vegan-educational-lesson-in.html
Here is the direct YouTube link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J2N0Utg7KYE&feature=player_embedded
Post by: Special T on September 23, 2012, 05:47:30 PM
Post by: huntrights on October 05, 2012, 10:50:04 AM
The most important activities now are to make sure we elect the right people into public office that will protect our rights and freedoms. Those people will then help us to make hunting, fishing, and trapping Constitutional Rights in Washington State.
Please VOTE, and VOTE for the right people.
Post by: Special T on October 05, 2012, 08:31:59 PM
Post by: pianoman9701 on October 08, 2012, 05:04:19 AM
Remember that either would be a problem for your 2nd Amendment rights. Both would be a two-pronged assault.
Post by: huntrights on October 11, 2012, 12:38:45 PM
Please VOTE, and urge ALL of your family, friends, and colleagues to VOTE as well. Of course, VOTE for the people that are committed to protecting rights and freedoms.
http://www.robmckenna.org/debate
"THE GREAT DEBATE"
Rob McKenna vs. Jay Inslee
Thursday, October 11, 9PM
"Be sure to cheer on Rob in his debate against Congressman Inslee Thursday, October 11 at 9:00 after the VP debate! The debate will be moderated by WSU Professor and Pullman Mayor Glenn Johnson. Here's where you can watch it live: Seattle area viewers can tune into KIRO 7, KING 5, KOMO 4 or KCPQ 13. Spokane area viewers can tune into KREM 2, KHQ 6 or KXLY 4. Tri-Cities viewers can tune into KVEW 42. Yakima viewers can tune into KAPP 35. All Washington viewers can tune into NWCN."
Post by: csaaphill on October 11, 2012, 12:48:16 PM
Here's an interesting video on the RMEF Elk Tracks blog:ya kind of interesting I liked the comment about hunting as a natural thing like asking a wolf not to hunt. man kind hunts and is unatural for us not to I like that.
http://rmefblog.blogspot.com/2012/09/hunter-vs-vegan-educational-lesson-in.html
Here is the direct YouTube link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J2N0Utg7KYE&feature=player_embedded
Post by: huntrights on October 29, 2012, 10:38:05 PM
http://www.theolympian.com/2012/10/28/2300530/hunting-fishing-trapping-initiative.html
http://www.idahostatesman.com/2012/10/28/2326090/right-to-hunt-fish-trap-goes-to.html
http://journalstar.com/elections/put-hunting-fishing-in-state-constitution/article_3e3ad4d6-b2c8-5cbc-8275-a5d988f42bc2.html
http://missoulian.com/news/state-and-regional/idaho-ballot-includes-measure-declaring-constitutional-right-to-hunt-fish/article_6c812da4-2131-11e2-a989-0019bb2963f4.html
http://www.thewildlifenews.com/2012/10/22/hunting-fishing-trapping-to-become-constitutionally-protected-rights-in-idaho/
http://www.klkntv.com/story/19867091/should-hunting-and-fishing-be-a-constitiuonal-right
http://www.kentucky.com/2012/10/28/2387280/rep-leslie-combs-the-case-for.html
There are many more articles that have come out recently. Do an internet search on the topic. Be sure to add the year 2012 in the search.
Post by: huntrights on November 04, 2012, 08:20:01 PM
http://www.nraila.org/legislation/state-legislation/2012/10/kentucky-important-right-to-hunt-and-fish-amendment-needs-your-vote-on-november-6.aspx
http://www.nraila.org/hunting/vote/right-to-hunt-ne.aspx (http://www.nraila.org/hunting/vote/right-to-hunt-ne.aspx)
Post by: hunter360 on November 05, 2012, 11:26:30 AM
Post by: pianoman9701 on November 05, 2012, 11:39:28 AM
So, when Mkenna gets into office, lets all (everyone on this site) get together and go talk to him about this. What do you think?
I'd be right there. He has my name on his rolls.
Post by: hunter360 on November 05, 2012, 11:49:42 AM
So, when Mkenna gets into office, lets all (everyone on this site) get together and go talk to him about this. What do you think?
I'd be right there. He has my name on his rolls.
Me too. I have a friend that can arrange a meeting with him.......
Post by: pianoman9701 on November 05, 2012, 12:06:09 PM
Post by: hunter360 on November 05, 2012, 12:22:30 PM
Post by: pianoman9701 on November 05, 2012, 01:41:39 PM
I believe you are right.....but as someone pointed out already, the governer appoints wdfw people. If we talk to him.....we might have some influence on who gets in charge of wdfw :dunno:
That's a whole other topic of discussion, one which i had with Senator Benton just last Sunday a week ago. After his aid had written and told me that they don't oppose gubernatorial appointments out of courtesy, I went to the state GOP and asked about this. I never received a response, which further annoyed me. I was, of course, referring to the appointment of Jay Kehne to the Wildlife Commission. Mr. Kehne had spent the previous 3 years campaigning around the state as a proponent of the cuddly grey wolf and a board member of Conservation Northwest.
Post by: hunter360 on November 05, 2012, 01:49:24 PM
I believe you are right.....but as someone pointed out already, the governer appoints wdfw people. If we talk to him.....we might have some influence on who gets in charge of wdfw :dunno:
That's a whole other topic of discussion, one which i had with Senator Benton just last Sunday a week ago. After his aid had written and told me that they don't oppose gubernatorial appointments out of courtesy, I went to the state GOP and asked about this. I never received a response, which further annoyed me. I was, of course, referring to the appointment of Jay Kehne to the Wildlife Commission. Mr. Kehne had spent the previous 3 years campaigning around the state as a proponent of the cuddly grey wolf and a board member of Conservation Northwest.
Well, if you haven't got a response, let's go face to face with Mkenna if he gets elected. If we have the means, then why not right?
Post by: pianoman9701 on November 05, 2012, 02:40:03 PM
I believe you are right.....but as someone pointed out already, the governer appoints wdfw people. If we talk to him.....we might have some influence on who gets in charge of wdfw :dunno:
That's a whole other topic of discussion, one which i had with Senator Benton just last Sunday a week ago. After his aid had written and told me that they don't oppose gubernatorial appointments out of courtesy, I went to the state GOP and asked about this. I never received a response, which further annoyed me. I was, of course, referring to the appointment of Jay Kehne to the Wildlife Commission. Mr. Kehne had spent the previous 3 years campaigning around the state as a proponent of the cuddly grey wolf and a board member of Conservation Northwest.
Well, if you haven't got a response, let's go face to face with Mkenna if he gets elected. If we have the means, then why not right?
absolutely
Post by: CedarPants on November 05, 2012, 03:25:48 PM
I believe you are right.....but as someone pointed out already, the governer appoints wdfw people. If we talk to him.....we might have some influence on who gets in charge of wdfw :dunno:
That's a whole other topic of discussion, one which i had with Senator Benton just last Sunday a week ago. After his aid had written and told me that they don't oppose gubernatorial appointments out of courtesy, I went to the state GOP and asked about this. I never received a response, which further annoyed me. I was, of course, referring to the appointment of Jay Kehne to the Wildlife Commission. Mr. Kehne had spent the previous 3 years campaigning around the state as a proponent of the cuddly grey wolf and a board member of Conservation Northwest.
Well, if you haven't got a response, let's go face to face with Mkenna if he gets elected. If we have the means, then why not right?
absolutely
:yeah:
Post by: huntrights on November 07, 2012, 12:01:37 AM
Kentucky:
"Constitutional amendment to protect hunting and fishing passes easily"
http://www.kentucky.com/2012/11/06/2398379/constitutional-amendment-to-protect.html
Idaho:
"Voters approve amendment on hunting and fishing"
http://www.ktvb.com/news/Idaho-voters-show-support-for-hunt-fish-and-trap-measure-177594861.html
http://www.theolympian.com/2012/11/06/2310925/voters-approve-amendment-on-hunting.html
Please log into the Olympian comment section on this article to show your support of Idaho's new Constitutional Amendment to make hunting and fishing Constitutional Rights. Hopefully our time will come soon.
Nebraska:
"Nebraska voters enshrine hunting in constitution"
http://www.kearneyhub.com/news/local/nebraska-voters-enshrine-hunting-in-constitution/article_79ad7c28-289b-11e2-b8a1-001a4bcf887a.html
Wyoming:
It looks like Wyoming passed their Constitutional Amendment also, but the results are still unofficial (see page 2, Constitutional Amendment B):
http://soswy.state.wy.us/Elections/Docs/2012/Results/General/2012_Statewide_Constitutional_Amendments.pdf
Post by: huntrights on November 08, 2012, 10:29:31 PM
This would be a good article to comment on. Start planting the seeds of thought in this state; particularly on the west side of the state.
http://www.theolympian.com/2012/11/06/2309742/voters-to-decide-on-hunt-fish.html
Post by: huntrights on November 12, 2012, 08:28:52 PM
State Constitutional Right to Hunt and Fish
2012 Election Update
http://www.ncsl.org/issues-research/env-res/state-constitutional-right-to-hunt-and-fish.aspx
Idaho, Kentucky, Nebraska, and Wyoming passed their State Constitutional Right to Hunt and Fish this year.
Post by: huntrights on November 14, 2012, 09:07:09 PM
Four States Amend Constitutions to Protect Hunting, Fishing, and Trapping Rights
http://www.outdoorlife.com/blogs/newshound/2012/11/four-states-amend-constitutions-protect-hunting-fishing-and-trapping-rights
Post by: Special T on November 15, 2012, 02:14:10 PM
I know i will talking to my state and federal reps about this issue soon. >:(
Post by: huntrights on December 01, 2012, 07:02:05 PM
State Constitutional Right to Hunt and Fish
November 2012 Update
http://www.ncsl.org/issues-research/env-res/state-constitutional-right-to-hunt-and-fish.aspx
Seventeen states guarantee the right to hunt and fish in their constitutions, with 16 of those approved via the voters.
