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LD 988

An Act To Allow Hunting On University Of Maine System Property

132nd Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Russell Black and 3 co-sponsors

Failed bill that would have permitted hunting on University of Maine System properties despite institutional concerns about campus safety and property management control.

Pursuant to Joint Rule 310.3 Placed in Legislative Files (DEAD)
#managementareas #universityofmaine #wildlife
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Bill Summary · LD 988

Legislative bill overview

LD 988 proposed to allow hunting on University of Maine System property, permitting hunters to pursue game animals on campus lands. The bill was introduced in the 2025 legislative session but was rejected by committee, receiving an "Ought Not to Pass" (ONTP) recommendation before being placed in legislative files as dead.

Why is this important

University lands represent significant acreage across Maine that currently prohibits hunting, affecting both recreational hunters seeking access and universities managing wildlife on their properties. The bill touches on competing interests: outdoor recreation access versus institutional control over campus safety, property management, and academic operations.

Potential points of contention

  • Campus safety concerns: Universities likely opposed the measure due to risks posed by armed hunters near student housing, research facilities, and public gathering spaces
  • Property rights and institutional autonomy: Whether state legislatures should mandate how university systems manage their own land and facilities
  • Wildlife management conflicts: Unclear how hunting would coordinate with existing university land management practices and conservation goals on those properties

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

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