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HD 95

An Act relative to hunting on Sunday

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Donnie Berthiaume and 1 co-sponsor

Massachusetts bill permits Sunday hunting, extending hunters' season access while raising safety, religious, and public land-use concerns.

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Bill Summary · HD 95

Legislative bill overview

HD 95 would allow hunting on Sundays in Massachusetts, a practice currently prohibited by state law. The bill removes the existing blanket ban on Sunday hunting, potentially aligning Massachusetts with neighboring states that permit this activity.

Why is this important

This change affects roughly 70,000+ licensed hunters in Massachusetts and could extend hunting seasons' effective duration. It also touches on cultural practices, religious traditions, and wildlife management timing, making it a socially and politically charged issue.

Potential points of contention

  • Religious and cultural opposition: Sunday holds religious significance for many communities; traditional "day of rest" arguments may generate substantial public pushback
  • Public safety concerns: Expanded hunting days could increase accidental injuries and conflicts with hikers/outdoor recreationists who use Sunday for non-hunting activities
  • Wildlife management trade-offs: Proponents argue extended hunting improves population control; opponents worry about overhunting and ecosystem disruption
  • Equity in public land use: Creates potential conflicts between hunting and non-hunting recreational activities on shared public spaces

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

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