Senate passes bill to allow farm owners easier hunting access on own property

FRANKFORT, Ky. (KT) - The Kentucky Senate passed its first bill of the 2024 legislative session Tuesday afternoon, one that would make it easier for farm owners and their families to be able to hunt and fish on their property.

Senate Bill 5, sponsored by Sen. Gex Williams, R-Verona, eliminates the five-acre ownership requirement for residential landowners seeking exemptions from having to buy hunting and fishing license to use on their own property. Sen. Robin Webb, D-Grayson, spoke in favor of the bill.

The measure passed the Senate unanimously (35-0) with bipartisan support and now advances to the House for consideration.

Williams expressed his pleasure with the vote. "I am pleased that all of my colleagues in the Senate recognize the importance of this issue as SB 5 progresses at this early stage of the session," he said. "Instead of aiming for sweeping changes, this bill rectifies legal misunderstandings to enhance the clarity and fairness of our hunting and fishing regulations. I eagerly anticipate ongoing discussions and progress on this issue as it proceeds to the House of Representatives."

The only change made in committee was to add an emergency clause, meaning it would take effect as soon as it is signed by the governor, or if he vetoes it, both chambers vote to override the veto.