Amendment 83: Constitutional Right to Hunt and Fish

What does Amendment 83 do?

Amendment 83 establishes a right in the Colorado Constitution to fish and hunt certain wildlife, and establishes hunting and fishing as the preferred means of managing fish and wildlife populations. The right applies to traditional hunting and fishing methods. It does not apply to species that are not typically hunted or fished (nongame species), endangered species, or any species that is illegal to hunt under federal law. This measure does not change existing laws related to trespassing on private property. It allows the state to regulate hunting, fishing, and wildlife management if necessary for sound scientific reasons, public safety, or to preserve future hunting and fishing opportunities.

How does Colorado currently manage and regulate fish and wildlife?

Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) is the state agency responsible for fish and wildlife management in Colorado and administers regulations for hunting and fishing, as adopted by the CPW Commission, a citizen board appointed by the Governor. State law requires wildlife and their environment to be protected, preserved, enhanced, and managed for the use, benefit, and enjoyment of the people and visitors of Colorado.

Current regulations on hunting and fishing include:

where and when hunting and fishing can occur;

license and permit requirements;

methods and materials for hunters and anglers;

limits on how many animals can be hunted, fished, or trapped.

Regulations are generally guided by information on wildlife and fish populations, species and habitat management plans, and recreational opportunities and needs.

How does this measure affect existing and future hunting and fishing regulations?

The measure results in no immediate change to existing state law or regulations. Hunting and fishing will continue to be allowed under existing state and federal law and regulations. Creating a new constitutional right to hunt and fish may affect how the legislature or CPW Commission makes policies about hunting and fishing, and it could lead to changes depending on how courts interpret the language of the measure when reviewing existing or future policies.