State Year of Adoption
Alabama 1996
Arkansas 2010
Georgia 2006
Idaho 2012
Kentucky 2012
Louisiana 2004
Minnesota 1998
Montana 2004
Nebraska 2012
North Dakota 2000
Oklahoma 2008
South Carolina 2010
Tennessee 2010
Vermont 1777
Virginia 2000
Wisconsin 2003
Wyoming 2012
For the 2014 Ballot:
Mississippi
http://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/documents/2012/html/HC/HC0030PS.htm
Indiana (?)
http://www.in.gov/legislative/bills/2011/RES/SJ0009.2.html
Post by: huntrights on December 21, 2012, 11:15:24 PM
Mississippi: On the ballot in 2014
http://www.nraila.org/legislation/state-legislation/2012/4/mississippi-senate-passes-two-more-nra-supported-bills-this-week.aspx?s=mississippi+right+to+hunt&st=&ps=
http://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2012/pdf/history/HC/HC0030.xml (http://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2012/pdf/history/HC/HC0030.xml)
All votes were YEAS.
http://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2012/pdf/votes/senate/0990005.pdf
Post by: huntrights on January 05, 2013, 08:49:27 PM
Although there are many other battles raging right now, don't let this fall off your radar.
Post by: Special T on January 05, 2013, 10:51:10 PM
Post by: huntrights on January 05, 2013, 11:32:04 PM
This will not be an easy task. We will need the help of organizations like the NRA. There are Washington legislators that will support this effort "when the time is right". I have been posting information about the other states that have done this so all of us can start to familiarize ourselves with the elements of success. We also need to understand why this effort failed in some other states. Equally important is studying the typical misleading propaganda and outright false information the anti-hunting and anti-fishing organizations disseminate when this type of legislation is attempted; we need to be prepared to counter the propaganda and lies with indisputable facts. As time goes on, the need to do this becomes more important because of the constant unjustified attacks on our heritage by anti-hunting and anti-fishing fanatics. The only way this can succeed is if we can energize the hunting and fishing community in Washington to come together in a united front to push for it. Current events and the post-election political landscape certainly haven’t made the prospects for this task any easier.
Post by: Smossy on January 07, 2013, 04:40:19 PM
Your over analizing things. If it wasn't for WDFW hatchery programs there would be absolutely no salmon in our rivers. Those programs are funded by what do you know. "Us who fish and hunt" and pay for the proper permits to do and be where we need to be. The salmon aren't just there. This isn't alaska. that stopped alonng time ago when people started to decide they wanted to build on and destroy streams/rivers that may not seem like much. Come into play in the long run. That little one inch stream that runs down the hillside? May look like nothing. But in reality that's where 90% of your fresh water going to spot X is really coming from. WDFW does a very good job at keeping strict regulations which insure the population of our fish. Just because you have a bad day fishing "not saying you did friend" doesn't mean the fish population is in danger. Every salmon that makes it to spawning grounds lays about 2000-7000 eggs depending on species. About 10% on average survive. That's 200-700 salmon per fish. And so on and so forth. You can do the math. Happy fishing though! Stay posative.
[/quote]
Post by: bigtex on January 07, 2013, 04:45:40 PM
Post by: Smossy on January 07, 2013, 04:47:07 PM
Post by: Bob33 on January 07, 2013, 04:48:30 PM
the general public does not seem to see the value/necessity of hunting.That could also be a good thing: out of sight, out of mind. I don't think most of the public cares one way or the other with hunting in general. If hunters were to unite together, rather than bicker among themselves, and present a solid unified case it might worth.
Post by: bigtex on January 07, 2013, 04:49:28 PM
the general public does not seem to see the value/necessity of hunting.That could also be a good thing: out of sight, out of mind. I don't think most of the public cares one way or the other with hunting in general. If hunters were to unite together, rather than bicker among themselves, and present a solid unified case it might worth.
How'd that go with the bear baiting and hound hunting initiative? :twocents:
Post by: Bob33 on January 07, 2013, 04:51:19 PM
Are you suggesting it is a worthless effort to try? :dunno:the general public does not seem to see the value/necessity of hunting.That could also be a good thing: out of sight, out of mind. I don't think most of the public cares one way or the other with hunting in general. If hunters were to unite together, rather than bicker among themselves, and present a solid unified case it might worth.
How'd that go with the bear baiting and hound hunting initiative? :twocents:
Post by: deaner on January 07, 2013, 04:52:45 PM
Post by: bigtex on January 07, 2013, 05:00:11 PM
Are you suggesting it is a worthless effort to try? :dunno:the general public does not seem to see the value/necessity of hunting.That could also be a good thing: out of sight, out of mind. I don't think most of the public cares one way or the other with hunting in general. If hunters were to unite together, rather than bicker among themselves, and present a solid unified case it might worth.
How'd that go with the bear baiting and hound hunting initiative? :twocents:
Personally, yes I do. Could it happen with fishing? Maybe/probably.
Simply too many PETA, anti-hunting types in WA for it to happen with hunting. Example: the kid that LEGALLY killed the octopus in Elliott Bay. WDFW received three different petitions asking to close the area to the taking of octopus, and the commission is now considering it.
If there was that much uproar over an octopus. It wouldn't be to hard for the anti's to say we are trying to kill every cuddly little bear out there.
And looking at politically: out of the 17 states that have this right only Vermont, Minnesota, and Wisconsin are what you would call "dark blue" states. Virginia is redish/blueish. All other states are "dark red" states. Pretty sure we all know how blue WA is. And second, those 4 states are heavy hunting states, not so with WA.
Post by: Smossy on January 07, 2013, 05:00:44 PM
I can see it happening for fishing rights long before hunting rights..
That I do agree on but our state is soo revolved around the great outdoors. The good old northwest. The evergreen state. Its kinda what were known for. States like Montana. Idaho. Wisconsin. Washington. All great hunting/fishing states. Then we have awsome red meat fish. The salmon. Some people still rely on hunting/fishing/harvesting as a sole source of food. So to all you people who sit at home on your tv preparing tenderloins and mushrooms in the oven but go out on the weekends screaming anti hunter save the animals. We don't just kill for fun then leave the animal there to rott and die. Most of us are as humane as can be. Fast kill insures less suffering. Juss felt like ranting alittle. Never had hunting/fishing community. I'm solo when I do my stuff. Don't have the advantige of a father or friend that hunts. Its just me. Id love to hook up with some guys for some tag along trips if anyones ever down to train a hunting newb. Quick learner though. Gear is stacked and ready for use.
Post by: bigtex on January 07, 2013, 05:01:39 PM
dont worry bigtex, well forget all about the bear baiting in a couple years when they take away deer baiting :bash:
Well there's a difference there. Bear baiting and hound hunting was made illegal by a citizen initiative. Deer/elk baiting would be made illegal by WDFW.
Post by: bigtex on January 07, 2013, 05:06:14 PM
I can see it happening for fishing rights long before hunting rights..
That I do agree on but our state is soo revolved around the great outdoors. The good old northwest. The evergreen state. Its kinda what were known for. States like Montana. Idaho. Wisconsin. Washington. All great hunting/fishing states.
Washington is NOTHING compared to the states you listed in regards to hunting/fishing. I know a ton of people who quit hunting WA and now go out of state simply for better hunting. Fishing has gone in the tank for the past 20-5 years. Oregon and Alaska are the hotspots for fishing now, WA use to be the steelhead state, are there any in the state anymore?
I think WA is known more for the subaru driving hikers/bikers now then it is hunting/fishing.
Post by: deaner on January 07, 2013, 05:07:54 PM
Post by: Smossy on January 07, 2013, 05:40:59 PM
Post by: bigtex on January 07, 2013, 06:01:39 PM
There is plenty of steelhead. WA fishing is HOTT as far as I'm concerned. We have six gill shark, sturgeon, salmon, perch. Not much else I'm interested in as far as fish. And you don't eat nor keep the six gills. Led alone even remove them from the water. I'm not into catchin a few lil bass and throwin them back. I harvest for food. Only thing I do for "fun" is six gill fishing from the pier.
Plenty of steelhead? Lets see 30 years ago you could almost always get your steelhead limit in a Puget Sound river. They are now on the Endangered Species list. In fact the majority of the salmon runs are now on the ESA. Smelting use to be "huge", it is now closed due to being on the ESA.
Hard to say fishing is "HOTT" when every couple years another run becomes federally protected under the ESA.
Post by: Smossy on January 07, 2013, 08:39:24 PM
Hey don't get it wrong I don't doubt that for a second, but that applies to allot of things in the world. Even trees for example. You can say "there always used to be more" and it can apply to just about anything. The fact is not too often have I had a problem going out and catching my limit of steelhead, or kings, or anything for that matter. If I don't get my limit, It makes me want them that much more, It creates a hunt persay. Its called fishing, not catching. But I do get your point. I'm somewhat new into everything being as I've only recently in the last 5 years or so developed a passion for the outdoors. 25 years young. So if your just scared to look for the fish then let that be your own prerogative. Fact is, I still see all every year I go out, Crystal clear Rivers stacked full of steelhead and chum fighting over holes. When you can pick and choose what steelies u fish for in the water I hardly consider that endangered. They may be scientifically speaking but not in my eyes. Not yet.There is plenty of steelhead. WA fishing is HOTT as far as I'm concerned. We have six gill shark, sturgeon, salmon, perch. Not much else I'm interested in as far as fish. And you don't eat nor keep the six gills. Led alone even remove them from the water. I'm not into catchin a few lil bass and throwin them back. I harvest for food. Only thing I do for "fun" is six gill fishing from the pier.
Plenty of steelhead? Lets see 30 years ago you could almost always get your steelhead limit in a Puget Sound river. They are now on the Endangered Species list. In fact the majority of the salmon runs are now on the ESA. Smelting use to be "huge", it is now closed due to being on the ESA.
Hard to say fishing is "HOTT" when every couple years another run becomes federally protected under the ESA.
Post by: Smossy on January 07, 2013, 08:41:04 PM
Post by: huntrights on May 07, 2013, 09:43:09 PM
Excerpt from an NRA-ILA alert that was sent to California members:
" “We are going to use the ballot box and the democratic process to stop all hunting in the United States. We will take it species by species until all hunting is stopped in California. Then we will take it state by state.” (Humane Society of the United States President and CEO Wayne Pacelle)"
"California: Get the Truth About the Proposed California Lead Ammunition Ban (AB 711) and the Misguided Campaign to Pass it
Posted on May 6, 2013"
http://www.nraila.org/legislation/state-legislation/2013/5/california-get-the-truth-about-the-proposed-california-lead-ammunition-ban-%28ab-711%29-and-the-misguided-campaign-to-pass-it.aspx
Please urge others to keep informed about these issues.
