Among the bills of interest to Texas sportsmen being filed this session are HJR 61, introduced by state Representative Trent Ashby (R-Lufkin), and SJR 22, sponsored by Senator Creighton. These bills seek to add an amendment to the state’s constitution that addresses the right to hunt, fish, and harvest wildlife, as well as future wildlife conservation and management decisions. 

Relevant language of the bill includes:

The people have the right to hunt, fish, and harvest wildlife, including by the use traditional methods, subject to laws or regulations to conserve and mange wildlife and preserve the future of hunting and fishing. Hunting and fishing are preferred methods of managing and controlling wildlife.

If the measure passes, the joint resolution would be presented to Texas voters in November of this year as a potential state constitutional amendment.