Bill would authorize hunting permits for developmentally disabled

A developmentally disabled person could purchase a hunting permit under a bill considered by the Natural Resources Committee Jan. 22.

Under LB699, introduced by O’Neill Sen. Tyson Larson, a license-purchase exemption certificate issued by the state Game and Parks Commission would allow a developmentally disabled person to purchase a hunting permit.

Larson said the bill would allow more people to experience the outdoors.

“There are people who want to participate [in hunting programs] but because of their disabilities, they are unable to pass the required certifications to successfully get a hunting permit,” he said. “This bill will allow these individuals to participate safely.”

Benjamin Greenfield, representing the Muscular Dystrophy Association, testified in support of the bill. As someone who deals with limb girdle muscular dystrophy every day, he said he understands how important LB699 would be to developmentally disabled persons.

“I’ve worked with these kids and they want nothing more than to feel and appear like any other normal kid,” Greenfield said. “This is just another step we can take to allow these kids these freedoms.”

Akacia Wentworth, a volunteer with Special Youth Challenge ministries, also supported the bill, saying that the benefits would extend far beyond the individual hunters.

“It’s not only special for those kids, but also very special for their families,” she said. “They know those kids don’t get to experience everything they want to from the beginning. This is an opportunity to make memories they will always remember.”

The bill also would consolidate current hunter education programs to form one program covering all hunting implements including firearms, crossbows, bow and arrows, and air guns.

Nebraska Firearms Owners Association president Rodney Moeller supported the expansion of hunting opportunities, but opposed the consolidation of hunter education programs.

“The quality of the existing hunter education program is very high, with many wonderful instructors,” he said. “But there is a concern this bill would damage the programs we currently have.”

The committee took no immediate action on the bill.