Michigan House Bill HJRU

Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/27/24
• Refer: 6/27/24

Caption

Natural resources: hunting; right to hunt, fish, and harvest wildlife; recognize in constitution. Amends the state constitution by adding sec. 29 to art. I.

Impact

If passed, HJRU would formally acknowledge the right to hunt, fish, and harvest wildlife as a constitutional right for all citizens, potentially altering the landscape of natural resource management in Michigan. Citizens would have guaranteed times to exercise these rights, and public hunting and fishing would be considered preferred methods for managing non-threatening species, promoting a traditional approach to wildlife management within the context of conservation efforts.

Summary

House Joint Resolution U (HJRU) proposes an amendment to the Michigan State Constitution of 1963 by adding section 29 to article I, which aims to enshrine the rights of citizens to hunt, fish, trap, and harvest wildlife. This resolution is framed as a recognition of the heritage of the state and is intended to promote the ongoing health of its natural resources. The amendment establishes a constitutional guarantee for these activities while ensuring that any exercise of these rights aligns with regulations aimed at wildlife conservation and management.

Contention

The bill has generated discussions around the balance between preserving individual rights and ensuring sustainable wildlife management practices. Some stakeholders may view this amendment as an essential step towards recognizing long-held traditions and rights, while others could argue that it may complicate future wildlife conservation efforts if not managed within strict regulatory frameworks. The amendment also explicitly states that it does not override existing laws relating to trespassing, private property rights, and firearms unrelated to hunting, which could mitigate some concerns regarding potential conflicts with existing statutes.