ME LD1322

Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife must establish a 2-year pilot program for calendar years 2026 and 2027 to increase youth participation in hunting, developed in collaboration with the Office of Tourism

Creates expanded youth hunting seasons including: youth spring wild turkey hunting scheduled during long weekends or as a 2-day Friday-Saturday season; a new 2-day youth bear hunting season in late summer or early fall; and a youth hunting-with-dogs day before the regular season

Requires a public relations and social media campaign promoting youth hunting opportunities, plus partnerships with community organizations, schools, and outdoor retailers for educational events

Department must submit reports to the Legislature by January 6, 2027 and January 5, 2028 covering participation data, stakeholder feedback, program impact, and recommendations for continuation or modification

Approved by Governor on May 30, 2025 as Resolves Chapter 44