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H 1062

An Act relative to hunting with artificial light

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Dave Vieira

Massachusetts bill modifies artificial light restrictions for hunters, affecting hunting practices and wildlife management through regulatory changes enforced by state authorities.

Accompanied a study order, see H5307
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Bill Summary · H 1062

Legislative bill overview

H.1062 addresses the regulation of hunting with artificial light in Massachusetts. The bill modifies existing laws governing when and how hunters can use artificial lighting devices during hunting activities. This represents a shift in the state's wildlife management approach to artificial light use.

Why is this important

Artificial light regulations directly affect hunting safety, wildlife behavior, and fair chase principles. Changes to these rules impact hunter access, wildlife population management effectiveness, and enforcement by the Department of Fish and Game. The outcome could affect thousands of Massachusetts hunters and various game species.

Potential points of contention

  • Safety vs. access trade-off: Restricting artificial light may enhance hunter safety but could limit hunting opportunities in low-light conditions, particularly for evening/dawn hunting
  • Fair chase concerns: Artificial light can provide significant advantages in locating and targeting game, raising questions about whether proposed changes strengthen or weaken fair chase standards
  • Implementation and enforcement: New regulations require clear definitions of prohibited lights and reliable enforcement mechanisms, which may strain state wildlife resources

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

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