MIAMI - While constitutional amendments around marijuana legislation and abortion rights have seemingly dominated state airwaves, Amendment 2 is another important ballot measure Florida voters will make a choice on in November.
Simply stated, The Florida Right to Hunt and Fish Amendment would establish a constitutional right to hunt and fish in Florida. Opposition to the measure will not grant that right.
"Fishing, hunting, and taking of fish and wildlife, including by the use of traditional methods, shall be preserved forever as a public right and preferred means of responsibly managing and controlling fish and wildlife," the amendment reads.
One of the most biodiverse states in the United States, Florida's Amendment 2 is being backed by the Yes On 2 campaign. It also has received support from Agricultural Commissioner Wilton Simpson and Florida House Speaker Paul Renner, R- Palm Coast.
"Our right to fish and hunt are on the ballot this November. Join me in protecting our freedom to enjoy everything this great state has to offer," Simpson recently said on social media.
Other lawmakers backing Amendment 2 include Rep. Lauren Melo, R-Naples, and Sen. Jim Boyd, R-Bradenton. The initiative also has received support from Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Chairman Rodney Barreto.
The right to hunt, fish, and harvest wildlife is currently protected in 23 states. In 2020, Utah became the latest to pass a constitutional amendment after state residents approved the measure.
Historically, Vermont was the first state to adopt the right to hunt and fish in 1777. Others state that to grant the provision include Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, and more.
On the flip side, Amendment 2 is being opposed by the No To 2 campaign and organizations such as World Animal Protection. Other organizations against the measure include Humane Wildlife Consulting of South Florida and the Humane Society of the United States.
No To 2 also claimed the measure would threaten private property rights and "enable hunters to trespass onto your property in pursuit of the animals they want to kill."
"This dangerous and misleading amendment will strip Florida citizens of their power to protect and conserve wild animals. "It’s designed to trick voters into allowing some of the cruelest forms of hunting and prevent citizens, scientists, and agencies from protecting wildlife in the future," World Animal Protection said.
Amendment 2 would require a 60% vote to pass. If adopted, Florida would become the 24th state to grant the right to hunt and fish in the United States.