Post by: huntrights on July 03, 2013, 08:18:00 AM
Right to Hunt vs. Animal Rights
http://dailyreckoning.com/right-to-hunt-vs-animal-rights/
Post by: huntrights on July 10, 2013, 01:32:14 PM
http://openstates.org/in/bills/2013/SJR7/documents/IND00044382/
Post by: Smossy on July 10, 2013, 02:59:00 PM
X- Smossy
Post by: huntrights on July 12, 2013, 03:21:23 PM
Other states are doing it; we can too. People need to be thinking about this and understanding why we need to do it.
Post by: fastdam on July 12, 2013, 04:39:26 PM
Post by: huntrights on July 13, 2013, 11:09:09 PM
Our wildlife populations need to be managed with sound and unbiased science. In states where hunting and fishing are Constitutional rights, the hunters and fishermen must still obey wildlife management laws. True conservation requires responsible management of our wildlife to ensure bountiful and healthy wildlife populations for our generation and for generations to come. Typically, the game animals we harvest are surplus above the carrying capacity of the habitat. Other situations may exist where animals need to be harvested due to extenuating circumstances defined by the WDFW. The Constitutional right to hunt and fish does NOT mean people can hunt and fish anything at any time they wish; it means they have a right to hunt and fish under the guidelines and laws that govern sound and responsible wildlife management. When hunting and fishing become Constitutional rights versus privileges, anti-hunting organizations will have a very difficult time destroying that heritage; it’s a “Firewall” we must put in place.
Post by: fastdam on July 14, 2013, 07:08:07 AM
Post by: huntrights on July 15, 2013, 07:08:02 AM
There will always be political battles and opposing groups finding loopholes and ways to take advantage of any situation. That is why we must all be vigilant in defending and protecting our rights and freedoms; apathy, complacency, and giving up will not keep our rights and freedoms intact. The political pendulum is always swinging.
Post by: Bigshooter on July 15, 2013, 07:46:53 AM
Post by: huntrights on September 11, 2013, 09:38:27 PM
2013 Indiana General Assembly
Senate OKs changing constitution to add right to hunt, fish, farm
February 11, 2013
Excerpt from the article:
"INDIANAPOLIS | A proposed state constitutional amendment guaranteeing the right to hunt, fish and farm is one step closer to being submitted to Hoosier voters for ratification.
The Republican-controlled Senate voted 38-10 Monday to approve the amendment, which declares hunting, fishing and farming are "forever preserved for the public good," subject only to laws and rules prescribed by the General Assembly."
Post by: huntnphool on September 13, 2013, 10:03:43 AM
There needs to be langue that says Bioloigist are the only ones that can make hunting rules.Are you sure about that?
Post by: huntrights on October 03, 2013, 03:49:39 PM
News from the Congressional Sportsmen's Foundation
http://www.sportsmenslink.org/policies/legislative-alerts/pennsylvania-h-410
Pennsylvania H 410
Intro Date: 01/29/2013
Sponsor: Representative Matt Baker
Issue Brief: Right to Hunt and Fish
Summary: Proposes an amendment to the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, providing for the right to hunt, fish and harvest game.
Status: In House. Removed from table on September 30.
Bill text:
http://client.statenet.com/symtree/xmlbill/PA/2013000/H/410/BILLTEXT_20130129_0_I.pdf
Note - "Removed from table" means the bill is removed from the table and placed on the second consideration calendar:
http://www.pehsc.org/how_bill_law.htm
"If the bill is reported from committee it follows somewhat the same course of passage as in the Senate except in the areas of first consideration. When the bill is reported from committee and given first consideration it is not automatically moved on to second consideration but is laid on the table. It may be removed from the table by a motion of the Majority Leader, or his designee, acting on a report of the Rules Committee. Such report must be in writing and a copy thereof distributed to each Member. When the bill is so removed from the table it is placed on the second consideration calendar on the legislative day following such removal. The procedure does not prohibit any Member from making a motion to remove the bill from the table. If the bill remains on the table for fifteen legislative days it is automatically removed from the table and placed on the calendar for second consideration the next legislative day."
Post by: huntrights on October 03, 2013, 04:02:00 PM
This is an excellent summary and explanation from the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation about pursuing a Constitutional Amendment for the Right to Hunt and Fish.
http://www.sportsmenslink.org/policies/state/right-to-hunt-fish
“Summary
Though hunting, fishing and trapping has long been a part of America’s heritage, the “right” to hunt, fish and trap has recently come into question by many anti-hunting organizations. In order to establish what has been assumed for centuries, several states have sought amendments to their state constitutions that give citizens the right to hunt, fish, and trap in a responsible manner.
Right to Hunt/Fish/Trap
Introduction
Though hunting, fishing and trapping have long been an American heritage since before the first Europeans arrived in North America, only recently has the “right” to hunt, fish and trap come into question. Anti-hunting organizations would lead the public to believe that hunting, fishing and trapping are only a privilege subject to social pressures and prevailing public sentiments and not an inherent right.
In order to establish in perpetuity what has been assumed for centuries, several states have sought amendments to their state constitutions that gives their citizens a right to hunt, fish and trap and to continue a consumptive, yet responsible, use of natural resources. Though there has been little resistance in several of the states that have recently passed ballot initiatives, others have met considerable resistance and even defeat.
Language
By incorporating the views of our partners and other state legislators who have passed this legislation, we present the following language:
“The citizens of this State have the right to hunt, fish, and harvest wildlife, including the use of traditional methods, subject only to statutes enacted by the Legislature and regulations adopted by the designated agency [or “fish and game commission” or state-specific term] to promote wildlife conservation and management and to preserve the future of hunting and fishing. Public hunting and fishing shall be a preferred means of managing and controlling wildlife. This section shall not be construed to modify any provision of law relating to trespass or property rights.”
Points of Interest
Simply passing a “right to hunt and fish pursuant to all laws and regulations” amendment doesn’t necessarily guarantee any long-term benefits of such an amendment. The language should consider the following:
• Recognition of an individual right to hunt, fish and harvest game
• Preservation of the state’s power to regulate these activities for scientific—not political or emotional—reasons
• Preemption of the kind of local regulation that frustrates comprehensive, statewide wildlife management
• Protection of traditional hunting methods like archery tackle and bird dogs
• Recognition of hunting and fishing as a preferred means of managing wildlife in order to protect against dangerous contraception schemes and unwarranted use of government “sharpshooters”
• Clarification that private property rights are not affected or diminished
• It should be noted that the state agency should be named only if it is already a constitutionally-recognized entity. If this is not the case, a generic term such as “designated state agency” should be used.
History
• Vermont was the first state to adopt a constitutional provision protecting the rights of its citizens to hunt, trap and fish. The right has been protected in Vermont since 1777.
• Other states that have amended their constitution to protect hunting, angling and trapping include: Alabama (1996), Arkansas (2010), Georgia (2006), Idaho (2012), Kentucky (2012), Louisiana (2004), Minnesota (1998), Montana (2004), Nebraska (2012), North Dakota (2000), Oklahoma (2008), South Carolina (2010), Tennessee (2010), Virginia (2000), Wisconsin (2003), and Wyoming (2012).
• Additionally, California and Rhode Island have language in their constitution protecting the right to fish, but not to hunt.
Contact
For more information regarding this issue, please contact:
Chris Horton 501-672-5761; chris@sportsmenslink.org “
Post by: huntrights on December 12, 2013, 10:43:03 PM
National Shooting Sports Foundation
State “Right to Hunt and Fish” Protections
http://www.nssf.org/factsheets/PDF/StateRighttoHunFish.pdf
Post by: jackmaster on December 13, 2013, 07:26:33 AM
Post by: Bofire on December 13, 2013, 09:02:57 AM
Carl
Post by: NoBark on December 13, 2013, 09:28:34 AM
Post by: huntrights on January 09, 2014, 05:58:02 PM
http://ballotpedia.org/Indiana_Right_to_Hunt_and_Fish_Amendment,_SJ_7_%282014%29
"The Indiana Right to Hunt and Fish Amendment is a legislatively-referred constitutional amendment in Indiana that may appear in the general election on November 4, 2014. The proposed measure would guarantee the right of state citizens to hunt and fish."
"Text of Section 38:
The people have a right to hunt, fish, harvest game, or engage in the agricultural or commercial production of meat, fish, poultry, or dairy products, which is a valued part of our heritage and shall be forever preserved for the public good, subject only to laws prescribed by the General Assembly and rules prescribed by virtue of the authority of the General Assembly. Hunting and fishing shall be the preferred means of managing and controlling wildlife. This section shall not be construed to limit the application of any provision of law relating to trespass or property rights. "
Post by: huntrights on February 12, 2014, 06:43:55 PM
Alabama: Right to Hunt and Fish Legislation to be Considered in House Committee Tomorrow
http://www.nraila.org/legislation/state-legislation/2014/2/alabama-right-to-hunt-and-fish-legislation-to-be-considered-in-house-committee-tomorrow.aspx
Post by: BOWHUNTER45 on February 12, 2014, 07:17:06 PM
Post by: huntrights on February 14, 2014, 12:39:42 PM
:twocents:
We must all be engaged in the political processes that control our lives through laws, regulations, ordinances, etc. NEVER GIVE UP!
What can we do as individuals? Here are a few suggestions:
• Be aware of proposed legislation, regulations, ordinances, etc. at all levels of government; these are rules that may be imposed on all of us. Several participants in this forum are trying very hard to bring these issues into view and providing fast and easy methods to have your individual voice heard. Take the time to understand the issues, then TAKE ACTION!
• Learn how to become aware of proposed legislation before it becomes law.
o http://hunting-washington.com/smf/index.php/topic,31831.0.html
• Participate in public meetings regarding the issues.
• Write and call your representatives and public agencies.
• VOTE bad politicians out of office! VOTE for your rights and freedoms; don’t vote party lines. Take note of which politicians are attacking our Second Amendment right to keep and bear arms, rights to hunt and fish (currently privileges in this state), rights to access and utilize our public lands, private property rights, etc.
Keeping our rights and freedoms depends on what we do at the “grassroots” level. “Grassroots” means each and every one of us must be actively involved in the political processes that affect us.
When we all speak together, our unified voice is very powerful.
A word not spoken will not be heard.
A word not written will not be read.
