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Hard‑fought CACR15 hearing: supporters cite funding and tradition; opponents warn of vague language and litigation risk
Summary
CACR15 would enshrine the right to hunt, fish and harvest game in the New Hampshire constitution and recognize hunting as a preferred tool for wildlife management. Supporters (sportsmen's groups, Fish and Game and many hunters) emphasized funding stability and conservation benefits; opponents (animal‑welfare groups, conservationists, and some residents) flagged vague wording, protections for trapping/hounding and the risk of costly litigation based on experiences in Maine.
Representative Donald MacFarlane opened the CACR15 public hearing by urging the committee to protect New Hampshire's user‑funded conservation model and the Fish and Game Department's authority. "About 98% of its funding comes from users, not taxpayers," MacFarlane said, arguing the amendment would preserve access to federal matching funds and the state’s wildlife‑management model.
Public testimony spanned several hours and reflected a deep split. Supporters included hunting and conservation organizations that stressed the North American model of wildlife conservation and the link between…
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