Why It Matters: Veteran’s Day celebrates and acknowledges our active duty, retired, and separated Veterans for their service to our great country. As an Active-Duty Veteran, the outdoors does play an important role in my life, and the lives of many of my fellow Veterans. One way our state legislatures and agencies show their appreciation for our Veterans service and sacrifice is through special hunting and fishing opportunities and discounted fees as a means of maintaining hunter numbers, as well as to reward them for their service to the country and commitment to conservation. While noble in their efforts, states should be cautioned to work with their respective state fish and wildlife agency when considering such legislation, as license revenue is a key component of the agencies’ yearly operating budget.
Highlights
- 34 states offer discounted hunting or fishing licenses fees to active-duty military and/or veteran residents, while 23 states offer free licenses to at least one of these populations.
- When a state offers a free license, it affects their eligibility to receive matching funds through the American System of Conservation Funding. In order to report a hunter/angler as a certified license holder, the state must receive a net revenue of at least $2.00 for said license.
Those of us who have served and earned the title of “Armed Services Veteran” carry such distinction with humble and quiet pride. Most of us are uncomfortable with public acknowledgements, special “deals”, or when someone says, “Thank you for your service.” It does not come from a lack of appreciation, rather, we were just doing our jobs. We do not raise our hands and swear an oath for free Bloomin’ onions or preferred parking spaces (all which are very thoughtful). No, we stepped up for a higher calling and an opportunity to give back. Acknowledging these private insecurities, free and discounted hunting and fishing licenses are a wonderful gesture that Veterans can quietly enjoy and facilitate their connection to the outdoors that offers reprieve, therapeutic benefits, and much more. I think the “mission first” mindset of my fellow brothers and sisters in arms would be understanding that such licenses that take away from supporting the mission delivery of our state agencies to conservation and our outdoor pursuits is problematic and would advocate for a solution.
In New Hampshire, Honorably discharged veterans who are residents of New Hampshire and who are permanently and totally disabled from service-connected disability may be issued a free perpetual Fish and Game License. (See RSA 214:13).
Non-Residents: Currently, only Maine and Vermont residents may apply for a New Hampshire Disabled Veterans License. Although ME and VT may have different criteria for this type of license, nonresident applicants must meet NH’s requirements (100% permanent rating). While there is not currently a reimbursement model in place for New Hampshire Fish and Game, Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation (CSF) continues to work with our New Hampshire Legislative Sportsmen’s Caucus to find solutions that benefit of Veterans and the state agency.
It is in the best interest and spirit of the sporting community to ensure that the use of our nation’s natural resources comes at a reduced cost to our veterans, and active-duty military personnel. The sportsmen’s community has a long tradition of finding ways to honor those who have served our nation through the great outdoors. Legislators are encouraged to explore their state’s regulations and support legislation that makes participation in sporting activities more accessible. However, license revenue is a key component of fish and wildlife management agencies’ budgets, so any changes should be vetted by these agencies. State Legislative Sportsmen’s Caucus leaders should encourage collaboration between these entities in order to find solutions that are mutually beneficial for all members of the sportsmen’s community.
Happy Veteran’s Day to all who have served and are still wearing the uniform!