A VOTE not cast may allow bad politicians to be elected or stay in office.
Get involved:
Write and call representatives and agencies about issues.
VOTE for your rights and freedoms!
Post by: huntrights on February 21, 2014, 12:36:59 PM
Indiana: House Committee to Hear Right to Hunt and Fish Amendment on Monday
http://www.nraila.org/legislation/state-legislation/2014/2/indiana-house-committee-to-hear-right-to-hunt-and-fish-amendment-on-monday.aspx
Post by: bearpaw on February 21, 2014, 12:54:25 PM
Post by: huntrights on March 06, 2014, 09:32:00 AM
"Indiana: State House Approves Pro-Gun and Pro-Hunting Legislation"
http://www.nraila.org/legislation/state-legislation/2014/3/indiana-state-house-approves-pro-gun-and-pro-hunting-legislation.aspx
Excerpt from the article:
"Yesterday, on the final day for third reading of Senate bills, the Indiana House of Representatives passed two NRA-backed pieces of legislation -- Senate Bill 229 and Senate Joint Resolution 9. Passed by a 74 to 24 vote, the amended version of SB 229 will now go back to the Indiana Senate for its concurrence.
Having passed in the state House by a 79 to 16 vote, the language in SJR 9 will also need to be passed either next year or in 2016 to be eligible for the 2016 ballot. SJR 9, sponsored by state Senator Brent Steele (R-44) and state Representative Mark Messmer (R-63), would guarantee Hoosiers the right to hunt, fish and harvest wildlife. This proposed constitutional amendment would ensure the preservation of Indiana's rich hunting heritage for future generations.
Sponsored by state Senator Jim Tomes (R-49) and state Representative Sean Eberhart (R-57), SB 229 as amended would do the following:
* Prohibit the use of taxpayer dollars to fund a gun “buyback” program
* Allow firearms to be locked out of plain sight in a vehicle while parked on school property
* Remove the “roaming school zone” provision from current law – currently, property can be defined as a place where a school function is taking place (i.e. a person would be in violation of state law if they were legally carrying a firearm at a zoo and a school field trip was being held there as well)
* Redefine “school property” to only include property of the school and not other buildings that might be connected to the school by a parking lot"
Post by: huntnphool on March 06, 2014, 09:36:26 AM
Post by: huntrights on March 06, 2014, 10:46:21 AM
Other states are doing it. It is not an easy process, but it can be done as has been shown in other states. Proper wording in the legislation, timing, and public support are critical. This topic thread is meant to keep the subject on our radar.
When the time comes, there will likely be a flood of propaganda from anti-hunting and animal-rights organizations. These organizations have very obvious and demonstrated objectives to eliminate hunting, fishing, and trapping altogether. They have also been attacking farming and ranching activities in various ways.
People have the right to hunt, fish, trap, farm, and ranch. This is not just an issue about protecting and defending "sporting activities", "hobbies", or "recreational pastimes"; it's about protecting our heritage and traditions that have been at the core of our survival since mankind walked this earth. It's about the right of pursuing sustenance (food) by hunting, fishing, trapping, farming, and ranching. Without these activities established as rights, people will be forced to depend on retail entities (i.e. grocery stores), the government, or charity as their primary sources of sustenance if these “privileges” are suddenly taken away or improperly managed/regulated. Give that some very careful and focused thought.
These activities should still be managed/regulated based on sound and unbiased science (i.e. harvest limits, seasons, land use, etc.) to ensure healthy and sustainable wildlife populations along with proper management of the resources used by farming and ranching. This is an issue of rights versus privileges; there is a significant difference between the two. The government and its emissaries are obligated to protect and defend rights versus the giving and taking of privileges on a whim depending on the current political climate.
The following link is a good resource for national updates on the subject:
State Constitutional Right to Hunt and Fish
http://www.ncsl.org/research/environment-and-natural-resources/state-constitutional-right-to-hunt-and-fish.aspx
Post by: huntrights on March 08, 2014, 10:01:51 PM
http://www.ncsl.org/research/environment-and-natural-resources/state-constitutional-right-to-hunt-and-fish.aspx
Excerpt from the article:
“2014 Update
Eight states—Alabama, Indiana, Michigan, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania and West Virginia—are considering bills in 2014 that propose the creation of a state constitutional amendment to protect the right to hunt and fish.
2012 Election Update
In November of 2012, voters in four more states—Idaho, Kentucky, Nebraska, and Wyoming—overwhelmingly passed legislatively referred ballot measures to add a constitutional right to hunt and fish. The Mississippi legislature referred an amendment to the 2014 ballot. Seven other states—Hawaii, Michigan, Missouri, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York and Pennsylvania—considered legislation to amend the constitution to add the right to hunt and fish in 2012, but were unsuccessful.”
Information on states for 2014:
Alabama:
http://www.nraila.org/legislation/state-legislation/2014/2/alabama-right-to-hunt-and-fish-legislation-to-be-considered-in-house-committee-tomorrow.aspx
http://alisondb.legislature.state.al.us/acas/ViewBillsStatusACASLogin.asp?BillNumber=hb322
http://alisondb.legislature.state.al.us/acas/ACTIONHistoryFrameMac.asp?OID=83412&LABEL=HB322
The bill:
http://alisondb.legislature.state.al.us/acas/ACTIONViewFrameMac.asp?TYPE=Instrument&INST=HB322&DOCPATH=searchableinstruments/2014RS/Printfiles/&PHYDOCPATH=//alisondb/acas/searchableinstruments/2014RS/PrintFiles/&DOCNAMES=HB322-int.pdf,,
Amendment:
http://alisondb.legislature.state.al.us/acas/ACTIONViewFrameMac.asp?TYPE=Amendment&AMDSUB=159345-4&DOCNAME=159345-4.pdf&DOCPATH=searchableinstruments/2014RS/Printfiles&INST=HB322
Indiana:
http://iga.in.gov/legislative/2014/resolutions/senate/joint/9
http://www.nraila.org/legislation/state-legislation/2014/1/indiana-constitutional-right-to-hunt-and-fish-scheduled-for-monday-committee-hearing.aspx
Michigan:
http://www.legislature.mi.gov/%28S%280hqasv55ixvljyuuxqtnegih%29%29/mileg.aspx?page=getobject&objectname=2013-SJR-S&query=on
http://www.legislature.mi.gov/%28S%28bqyg2hawbidfspjvgi0xmb45%29%29/mileg.aspx?page=getobject&objectname=2013-HJR-K&query=on
Missouri:
http://legiscan.com/MO/text/HJR59/id/917835
New Jersey:
ftp://www.njleg.state.nj.us/20142015/ACR/94_I1.PDF
http://legiscan.com/NJ/text/ACR94/id/926419
New York:
http://open.nysenate.gov/legislation/bill/S3049-2013
Pennsylvania:
http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billInfo/billInfo.cfm?sYear=2013&sInd=0&body=H&type=B&bn=410
West Virginia:
http://legiscan.com/WV/bill/SJR10/2014
http://www.wsaz.com/home/headlines/Three-Constitutional-Amendments-Pass-WVa-Senate-247386201.html
Post by: huntrights on March 11, 2014, 12:54:44 PM
The attacks on hunting continue -
Alert from SCI:
"L 671 Puts Nebraska’s Hunting Heritage At Risk"
http://firstforhunters.wordpress.com/2014/03/07/l-671-puts-nebraskas-hunting-heritage-at-risk/
:twocents:
Sound and unbiased science should be the foundation and mandate of wildlife management, not the politicized opinions and abuse of power by anti-hunting politicians. Know who they are and VOTE them out of office.
Post by: huntrights on March 14, 2014, 10:12:19 AM
"Alabama: Right to Hunt and Fish Constitutional Amendment Will be Voted on in the House Tomorrow!"
Posted on March 12, 2014
http://www.nraila.org/legislation/state-legislation/2014/3/alabama-right-to-hunt-and-fish-constitutional-amendment-will-be-voted-on-in-the-house-tomorrow.aspx
If you know anyone in Alabama, please pass this on to them. Ask them to contact their state Representative TODAY and respectfully urge him or her to vote “YES” on HB 322 to ensure the right to hunt and fish for future generations.
Contact information for their state Representative can be found here:
http://www.legislature.state.al.us/house/representatives/houseroster_alpha.html .
Post by: bearpaw on March 18, 2014, 01:20:02 AM
Thanks so much for your dedication with this issue. If you look at this topic in the board you will see that there have been over 23,000 views of this topic, that tells everyone how important this issue really is.
Post by: huntrights on March 18, 2014, 12:46:05 PM
huntrights
Thanks so much for your dedication with this issue. If you look at this topic in the board you will see that there have been over 23,000 views of this topic, that tells everyone how important this issue really is.
We definitely need to keep this on our radar. Our rights (currently privileges) to hunt, fish, and trap are being diminished, manipulated, and/or eliminated by anti-hunting and animal-rights organizations every chance they get by using every tool they have at their disposal to achieve their agendas. Farming and ranching, which also deal directly with sustenance (food), should be included in any legislation that is proposed because they also are coming under attack in various ways from those same “anti” organizations. We can't look at this as just a Washington issue; it is a national issue. Progress is being made on a state-by-state basis, but there is still much to do. People in this state need to start educating themselves on this subject and help their family, friends, and colleagues understand why it is necessary. There is a big difference between rights and privileges. The government would be obligated to protect and defend these rights versus giving and taking privileges on the whim of the current political climate. All one has to do is observe the anti-hunting mayhem taking place in California and some other states. It is important that citizens in this state learn to recognize the tidal-wave of propaganda that the anti-hunting and animal-rights organizations will most likely disseminate when the time comes.
This is a good time to point out again that the U.S. Sportsmen's Alliance (USSA) is a national organization that is constantly fighting for our rights to hunt, fish, and trap. It is a very good organization to join and support.
