WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

CACR 15

relating to the right to hunt, fish, and harvest game and fish. Providing that citizens of New Hampshire shall have the constitutional right to hunt, fish, and harvest game and fish, subject to restrictions existing in law.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by J.D. Bernardy and 7 co-sponsors

Constitutional amendment guaranteeing New Hampshire citizens' right to hunt, fish, and harvest wildlife within existing legal restrictions.

Ought to Pass: MF RC 199-128 Lacking Necessary Three-Fifths Vote 03/11/2026 HJ 7 P. 176
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · CACR 15

Legislative bill overview

CACR 15 proposes a constitutional amendment establishing an explicit right for New Hampshire citizens to hunt, fish, and harvest game and fish. The amendment would enshrine these activities in the state constitution while maintaining that existing fish and game laws can still restrict how, when, and where these activities occur.

Why is this important

Constitutional amendments are difficult to pass and represent fundamental shifts in state governance. Adding hunting and fishing rights to the constitution would elevate these activities above ordinary legislation, making them harder to eliminate through standard lawmaking. This reflects ongoing national debates about natural resource access and conservation authority.

Potential points of contention

  • Constitutional vs. statutory approach: Critics may argue these rights are already protected through fish and game statutes and don't require constitutional status, while supporters contend constitutional protection better safeguards against future restrictions
  • Conservation vs. rights balance: Environmental groups may worry that constitionalizing harvest rights could complicate future conservation measures if population declines require stricter limits
  • Scope ambiguity: Questions may arise about what "harvest" includes (all species? commercially?) and whether the phrase "subject to restrictions in law" adequately limits the right or leaves it largely unrestricted

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

Sign in to ask a question.