(COLUMBUS) - Ohio legislators are debating a proposal that would add a constitutional right to hunt and fish, a move supporters say is essential to preserving the state's heritage and economic strength. Senate Joint Resolution 8 would amend the Ohio Constitution to recognize hunting and fishing as fundamental rights. The measure must pass both legislative chambers with three-fifths support before appearing on the November 2026 statewide ballot.
The proposal would add a new Section 23 to Article I, stating that "the right to hunt, fish and harvest wildlife is a valued part of Ohio's heritage and shall be forever preserved for the public good." It designates those activities as the preferred method of wildlife management and restricts regulatory authority to the General Assembly or its delegated agencies. About two dozen states have adopted similar amendments since 1996, most recently Florida in 2024. Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, and many others already guarantee hunting and fishing rights in their constitutions. Supporters argue the change will protect wildlife management practices for future generations. Critics in other states have countered that such amendments are unnecessary or could complicate conservation policy, though no organized opposition has formed in Ohio. The measure remains under consideration in the Senate General Government Committee.