U.S. Sportsmen’s Alliance (USSA)
http://www.ussportsmen.org/
Individual memberships:
http://www.ussportsmen.org/join/individual-membership/
Business memberships:
http://www.ussportsmen.org/join/business-memberships/
Club memberships:
http://www.ussportsmen.org/join/club-membership/
Post by: huntrights on April 06, 2014, 08:47:25 PM
"Alabama: House Approves Right to Hunt and Fish Constitutional Amendment"
http://www.nraila.org/legislation/state-legislation/2014/3/alabama-house-approves-right-to-hunt-and-fish-constitutional-amendment.aspx
Post by: BOWHUNTER45 on April 06, 2014, 09:06:15 PM
Post by: huntrights on April 06, 2014, 09:07:03 PM
"Public vote will come in 2016 at the earliest"
http://www.newsandtribune.com/local/x787210245/Changed-wording-delays-debate-on-right-to-hunt-fish-in-Indiana
Post by: huntrights on April 06, 2014, 09:11:02 PM
I like it .... :tup: All states should be heading for the same bill ... :tup:
We can do this. We need to educate the public and keep our focus. Once the process starts, the anti's will likely flood the media with their propaganda.
Post by: huntrights on April 06, 2014, 09:17:18 PM
"Mississippi Right to Hunt and Fish Amendment (2014)"
"The Mississippi Right to Hunt and Fish Amendment is on the November 4, 2014 ballot in Mississippi as a legislatively-referred constitutional amendment. The measure, upon voter approval, would establish a constitutional right to hunt, fish and harvest game species throughout Mississippi."
http://ballotpedia.org/Mississippi_Right_to_Hunt_and_Fish_Amendment_%282014%29
Post by: BOWHUNTER45 on April 06, 2014, 09:25:06 PM
Post by: huntrights on April 21, 2014, 01:21:34 PM
Anti-Hunting Senator Takes Another Run at Nebraska Mountain Lion Ban
Posted on April 8, 2014
http://www.ussportsmen.org/legislative-action/anti-hunting-senator-takes-another-run-at-nebraska-mountain-lion-ban/
Wolf Management Under Attack in Minnesota
Posted on March 28, 2014
http://www.ussportsmen.org/legislative-action/wolfmanagementunderattackinminnesota/
TV News Affiliate Covers Hunter Harassment
Posted on March 27, 2014
http://www.ussportsmen.org/hunting/tv-news-affiliated-covers-hunter-harassment/
HSUS: Breaking the Bank in Maine
Posted on January 24, 2014
http://www.ussportsmen.org/hunting/hsus-breaking-the-bank-in-maine/
USSAF Intervenes in Western Great Lakes Wolf Lawsuit
Posted on May 8, 2013
http://www.ussportsmen.org/hunting/ussaf-intervenes-in-western-great-lakes-wolf-lawsuit/
Anti-Trapping Bill Introduced in New Hampshire
Posted on January 10, 2014
http://www.ussportsmen.org/trapping/anti-trapping-bill-introduced-in-new-hampshire/
Antis Threaten Lawsuit to Ban Trapping in Montana
Posted on August 29, 2012
http://www.ussportsmen.org/trapping/antis-threaten-lawsuit-to-ban-trapping-in-montana/
America’s Top 10 Threats to Trapping
Posted on August 22, 2012
http://www.ussportsmen.org/trapping/americas-top-10-threats-to-trapping-2/
Anti: Sierra Club Pushes Anti-trapping Agenda
Posted on April 5, 2012
http://www.ussportsmen.org/trapping/sierra-club-pushes-anti-trapping-agenda/
2014: The Year of the Ballot Issue?
Posted on January 10, 2014
http://www.ussportsmen.org/legislative-action/2014-the-year-of-the-ballot-issue/
Current Litigation Efforts
http://www.scifirstforhunters.org/advocacy/currentlitigation#wywolf
Anti-gun and Anti-Hunting Radicals Attack U.S. Trap Shooter
Posted on August 10, 2012
http://www.nraila.org/news-issues/articles/2012/anti-gun-and-anti-hunting-radicals-attack-us-trap-shooter.aspx?s=&st=&ps=
Top Anti Hunting organizations in the US
http://www.examiner.com/list/top-anti-hunting-organizations-the-us
Florida Fishing Access in the Crosshairs
Posted on September 6, 2013
http://www.ussportsmen.org/fishing/florida-fishing-access-in-the-crosshairs/
PETA Chastises Angler after Accident
August 8, 2013
http://www.ussportsmen.org/fishing/peta-chastises-angler-after-accident/
Post by: huntrights on May 09, 2014, 10:19:47 AM
"National Conference of State Legislatures"
"State Constitutional Right to Hunt and Fish"
May 1, 2014 Update
http://www.ncsl.org/research/environment-and-natural-resources/state-constitutional-right-to-hunt-and-fish.aspx
Post by: huntrights on May 12, 2014, 10:13:07 AM
"States Move to Protect Right to Hunt, Fish"
http://www.newsmax.com/US/hunting-fishing-states-rights/2014/04/28/id/568065/
Hunters, Fishermen Targeted by Feds for Local Violations
http://www.newsmax.com/Newsfront/hunting-fishing-crime-government/2013/12/18/id/542648/
Post by: pianoman9701 on May 12, 2014, 10:19:07 AM
Post by: huntrights on May 14, 2014, 11:21:54 AM
The basic premise of the topic “Make Hunting and Fishing Constitutional Rights in Washington State” is that hunting and fishing are currently considered privileges in Washington State. People have the right to hunt, fish, trap, farm, and ranch. This is not just an issue about protecting and defending "sporting activities", "hobbies", or "recreational pastimes"; it's about protecting our heritage and traditions that have been at the core of our survival since mankind walked this earth. It's about the right of pursuing sustenance (food) from sources other than grocery stores and restaurants by hunting, fishing, trapping, farming, and ranching. Until recently, there would have been no question that people had the right to hunt, fish, trap, farm, and ranch.
Anti-hunting sentiment seems to have arisen due to the relative abundance of food in the developed world and the ease of obtaining it from sources like nearby grocery stores, farm stands, or restaurants. Many people have become so detached from the task of providing food for themselves that they don’t think about the fact that the acts of others to harvest, process (clean), package, and prepare land animals, fish, plants, and associated byproducts are what provides them with food for their consumption and survival.
However, it is also critical to understand that our wildlife needs to be responsibly managed to ensure healthy and sustainable wildlife populations now and for future generations.
The North American Model of Wildlife Conservation has been the foundation of the most successful wildlife management system in the world – it is our model of wildlife management. The basic principles of the model are nicely presented by the Boone and Crockett Club and others:
• “In the Public Trust – Wildlife belongs to the people and managed in trust for the people by government agencies.”
• “Prohibition on Commerce of Dead Wildlife – It will be illegal to sell the meat of any wild animal in North America.”
• “Allocation of Wildlife is by Law – Laws developed by the people and enforced by government agencies will regulate the proper use of wildlife resources.”
• “Opportunity for All – Every citizen has the freedom to hunt and fish.”
• “Non-frivolous Use – In North America we can legally kill certain wildlife for legitimate purposes under strict guidelines for food and fur, in self-defense, or property protection. Laws are in place to restrict casual killing, killing for commercial purposes, wasting of game, and mistreating wildlife.”
• “International Resources – Because wildlife and fish freely migrate across boundaries between states, provinces, and countries they are considered an international resource.”
• “Managed by Science – The best science available will be used as a base for informed decision making in wildlife management.”
What is driving anti-hunting and animal-rights organizations, and biased anti-hunting politicians to undermine the most successful wildlife conservation system in the world? The people of this country should not allow extremist ideologies to destroy wildlife management based on sound and unbiased science and the basic principles set forth in the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation. The emotionally-based diatribe and propaganda disseminated by these organizations and the anti-hunting bias of some politicians needs to be recognized for what it is and they need to be exposed as the very real threats they are to our rights to hunt and fish.
It is important for people understand why making hunting and fishing Constitutional rights is so important. Exposing the attacks on hunting and fishing by the various anti-hunting and animal-rights organizations and biased politicians are important to show that the threats to these rights are very real. The recent example of abuse of political power to support what appears to be a blatant anti-hunting agenda prompted the statement:
“Sound and unbiased science should be the foundation and mandate of wildlife management, not the politicized opinions and abuse of power by anti-hunting politicians. Know who they are and VOTE them out of office.”
Excerpt from SCI article "L 671 Puts Nebraska’s Hunting Heritage At Risk"
http://firstforhunters.wordpress.com/2014/03/07/l-671-puts-nebraskas-hunting-heritage-at-risk/
"Washington D.C. – Safari Club International criticizes State Senator Ernie Chambers. Nebraska L 671, seeks to eliminate the science-based management of mountain lions in Nebraska. This bill jeopardizes the future of Nebraska’s hunting heritage and for the conservation efforts of their fish and wildlife resources by eliminating mountain lion hunting. Declaring his “repugnance” over the inception of Nebraska’s inaugural lion hunt, Senator Chambers declared to the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission that he would “oppose every proposal it brings to the Legislature as long as it allows mountain lions to be hunted.”" [Bold emphasis added]
Based on the SCI article, there appears to be anti-hunting sentiment that guides the actions of the senator mentioned in the article.
We, as hunters and anglers, need to do as much as possible to encourage all citizens to VOTE for representatives that will uphold their Oath of Office and will protect and defend our rights to hunt and fish (currently privileges in Washington State).
Please take a few minutes to visit the following websites to gain a deeper understanding of The North American Wildlife Conservation Model and why hunting is conservation:
"The North American Wildlife Conservation Model"
http://www.rmef.org/Conservation/HuntingIsConservation/NorthAmericanWildlifeConservationModel.aspx
The North American Model of Wildlife Conservation, Sportsmen, and the Boone and Crockett Club
http://www.boone-crockett.org/conservation/conservation_NAM.asp?area=conservation
The North American Wildlife Conservation Model
http://www.montanawildlife.com/publications/frontpage.pdf
"25 Reasons Why Hunting Is Conservation"
http://www.rmef.org/Conservation/HuntingIsConservation/25ReasonsWhyHuntingIsConservation.aspx
There are a couple of national organizations that are actively engaged in fighting for our rights to hunt and fish: the U.S. Sportsmen's Alliance (USSA) and Safari Club International (SCI). Please consider joining and supporting the efforts of both organizations.
