Maine Senate gives unanimous initial approval to Sen. Hickman bill to protect the right to harvest wildlife in Maine

AUGUSTA — On Monday, June 2, the Maine Senate voted unanimously in support of LD 1343, “An Act to Protect the Right to Harvest Wildlife.” This bipartisan bill, from Senator Craig Hickman, D-Winthrop, would protect Maine people’s right to harvest wildlife.

“The Senate has declared today that the people of Maine have a right to harvest wildlife by hunting, fishing and trapping — subject to appropriate regulation,” said Sen. Hickman. “Maine’s constitutional right to food will be clearer and stronger when this bill is passed. With this legislation, we recognize Maine people’s long history of harvesting fish and wildlife to feed ourselves, and ensure these traditions can be continued for generations to come.”

LD 1343, as amended, would define the verb “harvest” in statute to clarify its meaning. It also specifies that harvesting be for “human consumption, nourishment, sustenance, bodily health or well-being” or for “sustainable use” and defines this term. The bill declares that the people of Maine have a right to harvest wildlife by hunting, fishing and trapping, subject to applicable laws, rules and regulation. It recognizes that the harvesting of wildlife is a valued part of the cultural heritage of Maine and acknowledges the essential role played by wildlife harvesting in the State’s economy and the biological management of certain environments.

In his testimony in support of the bill at the public hearing on April 11, House Republican Leader Billy Bob Faulkingham, R-Winter Harbor, said, “I strongly believe that this legislation is a necessary step in safeguarding the long-standing tradition of harvesting wildlife through hunting, fishing, and trapping here in Maine. … For many of us, these activities are not just pastimes — they are integral to our way of life.”

LD 1343 received support from Sportsman’s Alliance of Maine, Maine Professional Guides Association, and Maine Trappers Association at the public hearing.

LD 1343 now faces additional votes in the House and Senate.

Sen. Hickman is the co-author of Maine’s Right to Food constitutional amendment. He represents District 14, which includes Chelsea, Farmingdale, Gardiner, Hallowell, Manchester, Monmouth, Pittston, Randolph, Readfield, Wayne, West Gardiner and Winthrop in Kennebec County.

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