If you trail ride, fox hunt, or even walk the trails to get some exercise, you know that it's not safe in the woods when hunters are out, even when they are just across the property line from where you happen to be. The deer season runs from the first Sunday in October to the second Sunday in January and many of the farms where we have permission to ride also have given permission to hunters to help reduce the deer population.
Anne Arundel County's Senator Ed Reilly and Delegate Bob Costa have introduced a bill that would end the compromise reached many years ago between hunters and outdoor recreation interests. It would make our county an exception to the state law and allow Sunday hunting during deer season.
Maryland Horse Council and Anne Arundel Horse Council have proposed to Delegate Costa and Senator Reilly that they withdraw the bill and convene a group to propose alternative methods to effectively reduce the deer population in our county. Matching qualified hunters with landowners and extending the season are two proposals on the table.
It is time to let our delegates and senators know that this is a bill that affects their constituents.
We need you to make phone calls and send emails. They keep a tally of supporters and opponents of their bills. Let them know where you stand immediately.
Senator Ed Reilly (410) 841-3568 edward.reilly@senate.state.md.us
Delegate Bob Costa 410-841-3551 bob.costa@house.state.md.us
This web page has all of the county delegates listed with phone and email:
This web page has all of our county's state senators with phone and email:
The Anne Arundel County Delegation meets this Friday 1/24 to consider the bill and will vote on whether to support it next Friday 1/31. We requested an opportunity to speak at the county delegation meeting but have so far been denied. It is essential, however, that you contact the members of the county delegation at the two links above for delegates and senators, preferably today and tomorrow.
THE HEARINGS
If we fail to convince Delegate Costa and Senator Reilly to withdraw the bill we will need to show the strength of our numbers at the hearings. Put these on your calendar and keep checking this County Forum for updates.
Senate Hearing on SB 0191
January 28, 1:45pm
Education, Health and Environmental Affairs Committee
House Hearing on HB 0197
January 29, 2pm
Environmental Matters
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