U.S. Sportsmen’s Alliance (USSA)
http://www.ussportsmen.org/
Individual memberships:
http://www.ussportsmen.org/join/individual-membership/ (http://www.ussportsmen.org/join/individual-membership/)
Business memberships:
http://www.ussportsmen.org/join/business-memberships/
Club memberships:
http://www.ussportsmen.org/join/club-membership/
Safari Club International (SCI)
http://www.scifirstforhunters.org/home/
http://member.scifirstforhunters.org/join/ (http://member.scifirstforhunters.org/join/)
Post by: huntrights on May 16, 2014, 10:07:14 AM
"Sportsmen push for constitutional hunting and fishing rights"
Posted May 8, 2014
http://m.thedailyworld.com/newswire/nation-world/sportsmen-push-constitutional-hunting-and-fishing-rights
Post by: dmv9 on May 16, 2014, 10:34:50 AM
Thanks for pushing this.
Post by: scottcrb on May 16, 2014, 10:38:57 AM
is there a petition to sign ?
Post by: huntrights on May 16, 2014, 05:37:55 PM
Okay, so I see a lot of links and articles. But what are the action items? What should we be doing?
Thanks for pushing this.
The action items are to read the articles, understand the threats, learn about how other states have enshrined hunting and fishing in their state Constitutions, learn how the anti-hunting/fishing and animal-rights organizations use emotionally-based diatribe and propaganda to support their agenda, have an arsenal of facts to counter the anti's propaganda when this is finally pursued in Washington, etc. When the time is right for Washington, hunters and anglers need to be very familiar with this topic; getting people engaged and educated about any complex and controversial subject takes a long time via forums like Hunting-Washington, email communications, face-to-face conversations, organization meetings, etc. We need to answer questions like "Why was the Right to Hunt and Fish defeated in Arizona (Proposition 109) in 2010? Where did hunters and anglers go wrong? Arizona has a lot of sportsmen; where did the message to people get confused? The intent of sharing all of this information in the forum is to get the information out there and to get people thinking about the importance of taking this step. All hunters and anglers don't participate in this forum so hopefully those that do will help pass on the information. We need to keep this on our radar.
When the time comes to rally the masses, hopefully we will be ready. Much depends on the makeup of the legislature; all hunters and anglers need to remember how important the correct representation is when it comes time to VOTE. Support candidates that will uphold their Oath of Office and will protect and defend our rights to hunt and fish.
Post by: huntrights on June 28, 2014, 07:46:45 AM
November is approaching fast. Remember to support and VOTE for candidates that will uphold their Oath of Office and will protect and defend our rights to hunt and fish. Too many of our elected representatives are driven purely by partisan politics and personal agendas, and do not act in the best interests of their constituencies. This state has been politically unhealthy and biased for too long; it's time to bring balance to our political landscape so We the People can truly be represented again. Making hunting and fishing Constitutional rights in Washington state will depend a great deal on bringing back political balance and true representation in our state. This is not an "R" and "D" debate, it's about VOTING the right people into office, and VOTING the "political hacks" out of office.
Post by: huntrights on October 10, 2014, 08:16:32 PM
"Amendment seeks to make hunting, fishing 'constitutional rights'"
http://www.meridianstar.com/news/local_news/article_3e97429c-4f5c-11e4-bed8-170aa1c1d09f.html (http://www.meridianstar.com/news/local_news/article_3e97429c-4f5c-11e4-bed8-170aa1c1d09f.html)
Keep this on your radar folks. We need to bring some balance into Washington's political landscape this November in order to move closer to this goal; that means VOTE the "right" way. VOTE only for candidates that will uphold their Oath of Office and will support and defend our rights to hunt and fish.
ALSO:
VOTE YES on I-591 (Protect Our Gun Rights)
VOTE NO on I-594 (The Anti-Gun Initiative)
Post by: huntrights on October 23, 2014, 10:29:59 PM
"State Constitutional Right to Hunt and Fish"
9/26/2014
http://www.ncsl.org/research/environment-and-natural-resources/state-constitutional-right-to-hunt-and-fish.aspx
NRA-ILA
"Mississippi: Amendment seeks to make hunting, fishing 'constitutional rights'"
http://www.nraila.org/270656]http://www.nraila.org/270656
"Amendments give Alabama voters chance to further enshrine rights to hunt, fish and own guns in state constitution"
http://www.al.com/outdoors/index.ssf/2014/10/amendments_give_alabama_voters.html
Post by: csaaphill on October 28, 2014, 05:23:27 PM
http://protecttheharvest.com/ (http://protecttheharvest.com/)
Post by: huntrights on November 05, 2014, 11:18:02 PM
"Alabama: Voters approve hunting and fishing amendment"
http://www.nraila.org/news-issues/in-the-news/2014/11/alabama-voters-approve-hunting-and-fishing-amendment.aspx
"Alabama Elections 2014 | Voters approve hunting and fishing amendment"
http://www.abc3340.com/story/27278626/alabama-elections-2014-voters-approve-hunting-and-fishing-amendment
"Mississippi: Hunting and fishing amendment given overwhelming support"
http://www.nraila.org/news-issues/in-the-news/2014/11/mississippi-hunting-and-fishing-amendment-given-overwhelming-support.aspx
"Hunting and fishing amendment given overwhelming support"
http://www.hattiesburgamerican.com/story/news/politics/elections/2014/11/04/hunting-amendment-passes/18510285/
Post by: huntrights on November 20, 2014, 12:38:56 PM
"State Constitutional Right to Hunt and Fish"
"11/12/2014
Compiled by Douglas Shinkle"
http://www.ncsl.org/research/environment-and-natural-resources/state-constitutional-right-to-hunt-and-fish.aspx (http://www.ncsl.org/research/environment-and-natural-resources/state-constitutional-right-to-hunt-and-fish.aspx)
Excerpt from the web page:
"2014 Update
Mississippi became the 18th state with a constitutional right to hunt and fish provision with 88 percent of voters in favor of the amendment. Alabama voters, nearly 80 percent of them, refined already existing language, adding that hunting and fishing are the “preferred means of managing and controlling wildlife.”
Eight states— Alabama, Indiana, Michigan, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania and West Virginia—considered bills in 2014 proposing the creation of a state constitutional amendment to protect the right to hunt and fish. The Indiana legislature adopted a resolution calling for an amendment establishing the right to hunt and fish in their constitution, but it must also pass in the 2015 or 2016 legislative session to be placed on the ballot. Legislation in Michigan, New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania is pending, while Missouri and West Virginia’s bills failed."
Post by: huntrights on January 08, 2015, 08:59:14 AM
Keep it on the radar for Washington.
"2016 Ballot Measure: Constitutional Amendment for the Right to Hunt, Fish, and Harvest Wildlife"
http://oregonoutdoorcouncil.org/2016-ballot-measure-constitutional-amendment-for-the-right-to-hunt-fish-and-harvest-wildlife/ (http://oregonoutdoorcouncil.org/2016-ballot-measure-constitutional-amendment-for-the-right-to-hunt-fish-and-harvest-wildlife/)
Post by: csaaphill on January 09, 2015, 05:22:37 PM
Has Washington been picking this up again latly?
Post by: huntrights on January 10, 2015, 03:47:41 PM
Post by: huntrights on January 12, 2015, 06:28:49 PM
https://www.nraila.org/articles/20150109/texas-protect-your-right-to-hunt-fish-urge-your-lawmaker-to-support-hjr-61-and-sjr-22 (https://www.nraila.org/articles/20150109/texas-protect-your-right-to-hunt-fish-urge-your-lawmaker-to-support-hjr-61-and-sjr-22)
Friday, January 09, 2015
"Today, state Senator Brandon Creighton (R-Conroe) pre-filed Senate Joint Resolution 22, proposing an amendment to the Texas constitution that protects the right to hunt, fish and harvest wildlife in the Lone Star State. An identical measure, House Joint Resolution 61, was pre-filed in the House on December 17.
HJR 61, introduced by state Representative Trent Ashby (R-Lufkin), and SJR 22, sponsored by Senator Creighton, would ensure that future wildlife conservation and management decisions are based on sound science in order to preserve Texas' hunting heritage for generations to come. Language for the resolution includes the following:
The people have the right to hunt, fish, and harvest wildlife, including by the use of traditional methods, subject to laws or regulations to conserve and manage wildlife and preserve the future of hunting and fishing. Hunting and fishing are preferred methods of managing and controlling wildlife. ..."
Post by: bearpaw on January 12, 2015, 06:51:39 PM
Post by: huntrights on January 12, 2015, 07:05:37 PM
We can do this. It's all about timing, the right representation in the legislature, creating alliances within the hunting and fishing communities to fully support the effort, and educating the public so they are not misled like they were with I-594.
Post by: huntrights on March 20, 2015, 05:19:27 PM
Take time to read some of what other states are proposing and the wording they use. Talk to your family, friends, and colleagues about pursuing this in Washington State. The hunting, fishing, and trapping communities must become very familiar with proposing and supporting any efforts to add an amendment to the Washington State Constitution regarding the right of public to hunt, fish and trap wildlife.
