Florida Voters to Decide on Constitutional Fishing and Hunting Rights

Florida's November ballot will include Amendment 2, a measure to establish fishing and hunting as constitutional rights.

The proposal aims to preserve fishing and hunting as a "public right and preferred means" of managing wildlife, without limiting the authority of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

Supporters, including outdoors groups, argue the amendment will safeguard Florida's cultural heritage from potential future challenges.

Critics, such as the Animal Law Section of the Florida Bar, contend it could permit controversial hunting practices and lead to unnecessary wildlife deaths.

Martha Guyas of the American Sportfishing Association cited challenges in other states as justification for the preemptive measure.

Opponents like Chuck O'Neal of NoTo2.org argue the amendment is unnecessary and could harm Florida's wildlife.

Concerns include the potential for invasive animal culling instead of relocation and the justification of practices like trophy hunting.

The amendment has gained bipartisan support in the state legislature, passing unanimously in the House and 38-1 in the Senate.

Yes On 2, the group backing the amendment, has raised over $450,000, significantly outpacing the opposing committee's fundraising efforts.

To pass in November, the amendment requires support from at least 60% of voters.