Amendment 2 on the upcoming ballot aims to protect the right to fish and hunt in Florida.
It’s a response to concerns about potential bans and restrictions seen in other states.
By voting on November 5, 2024, Floridians will decide whether to enshrine these activities, including traditional methods, as preferred ways to manage fish and wildlife. This doesn’t change the authority of the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
Supporters say it preserves Florida’s fishing and hunting traditions, which are crucial culturally, economically, and for conservation. The amendment is also seen as a way to promote sustainable wildlife management practices without undoing existing protections or regulations.
Recent debates in other states about bans on hunting and fishing have sparked interest in ensuring these activities remain protected in Florida. If passed, Amendment 2 would align Florida with 23 other states that have similar constitutional protections.
Critics and supporters alike are discussing what “traditional methods” mean in practice. It’s meant to include current legal practices without introducing new rules on property rights or trespassing laws.
It’s a significant issue for voters concerned about the future of outdoor recreation and wildlife management in the state.
