Maryland: Governor Hogan Signs Apprentice Hunting Legislation into Law

Today, Maryland Governor Larry Hogan signed House Bill 1427 into law.  Sponsored by Delegate Herb McMillan, HB 1427 creates an “apprentice hunting license” that will allow a new hunter to hunt under the supervision of a licensed hunter for up to three consecutive days.  The apprentice hunter will be required to watch a short online safety video before obtaining the license.  Lengthy hunter education requirements often discourage potential hunters from going afield because they are unwilling to dedicate the necessary time to complete the course in order to pursue an activity that they are simply trying out.  Eventually, the goal is for these apprentices to complete a hunter education course so they can hunt on their own, which has largely been the case in the states with similar programs.

Thank you to NRA members and Second Amendment supporters who contacted their legislators throughout session.  Your action made all the difference.  Also, thank you to those legislators who supported the Second Amendment rights of Maryland residents. Further thanks to the Maryland State Rifle and Pistol Association and the National Shooting Sports Foundation.  Special thanks to Governor Hogan for signing HB 1427 into law.