hunting rights

[hungry hunter]

I read in a article recently about some states that have amended their constitution to protect their hunting and fishing rights. does anyone know if this has ever been done in michigan?are we one of the few mentioned in the article? and if not what are your thoughts on the subject

[SteveS]

AFAIK, the MI Constitution contains no provisions that explicitly protect hunting rights. I think it would be a good thing, but it is hard to say how the courts and legislature would interpret those rights. The current MI Constitution contains pretty strong words in regards to the right to bear arms, but that hasn't stopped the legislature and courts from placing restrictions on those rights.

[Blue Mist]

Are you concerned that the constitution did not include hunting rights or just concerned that Michigan Law should protect hunting rights? There are laws in Michigan that protect hunters and fishermen, who are legally enjoying their sport, from interference by another person. Constitutional amendments used to be pretty difficult to pass, although lately, that doesn't seem to be as true. I'm pretty comfortable with these rights being protected by laws as they are now.

Randy

[hungry hunter]

I guess i worry that laws could be changed by anti huntung groups who collect signatures to put on the ballot to end hunting for example the dove bill could they collect signatures for deer,rabbit squirrels ect. until there is no hunting? i know the vote would determine the outcome but in this day and age who knows

[Erik]

The way I understand it is hunting is a priveledge and not a right. Unless your a native american. I know that sounds a little screwed up, but I'm pretty sure thats the way the government addresses it.

[SteveS]

The way I understand it is hunting is a priveledge and not a right. Unless your a native american. I know that sounds a little screwed up, but I'm pretty sure thats the way the government addresses it.


I think that is why HH is asking the question. Some states have stated that hunting is a right, which would effective stop some special interest groups from pushing outright bans.

[bucknduck]

Maybe we should start a petition to amend the Michigan constitution to add hunting and fishing as rights instead of privileges. Put an end to all the anti groups once and for all.