Indiana
Senate Joint Resolution 2
https://iga.in.gov/legislative/2015/resolutions/senate/joint/2#digest-heading (https://iga.in.gov/legislative/2015/resolutions/senate/joint/2#digest-heading)
PDF Version
https://iga.in.gov/static-documents/0/b/b/e/0bbe15f0/SJ0002.02.COMS.pdf (https://iga.in.gov/static-documents/0/b/b/e/0bbe15f0/SJ0002.02.COMS.pdf)
"Constitutional amendment to enshrine right to hunt, fish"
http://www.indystar.com/story/news/politics/2015/01/26/constitutional-amendment-enshrine-right-hunt-fish/22357993/ (http://www.indystar.com/story/news/politics/2015/01/26/constitutional-amendment-enshrine-right-hunt-fish/22357993/)
Nevada
"Proposes to amend the Nevada Constitution to preserve the right to hunt, trap and fish in this State"
https://www.leg.state.nv.us/Session/78th2015/Reports/history.cfm?ID=513 (https://www.leg.state.nv.us/Session/78th2015/Reports/history.cfm?ID=513)
PDF Version
http://www.leg.state.nv.us/Session/78th2015/Bills/SJR/SJR11.pdf (http://www.leg.state.nv.us/Session/78th2015/Bills/SJR/SJR11.pdf)
"Senators propose constitutional right to hunt, fish, trap"
http://www.8newsnow.com/story/28417053/senators-propose-constitutional-right-to-hunt-fish-trap (http://www.8newsnow.com/story/28417053/senators-propose-constitutional-right-to-hunt-fish-trap)
Arizona
"Bill Text: AZ HCR2014 | 2015 | Fifty-second Legislature 1st Regular | Introduced"
https://legiscan.com/AZ/text/HCR2014/id/1072776 (https://legiscan.com/AZ/text/HCR2014/id/1072776)
HCR2014 hunting and fishing; constitutional rights
http://www.azleg.gov/DocumentsForBill.asp?Session_ID=114&Bill_Number=HCR2014 (http://www.azleg.gov/DocumentsForBill.asp?Session_ID=114&Bill_Number=HCR2014)
PDF Version
http://www.azleg.gov/legtext/52leg/1r/bills/hcr2014p.pdf (http://www.azleg.gov/legtext/52leg/1r/bills/hcr2014p.pdf)
Kansas
HCR 5008 - Right of public to hunt, fish and trap
http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2015_16/measures/hcr5008/ (http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2015_16/measures/hcr5008/)
PDF Version
http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2015_16/measures/documents/hcr5008_00_0000.pdf (http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2015_16/measures/documents/hcr5008_00_0000.pdf)
Kansas: Constitutional Right to Hunt and Fish Amendment Introduced
https://www.nraila.org/articles/20150124/kansas-constitutional-right-to-hunt-and-fish-amendment-introduced (https://www.nraila.org/articles/20150124/kansas-constitutional-right-to-hunt-and-fish-amendment-introduced)
Texas
"Proposing a constitutional amendment relating to the right to hunt, fish, and harvest wildlife"
http://www.legis.state.tx.us/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=84R&Bill=HJR61 (http://www.legis.state.tx.us/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=84R&Bill=HJR61)
PDF Version
http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/84R/billtext/pdf/HJ00061I.pdf#navpanes=0 (http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/84R/billtext/pdf/HJ00061I.pdf#navpanes=0)
New Jersey
ACR12 Proposes constitutional amendment to preserve right of people to fish, hunt, trap and harvest fish and wildlife
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bills/BillView.asp (http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bills/BillView.asp)
PDF Version
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2014/Bills/ACR/12_I1.PDF (http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2014/Bills/ACR/12_I1.PDF)
New York
Bill A1159-2015
Relates to the right to hunt, trap and fish; provides for regulation by the state
http://open.nysenate.gov/legislation/bill/A1159-2015 (http://open.nysenate.gov/legislation/bill/A1159-2015)
PDF Version
http://open.nysenate.gov/legislation/api/1.0/pdf/bill/A1159-2015 (http://open.nysenate.gov/legislation/api/1.0/pdf/bill/A1159-2015)
Post by: huntrights on April 03, 2015, 12:43:19 PM
Texas
"Senate passes constitutional amendment to protect hunting, fishing rights"
Published: April 1, 2015
http://trailblazersblog.dallasnews.com/2015/04/senate-passes-constitutional-amendment-to-protect-hunting-fishing-rights.html/ (http://trailblazersblog.dallasnews.com/2015/04/senate-passes-constitutional-amendment-to-protect-hunting-fishing-rights.html/)
Post by: huntrights on April 16, 2015, 10:05:47 AM
Excerpt from the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) website:
http://www.ncsl.org/research/environment-and-natural-resources/state-constitutional-right-to-hunt-and-fish.aspx (http://www.ncsl.org/research/environment-and-natural-resources/state-constitutional-right-to-hunt-and-fish.aspx)
"3/26/2015 Douglas Shinkle"
"State Constitutional Right to Hunt and Fish"
"2015 Update
Currently in 2015, 9 states—Indiana, Kansas, Maine, Michigan, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Oregon and Texas—are debating bills that would add a constitutional right to hunt and fish. West Virginia considered two bills, but they both failed."
Post by: DOUBLELUNG on April 16, 2015, 10:20:23 AM
I think a constitutional amendment that includes legal and regulated hunting and fishing has a great chance of passing, even in Washington state.
Post by: HillSlick on April 16, 2015, 11:10:49 AM
Husky Hillbilly
Post by: huntrights on April 18, 2015, 08:55:43 AM
Oregon
http://oregonoutdoorcouncil.org/right-to-hunt-fish-constitutional-amendment-legislative-update/
"March 10, 2015 – by Dominic Aiello, President
Right to Hunt & Fish Constitutional Amendment & Legislative Update"
Post by: huntrights on May 20, 2015, 09:16:01 PM
Texas Legislature Approves NRA Backed Constitutional Amendment Protecting the Right to Hunt, Fish and Harvest Wildlife
Wednesday, May 20, 2015
https://www.nraila.org/articles/20150520/texas-legislature-approves-nra-backed-constitutional-amendment-protecting-the-right-to-hunt-fish-and-harvest-wildlife
Post by: huntrights on June 17, 2015, 08:20:46 PM
"Texas: Right to Hunt and Fish Constitutional Amendment will Appear as Proposition 6 on the November 2015 Ballot!"
Wednesday, June 17, 2015
https://www.nraila.org/articles/20150617/texas-right-to-hunt-and-fish-constitutional-amendment-will-appear-as-proposition-6-on-the-november-2015-ballot
Post by: huntrights on November 04, 2015, 09:18:50 PM
"Texas Voters Overwhelmingly Approve NRA-Backed Proposition 6!"
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2015
https://www.nraila.org/articles/20151104/texas-voters-overwhelmingly-approve-nra-backed-proposition-6
Post by: huntrights on November 15, 2015, 06:25:34 PM
National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL)
STATE CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHT TO HUNT AND FISH
http://www.ncsl.org/research/environment-and-natural-resources/state-constitutional-right-to-hunt-and-fish.aspx
Excerpt from website:
"STATE CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHT TO HUNT AND FISH
11/9/2015 Douglas Shinkle
Nineteen states guarantee the right to hunt and fish in their constitutions, with 17 of those approved via the voters. While Vermont's language dates back to 1777, the rest of these constitutional provisions—in Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Idaho, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Wisconsin and Wyoming—have passed since 1996. California and Rhode Island have language in their respective constitutions guaranteeing the right to fish, but not to hunt. Advocates also consider Alaska’s constitutional language—“Wherever occurring in their natural state, fish, wildlife, and waters are reserved to the people for common use”—as meeting the test because of its strong case law history.
2015 Update
Texas voters overwhelming approved enshrining the right to hunt and fish in the state’s constitution on November 2nd. The Nevada legislature also passed such language in 2015, but it must pass another legislative session before it is put on the ballot for voters to decide.
Michigan, New Jersey and New York are still considering legislation that would refer a constitutional right to hunt and fish to voters. Kansas, Maine, Oregon and West Virginia debated bills in 2015, but they failed to advance."
Post by: huntrights on January 20, 2016, 09:19:49 PM
"Kansas: Protect the Right to Hunt and Fish"
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2016
https://www.nraila.org/articles/20160120/kansas-protect-the-right-to-hunt-and-fish
Post by: huntrights on February 19, 2016, 05:14:41 PM
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2016
https://www.nraila.org/articles/20160219/kansas-right-to-hunt-and-fish-constitutional-amendment-headed-to-house-floor-on-monday
Post by: huntrights on February 24, 2016, 07:37:47 AM
Kansas House sends right-to-hunt amendment to Senate
FEBRUARY 22, 2016 11:42 AM
http://www.kansas.com/news/politics-government/article61753437.html
Post by: floatinghat on February 27, 2016, 12:00:58 PM
I'm not far off the banning of catch and release for salmonoid fish
case in point was fishing in BC couple years ago, clipped fin fish could be kept but intact had to be released. So we'd catch five intact fish for every clipped fish.
Of the five released per one kept maybe one or two would survive, seals and sharks would eat the rest.
stupid
Stupid, there are plenty of studies on the mortality of released fish. If you know how to land a fish the mortality is low, only a few % points. I have done a least 10 trips to lodges in BC, fish the coast and the sound a lot.
Now where BC is messed up is their laws are weighted heavily toward commercial fishing.
Post by: BGLEMIN on February 27, 2016, 04:29:00 PM
Post by: huntrights on February 29, 2016, 08:15:53 AM
To give everyone an idea of the wording used in different state Constitutions, please take a look at this list provided by the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF):
https://www.nssf.org/factsheets/PDF/StateRighttoHunFish.pdf
The timing may not be right for Washington yet, but the more we learn about how other states have done it and the wording they have used, the better positioned we will be when the time does come. There is a lot involved in such an endeavor so proper planning, and getting the right people and organizations involved will be essential. It can also be a very expensive undertaking. We may be a few years off, but keep this on your radar and learn as much as you can about making it happen. That's why the updates continue to be posted.
Post by: huntrights on March 20, 2016, 11:17:24 AM
FRIDAY, MARCH 18, 2016
https://www.nraila.org/articles/20160318/kansas-the-right-to-hunt-fish-and-trap-heads-to-november-ballot
Take a look at the wording they used:
"The people have the right to hunt, fish and trap, including by the use of traditional methods, subject to reasonable laws and regulations that promote wildlife conservation and management and that preserve the future of hunting and fishing. Public hunting and fishing shall be a preferred means of managing and controlling wildlife. This section shall not be construed to modify any provision of law relating to trespass, property rights or water resources."
A very important piece of laying the foundation for this endeavor is through outreach and education to the general, non-hunting public; they will be the major voting block that needs to have facts at their fingertips, not the emotionally-based diatribe and propaganda disseminated by anti-hunting and animal-rights zealots.
We now have Hunting Works For Washington (http://huntingworksforwa.com/) that recently entered our state. Take a look a the website. Do everything you can to to get the this information into the public spotlight.
Organizations like Washingtonians for Wildlife Conservation (WWC) (http://www.w4wc.org/index.html) is also very active in outreach and education activities in various public venues like the State Fair, the Sportsmen's Show, the Big Horn Show, The Big Tent Outdoor Recreation Coalition Rally Day Event, and others. WWC works very hard to get relevant facts and information out to the public and our legislators regarding the contributions and benefits that hunting and hunters bring to wildlife conservation and wildlife management. Consider getting your organizations to join WWC, and join as individuals or families. WWC is a United Sportsmen's Voice in Washington and is directly linked to the Hunters Heritage Council (HHC) that lobbies on behalf of the hunting community in Washington.
