Right-to-hunt amendment passes Senate

BOISE (AP) — A constitutional amendment affirming Idaho citizens' right to hunt, fish and trap has hit the mark in the Senate.

Senate lawmakers voted 30-3 Tuesday to approve the measure, which would put to a popular vote in November whether the state should preserve those pastimes in Idaho's founding document.

Caldwell Sen. Jim Rice is among lawmakers who believe Idaho's hunting rights should never be threatened by the whims of the government.

Proponents say inscribing those rights in the constitution also protects against potential action by animal-rights groups to curtail the pastime.

The resolution returns to the House with changes, which address concerns that the plan would hinder the Department of Fish and Game's ability to manage wildlife.

It needs majority support from voters in November to be added to the constitution.