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SD 225

An Act relative to disabled veterans fishing and hunting licenses

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Bruce Tarr and 1 co-sponsor

Massachusetts bill waives or reduces fishing and hunting license fees for disabled veterans to improve recreational access, but lacks specified funding offsets for state wildlife programs.

House concurred
0
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Bill Summary · SD 225

Legislative bill overview

SD 225 provides disabled veterans in Massachusetts with fishing and hunting licenses at a reduced or waived cost. The bill specifically addresses access to recreational activities for veterans with service-connected disabilities, removing financial barriers to outdoor recreation that non-disabled citizens must pay for.

Why is this important

Disabled veterans often face fixed or limited incomes and reduced earning capacity due to service-connected conditions. Fishing and hunting provide documented mental and physical health benefits, including stress relief and community engagement. This policy recognizes veterans' service while improving access to low-cost recreational activities that support wellbeing.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost to state fish and wildlife programs: Waived or reduced license fees reduce revenue that funds habitat conservation, wildlife management, and fisheries enforcement—the bill doesn't specify funding offsets
  • Definition scope: The bill's exact eligibility criteria (percentage of disability, types of disabilities, service-connection requirements) aren't detailed in available summaries; unclear how broadly "disabled veterans" is defined
  • Administrative implementation: Determining veteran status and disability verification requires coordination between state wildlife agencies and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, creating potential compliance burden

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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