Washington 2023-2024 Regular Session

Washington House Bill HJR4212

Introduced
1/24/24  

Caption

Enshrining the right to hunt and fish in the state Constitution.

Impact

If enacted, HJR4212 would amend the state constitution, by adding provisions that explicitly guarantee the rights to hunt and fish, reinforcing existing laws that support these activities. This amendment would likely bolster the legal framework surrounding hunting and fishing rights, reinforcing protections for recreational hunters and anglers against upcoming regulations that may attempt to limit these rights. Additionally, it may provide a basis for legal challenges to any future restrictions imposed on such activities.

Summary

HJR4212 seeks to enshrine the right to hunt and fish within the state Constitution, reflecting a commitment to preserving these activities for future generations. This resolution represents a proactive measure to protect residents' rights to engage in these traditional outdoor activities, which are viewed not only as leisure pursuits but as important cultural traditions within the state. By establishing this right constitutionally, proponents aim to fortify it against potential legislative changes that could restrict these practices in the future.

Contention

Debates surrounding HJR4212 reflect broader discussions about wildlife management and conservation. Supporters view the bill as essential for safeguarding personal freedoms and promoting outdoor recreation, crucial not only for individual enjoyment but also for economic incentives related to hunting and fishing tourism. Opponents, however, may argue that unrestricted hunting and fishing could pose risks to wildlife populations and habitats, advocating for balanced regulations that ensure sustainability alongside personal freedoms. The potential environmental implications of enshrining such rights in the constitution remain points of contention that would need careful consideration.

Companion Bills

WA SJR8208

Crossfiled Enshrining the right to hunt and fish in the state Constitution.

Previously Filed As

WA SJR8208

Enshrining the right to hunt and fish in the state Constitution.

WA LR20CA

Constitutional amendment to protect the right of individual privacy

WA LR18CA

Constitutional amendment to protect the right to reproductive freedom

WA HJM4005

Rescinding prior applications for a constitutional convention to propose amendments to the Constitution of the United States.

WA SJM8008

Rescinding prior applications for a constitutional convention to propose amendments to the Constitution of the United States.

WA LR19CA

Constitutional amendment to protect the right to reproductive freedom and prohibit the state from taking adverse action for exercising or assisting in the exercise of such right

WA LR278CA

Constitutional amendment to change the membership of the State Board of Education

WA LR28CA

Constitutional amendment to change the membership of the State Board of Education

WA LR22CA

Constitutional amendment to provide the right to a clean and healthy natural environment and that the state and political subdivisions serve as trustee of the natural resources of Nebraska

WA LR280CA

Constitutional amendment to remove the Attorney General and the Secretary of State from the Board of Pardons

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.