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A 9115

Relates to a constitutional right to hunt, trap and fish

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Marianne Buttenschon

Bill A 9115 aims to enshrine the right to hunt, trap, and fish in the state constitution, protecting these activities for future generations while balancing conservation needs.

OPINION REFERRED TO JUDICIARY
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Bill Summary · A 9115

Summary of Bill A 9115: Constitutional Right to Hunt, Trap, and Fish

Bill Overview

  • Bill Number: A 9115
  • Title: Relates to a constitutional right to hunt, trap, and fish
  • Status: Opinion referred to Judiciary
  • Introduced: September 26, 2025
  • Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill A 9115 seeks to establish a constitutional right for individuals to hunt, trap, and fish within the state. The intent behind this legislation is to protect and enshrine these activities as fundamental rights, ensuring that they are preserved for future generations and recognized as part of the state's cultural heritage and recreational practices.

Key Provisions

  • Constitutional Amendment: The bill proposes an amendment to the state constitution that explicitly guarantees the right to hunt, trap, and fish.
  • Regulatory Framework: While the bill affirms these rights, it may also outline the need for regulations to ensure sustainable practices and wildlife conservation.
  • Protection of Rights: The legislation aims to prevent any future laws or regulations that could infringe upon these rights without just cause.

Affected Parties

  • Hunters, Trappers, and Fishers: The primary beneficiaries of this bill would be individuals and groups engaged in hunting, trapping, and fishing activities.
  • Wildlife Conservationists: While the bill supports recreational activities, it may also impact conservation efforts, as regulations will need to balance rights with ecological sustainability.
  • State Agencies: Agencies responsible for wildlife management and environmental conservation may need to adapt their policies and regulations in response to the constitutional amendment.

Legislative Process and Timeline

  • Introduced: The bill was introduced on September 26, 2025, and was initially referred to the Environmental Conservation Committee.
  • Legal Opinion Requested: On October 10, 2025, the bill was sent to the Attorney General for an opinion, likely to assess the legal implications of enshrining such rights in the state constitution.
  • Judiciary Review: On November 5, 2025, the bill was referred to the Judiciary Committee for further consideration, indicating that legal and constitutional aspects will be closely examined.

Related Legislation

Bill A 9115 is connected to several prior-session bills that have addressed similar themes regarding hunting and fishing rights, including:
- A 1159
- A 1704
- A 6864
- A 534
- A 3701
- A 239
- A 3348
- S 2428 (companion bill)

Conclusion

Bill A 9115 represents a significant legislative effort to secure the rights of individuals to engage in hunting, trapping, and fishing as constitutional rights. As it progresses through the legislative process, its implications for wildlife management and conservation practices will be critical areas of focus. The outcome of this bill could set a precedent for how recreational rights are viewed and protected in the state.

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

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