Post by: buckfvr on March 20, 2016, 11:41:36 AM
Remember, Constitutional rights to hunt and fish must also include responsible wildlife management through sound and unbiased science to ensure healthy and sustainable wildlife populations. That means there must be season setting, bag limits, specific numbers of permits issued, etc. That is, the laws and practices currently in place to manage our wildlife will likely stay the same. The difference is that the "privileges" will change to State Constitutional "rights"; that change will provide greater protections for our hunting and fishing heritage for generations to come.
To give everyone an idea of the wording used in different state Constitutions, please take a look at this list provided by the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF):
https://www.nssf.org/factsheets/PDF/StateRighttoHunFish.pdf
The timing may not be right for Washington yet, but the more we learn about how other states have done it and the wording they have used, the better positioned we will be when the time does come. There is a lot involved in such an endeavor so proper planning, and getting the right people and organizations involved will be essential. It can also be a very expensive undertaking. We may be a few years off, but keep this on your radar and learn as much as you can about making it happen. That's why the updates continue to be posted.
First line alone would mean wdfw upper management and there supporters would have to go.......our predicament is on them. Their unscientific, political, special interest serving ways of doing things have put the wild life of this state in a precarious situation. Digging out from this pit is going to require entirely different management.
Post by: huntrights on March 25, 2016, 09:38:48 AM
NRA-Backed Right to Hunt and Fish Amendment heading to November Ballot in Indiana
THURSDAY, MARCH 24, 2016
https://www.nraila.org/articles/20160324/nra-backed-right-to-hunt-and-fish-amendment-heading-to-november-ballot-in-indiana
Post by: mfswallace on March 25, 2016, 09:58:53 AM
Post by: huntrights on March 25, 2016, 11:21:40 PM
The North American Wildlife Conservation Model
http://www.rmef.org/Conservation/HuntingIsConservation/NorthAmericanWildlifeConservationModel.aspx
Hunting Works for America expanded into Washington last year (http://huntingworksforwa.com/).
Hunting Works For America Expands Presence in Pacific Northwest with Washington Chapter.
http://www.nssfblog.com/hunting-works-for-america-expands-presence-in-pacific-northwest-with-washington-chapter/
Hunting Works for Washington provides economic information that all in the hunting community can have readily available to respectfully share with non-hunters when opportunities arise.
It is also worthwhile to watch the video about the Colorado model; it shows why public education and awareness about hunting and fishing is absolutely essential.
http://nimrodsociety.org/education/
It will take lots of effort from many organizations, agencies, our legislators, and individuals; we are all in this endeavor together. Washington hunters and anglers need to step up to the plate and get engaged in the process; our hunting and fishing heritage depends on it.
Post by: huntrights on April 25, 2016, 07:46:14 AM
RTHF News from the NRA-ILA
Right to Hunt & Fish Amendments
https://www.nraila.org/issues/hunting-and-conservation/right-to-hunt-fish-amendments/
"America’s sporting heritage is under attack like never before, by well-funded, national anti-hunting groups that want to ban all hunting, trapping and fishing. One of the ways that the NRA counters that effort is by spearheading the campaign for Right to Hunt and Fish (RTHF) state constitutional amendments. Currently, 19 states have RTHF amendments in their constitutions, protecting America’s rich outdoor heritage from well-funded efforts by national animal extremist groups to get hunting banned.
The following language serves as the model RTHF amendment, providing meaningful and permanent protections for sportsmen and science-driven wildlife management.
The citizens of this State have the right to hunt, fish, and harvest wildlife, including the use of traditional methods, subject only to statutes enacted by the Legislature and regulations adopted by the designated agency [or “fish and game commission” or state-specific term] to promote wildlife conservation and management and to preserve the future of hunting and fishing. Public hunting and fishing shall be a preferred means of managing and controlling wildlife. This section shall not be construed to modify any provision of law relating to trespass or property rights.
The model language:
Declares that the people have the right to hunt, fish and harvest wildlife, and assures that this right will not be arbitrarily curtailed by lawsuits filed by anti-hunting extremists, nor by regulations that are based solely on emotions and political correctness.
Protects the right to hunt and fish by “traditional methods,” including the use of firearms, archery equipment, and other equipment traditionally used by hunters, trappers and fishermen.
Subjects hunting, trapping and fishing only to statutes enacted by the legislature and regulations adopted by the fish and game commission, however designated in state law, which has expertise in wildlife conservation.
Protects hunting, trapping and fishing from activist courts that would seek to advance the anti-hunting agenda of animal “rights” extremists, contradictory to sound, proven wildlife conservation and management practices.
Protects the traditional property rights of farmers and other land owners.
Now is the time for sportsmen to stand together to protect our hunting heritage. Wildlife conservation and future generations of sportsmen depend on it. With new anti-hunting groups forming, existing anti-hunting groups combining forces, and activist judges waiting to rule according to their biases, rather than according to the law, the threat to America’s hunting heritage has never been greater. In the same way that anti-gun groups have tried to divide and conquer by targeting certain types of guns one at a time, anti-hunting groups will target specific forms of hunting and attempt to whittle away at America’s hunting heritage one step at a time. The radical words of Wayne Pacelle, leader of the powerful Humane Society of the United States, speak for themselves:
"We are going to use the ballot box and the democratic process to stop all hunting in the United States. . . . We will take it species by species until all hunting is stopped in California. Then we will take it state by state." - Full Cry Magazine, Oct 1, 1990
"Our opponents say hunting is a tradition. We say traditions can change." - Bozeman Daily Chronicle, Oct. 8, 1991
"If we could shut down all sport hunting in a moment, we would." - Associated Press, Dec. 30, 1991
As the largest pro-hunting organization in the world, NRA strongly supports public hunting as a preferred means of managing and controlling wildlife populations, and protects the tradition of hunting through lobbying, programs and the activism of our members. NRA stands on the front lines at the federal, state and local levels, to protect the rights of hunters and the Second Amendment rights of all gun owners. RTHF amendments are one of the most important NRA-led efforts to protect hunting today, as they will ensure that future wildlife conservation and management decisions will be based on sound science and preserve our hunting heritage for generations to come.
Currently, 19 states have RTHF amendments in their constitutions, protecting America’s rich sporting tradition from well-funded efforts by national animal extremist groups to get hunting banned.
States with NRA RTHF Model Language
State Year of Adoption Voter Approval
Alabama 2014 80%
Arkansas 2010 83%
Idaho 2012 73%
Kentucky 2012 84%
Mississippi 2014 88%
Nebraska 2012 77%
Oklahoma 2008 80%
South Carolina 2010 89%
Tennessee 2010 90%
Texas 2015 81%
States with Some Form of RTHF Language
State Year of Adoption Voter Approval
Georgia 2006 81%
Louisiana 2004 81%
Minnesota 1998 77%
Montana 2004 81%
North Dakota 2000 77%
Vermont 1777
Virginia 2000 60%
Wisconsin 2003 82%
Wyoming 2012 85%
Right to Hunt & Fish in State Statute
State
Florida
New Hampshire
Right to Fish
State
California
Rhode Island "
NRA-Backed Right to Hunt and Fish Amendment heading to November Ballot in Indiana
THURSDAY, MARCH 24, 2016
https://www.nraila.org/articles/20160324/nra-backed-right-to-hunt-and-fish-amendment-heading-to-november-ballot-in-indiana
Indiana: Governor Pence Approves Two Pro-Hunting Measures!
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 23, 2016
https://www.nraila.org/articles/20160323/indiana-governor-pence-approves-two-pro-hunting-measures
Post by: Magnum_Willys on April 25, 2016, 08:00:04 AM
Post by: huntrights on April 25, 2016, 09:56:12 AM
It can happen if we all work together.
Post by: huntrights on May 26, 2016, 05:49:28 PM
THURSDAY, MAY 26, 2016
https://www.nraila.org/articles/20160526/north-carolina-right-to-hunt-and-fish-legislation-introduced
Excerpt from the article:
"Yesterday, Senate Bill 889 9http://www.ncleg.net/gascripts/BillLookUp/BillLookUp.pl?Session=2015&BillID=S889&submitButton=Go) was introduced in the North Carolina state senate. S889 seeks to amend the North Carolina Constitution to affirm that it is a right of the public to hunt, fish and harvest wildlife as such:
The right of the people to hunt, fish, and harvest wildlife, including by the use of traditional methods, shall not be infringed, subject to laws and regulations to promote wildlife conservation and management, to maintain natural resources in trust for public use, and to preserve the future of hunting and fishing. Public hunting and fishing shall be a preferred means of managing and controlling wildlife. Nothing herein shall be construed to modify any provision of law relating to eminent domain, trespass, or property rights.
Hunting, fishing, and harvesting wildlife are not only cherished North Carolinian traditions, but paired with science, are an integral part of wildlife management and conservation. Unfortunately, misguided extremists have been trying for decades to incrementally or outright ban hunting, fishing, and harvesting wildlife. This amendment guarantees the sporting traditions that you have enjoyed will still be around for future generations of Americans and that regulations will always be based on sound science."
Post by: huntrights on June 07, 2016, 06:06:22 PM
TUESDAY, JUNE 7, 2016
https://www.nraila.org/articles/20160607/north-carolina-support-right-to-hunt-and-fish-legislation
Post by: huntrights on February 21, 2017, 04:57:59 PM
Information from the National Conference of State Legislatures
http://www.ncsl.org/research/environment-and-natural-resources/state-constitutional-right-to-hunt-and-fish.aspx
"STATE CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHT TO HUNT AND FISH
2016 Update
Indiana and Kansas voters approved amendments their respective state constitution to include the right to hunt and fish.
Similar legislation preserving the constitutional right to hunt and fish is currently pending in Illinois, Michigan, New Jersey, New York.
Nevada passed language to amend its constitution to include the right to hunt and fish in 2015, but the language will not be effective until passed by the 2017 Legislature and approved by voters at the 2018 General Election.
Colorado, Iowa, Maine, Missouri, North Carolina, West Virginia introduced legislation on the constitutional right to hunt and fish issue in 2016, but did not pass.
Oklahoma passed a similar 2016 ballot initiative to consider a constitutional amendment to secure the right to farm and ranch."
Positive local news on the subject from:
The Daily News - tdn.com
Takko, Braun seek constitutional protection for hunting, fishing
http://tdn.com/news/takko-braun-seek-constitutional-protection-for-hunting-fishing/article_bc5fc2f4-b88d-5b38-aeab-e3ae606fc6a0.html
Please support this effort as it moves forward.