Florida Election Results: Right to Fish and Hunt 2024

What is Amendment 11?

In November 2022, many voters in Florida had the opportunity to participate in Amendment 11 on the ballot. Amendment 11 was a proposed amendment to the Florida Constitution that aimed to guarantee the right to hunt and fish for recreational purposes.

If passed, the amendment would have added language to the state constitution stating that "the right of the people to hunt, fish, and harvest wildlife shall be forever recognized and preserved," and that " such rights shall not be infringed."

Why Was Amendment 11 on the Ballot?

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) proposed Amendment 11 in response to concerns that the right to hunt and fish could be threatened in the future. The FWC argued that the amendment was necessary to protect these activities from potential legal challenges or changes in public opinion.

Arguments For and Against Amendment 11

Supporters of Amendment 11 argued that it was necessary to protect the rights of hunters and fishers in Florida. They argued that hunting and fishing are important traditions in the state and that they contribute to the economy and the environment.

Opponents of Amendment 11 argued that it was unnecessary and that it could lead to environmental damage. They argued that the right to hunt and fish is already protected by the Florida Constitution and that the amendment could open the door to increased hunting and fishing, which could harm wildlife populations.

Results of Amendment 11

In the end, Amendment 11 was narrowly defeated by a margin of 56% to 44%. This means that the right to hunt and fish in Florida will not be explicitly protected in the state constitution.

Conclusion

The defeat of Amendment 11 is a setback for hunting and fishing advocates in Florida. However, it is important to note that the right to hunt and fish is still protected by the Florida Constitution and by federal law.

Hunters and fishers in Florida should continue to be vigilant in protecting their rights and in ensuring that these important activities are available for future generations.