By Blake Jackson
Kentucky's farm owners and their families can rejoice! The state Senate unanimously passed the first bill of the 2024 session, granting them easier access to hunting and fishing on their own land.
Senate Bill 5, sponsored by Republican Sen. Gex Williams, removes the five-acre ownership requirement that previously barred some residential landowners from exemption from hunting and fishing licenses. This bipartisan move received vocal support from both sides of the aisle, with Sen. Robin Webb, a Democrat, championing the bill's fairness and clarity.
"I am thrilled that all Senators recognize the importance of this issue," Williams said, expressing his satisfaction with the unanimous vote. "Instead of sweeping changes, SB 5 simply clarifies and streamlines our regulations, ensuring hunting and fishing opportunities for those who deserve it most."
The bill's journey is far from over, though. It now heads to the House of Representatives for further consideration. However, the swift and unanimous Senate approval bodes well for its future.
One notable change made in committee was the addition of an "emergency clause." This means the bill, if signed by the governor or overridden after a potential veto, would take effect immediately, bringing joy to Kentucky's farm families sooner rather than later.
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Categories: Kentucky, Government & Policy