REFERENCE TITLE: hunting and fishing; constitutional rights

State of Arizona House of Representatives Fifty-second Legislature First Regular Session 2015

HCR 2014

Introduced by Representatives Thorpe, Finchem: Borrelli, Fann, Livingston

 

A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION

 

proposing an amendment to the Constitution of Arizona; amending article II, ConStitution of Arizona, by adding section 38; relating to hunting and fishing.

 

 

(TEXT OF BILL BEGINS ON NEXT PAGE)

 

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives of the State of Arizona, the Senate concurring:

1.  Article II, Constitution of Arizona, is proposed to be amended by adding section 38 as follows if approved by the voters and on proclamation of the Governor:

38.  Hunting, fishing and harvesting wildlife

Section 38.  A.  The citizens of this state have a right to hunt, fish and harvest wildlife lawfully.  Wildlife belongs to this state and is held in trust for the benefit of the citizens of this state.

B.  Exclusive authority to enact laws to regulate the manner, methods or seasons for hunting, fishing and harvesting wildlife is vested in the legislature, which may delegate rulemaking authority to a game and fish commission.  No law may be enacted and no rule may be adopted that unreasonably restricts hunting, fishing and harvesting wildlife or the use of traditional means and methods.  Laws and rules authorized under this section shall have the purpose of wildlife conservation and management and preserving the future of hunting and fishing.

C.  Lawful public hunting and fishing shall be a preferred means of managing and controlling wildlife.

D.  This section may not be construed to modify any provision of common law or statutes relating to trespass or property rights.

2.  The Secretary of State shall submit this proposition to the voters at the next general election as provided by article XXI, Constitution of Arizona.