Provide for issuance of free annual combination fishing, fur-harvesting, and hunting permits, habitat stamps, aquatic habitat stamps, and Nebraska migratory waterfowl stamps to certain veterans and members of the armed forces of the United States
Impact
If enacted, LB1036 would modify existing state laws relating to the issuance of hunting and fishing permits, significantly impacting how these permits are distributed to veterans and active service members. This change is expected to increase access to outdoor activities for individuals who have served in the military, potentially leading to a greater public interest in conservation efforts and wildlife management in Nebraska as veterans take advantage of these permits to engage in outdoor life.
Summary
LB1036 proposes the issuance of free annual combination fishing, fur-harvesting, and hunting permits, as well as habitat stamps, aquatic habitat stamps, and Nebraska migratory waterfowl stamps to specific veterans and members of the armed forces of the United States. This initiative is aimed at honoring those who have served the country by providing them with enhanced opportunities to engage in outdoor recreational activities without the associated costs of permits.
Contention
The bill may face discussions around budget implications, particularly regarding the lost revenue from permit fees that traditionally fund wildlife conservation and management programs. Advocates argue that the social and health benefits of increased outdoor participation for veterans justify this shift, while others may express concerns about the sustainability of funding for ongoing conservation efforts reliant on permit fees.
Provide for free issuance of annual combination fishing, fur-harvesting, and hunting permits, habitat stamps, aquatic habitat stamps, and Nebraska migratory waterfowl stamps to certain veterans
Provide for combination fishing, fur-harvesting, and hunting permits and stamps and state park entry permits for resident and nonresident veterans and active duty military personnel
Provide for a voluntary hunting and fishing guide and outfitter database, a migratory waterfowl hunting season for veterans, active-duty military state park entry permits, change provisions relating to the Nebraska Power Review Board and the Petroleum Release Remedial Action Cash Fund, and prohibit restrictions on the provision of services related to natural gas and propane