Governor Jeb Bush Signs NRA-backed <br> Pro-hunting Bills into Law in Florida

Fairfax, VA – Governor Jeb Bush signed six pro-gun and pro-hunting bills in a signing ceremony yesterday, a record number signed in a single session. Accompanied by past National Rifle Association (NRA) president, Marion P. Hammer, Gov. Bush signed the “Hunter Voter” bill (HB 125) and “No-Net-Loss of Hunting Lands” bill (HB 265).  NRA, the largest pro-hunting organization in the world, supported both measures.

Chris W. Cox, NRA chief lobbyist, stated, “Once again, Governor Bush proves his long-standing support of the Second Amendment and our hunting heritage in America.  He understands the importance of continuing our freedom and our traditions, and we sincerely thank him for his support.”

Sponsored by Rep. Greg Evers and Senator Carey Baker, the “Hunter Voter” bill requires all businesses that sell hunting and fishing licenses to offer voter registration applications.  The bill passed the House 110-6 and passed the Senate 31-8 earlier this year.

“No-Net-Loss of Hunting Lands,” sponsored by Rep. Don Brown and Senator Nancy Argenziano, passed the House with a vote of 118-0 and passed the Senate with a vote of 40-0.  The new law requires the state to open the same amount of new land for public hunting when a specific amount of hunting land is closed.

Cox continued, “On behalf of the NRA, I want to thank Marion Hammer for her hard work and commitment to protect law-abiding gun owners’ rights in Florida.  Her perseverance is unparalleled.  I’d also like to thank Senate President Tom Lee and House Speaker Allan Bense for their help to pass these bills.”

These pro-hunting bills are two of the six NRA-backed bills signed by Gov. Bush.  They include:

• HB 285 -- prohibits the confiscation of lawfully owned firearms during emergencies. 
• HB 687 -- protects the privacy of Right-to-Carry permit holders from public record. 
• HB 1029 -- restores the right to possess a firearm while in national forests and state parks. 
• HB 1290 -- extends time for active duty military men and women to renew their Right-to-Carry permit while serving away from home. 

 --nra--