Two House Resolutions were recently tabled in the New Mexico State Legislature that aimed to change the New Mexico State Constitution. Although these efforts appeared to change the language of the Constitution to protect the rights of hunters and anglers to hunt, fish, and harvest wildlife, the underlying intent was to elevate private property rights over the right to hunt, fish, and float. NM State Director Robert Levin and Norm Gaume played a pivotal role in organizing quick opposition to both Resolutions, HR 5 and HR 8, within the local paddling communities. The Resolutions were swiftly tabled after the hearings on Tuesday. Both Resolutions were attempts to preempt stream access rights litigation that is currently being considered by the New Mexico Supreme Court.
Links to both Resolutions appear below: