Hunting permits for developmentally disabled passed

A developmentally disabled person can purchase a hunting permit under a bill passed by the Legislature March 27.

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

People applying for an exemption certificate will be required to provide a written note from their physician, indicating that the person is at all times capable of understanding and following directions given by another person and that he or she is not currently a danger to himself, herself or others.

The bill also consolidates current hunter education programs to form one program covering all hunting implements including firearms, crossbows, bows and arrows and air guns. Those applying for bow hunter permits will be required to take additional bow hunter education programming.

Senators passed the bill on a 43-0 vote.