Maryland 2025 Regular Session

Maryland Senate Bill SB417

Introduced
1/20/25  

Caption

Carroll County - Natural Resources - Sunday Hunting

Impact

If enacted, SB 417 would specifically alter the section of Maryland's Natural Resource laws regarding Sunday hunting restrictions. By granting permission to hunt on Sundays in Carroll County, the bill would eliminate a long-standing prohibition, reflecting a broader trend towards liberalizing hunting regulations in various jurisdictions. Proponents argue that this change could help increase participation in outdoor activities, thus supporting the local economy and fostering a culture of conservation and responsible hunting practices.

Summary

Senate Bill 417 seeks to amend existing state laws to permit hunting in Carroll County on Sundays during designated game bird and game mammal seasons. The bill aims to expand hunting opportunities for residents by aligning local regulations with those in other counties that currently allow Sunday hunting. This legislative change is positioned as a way to enhance recreational activities and promote responsible wildlife management while addressing the demands of local hunters who seek additional days for their pursuits.

Contention

Discussions surrounding SB 417 highlight notable contention among various stakeholders, including environmental advocates, local government officials, and hunting organizations. Supporters of the bill argue that allowing Sunday hunting would better accommodate the schedules of working individuals and families, thus encouraging more participation in hunting. Conversely, opponents raise concerns over potential negative impacts on wildlife populations and public safety, emphasizing the need for careful management of hunting practices. The debate continues as various perspectives on wildlife conservation and recreational access are weighed.

Companion Bills

MD HB832

Crossfiled Carroll County - Natural Resources - Sunday Hunting

Previously Filed As

MD SB155

Prince George's County - Natural Resources - Sunday Deer Hunting and Archery Hunting Safety Zones

MD SB824

Worcester County - Natural Resources - Hunting

MD HB466

Worcester County - Natural Resources - Hunting

MD HB467

Worcester County - Turkey Hunting - Sundays

MD SB796

Wicomico County - Sunday Hunting and Archery Hunting Safety Zones

MD HB1087

Wicomico County - Sunday Hunting and Archery Hunting Safety Zones

MD SB777

Middle Shore Counties - Sunday Hunting - Repeal of Time Restrictions

MD HB1118

Middle Shore Counties - Sunday Hunting - Repeal of Time Restrictions

MD HB1500

Dorchester County - Sunday Hunting - Repeal of Time Restrictions

MD SB847

Dorchester County - Sunday Hunting - Repeal of Time Restrictions

Similar Bills

CA ACA1

Public finance.

CA ACA19

State finance: budget: unemployment insurance debt repayment.

US HB1832

Special Immigrant Visas for Afghan Fulbright Scholars Act of 2023

WY HB0070

Local government distributions.

WY SF0060

Sales tax distribution rates.

IA HF668

A bill for an act relating to property taxation for commercial child care centers and facilities and including effective date, applicability, and retroactive applicability provisions.(Formerly HSB 224.)

IA HSB224

A bill for an act relating to property taxation for commercial child care centers and facilities and including effective date, applicability, and retroactive applicability provisions.(See HF 668.)

WY HB0042

Local government distributions.