Ohio Falconry Bill

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Senate Bill 28

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Ohio faced numerous challenges. In the midst of this, on May 11, 2021, Gov. Mike DeWine signed Senate Bill 28 into law, granting a small group of 110 specially licensed falconers the right to use owls for hunting small game. This legislation, aligning Ohio with 45 other states where the practice was already legal, aims to provide these falconers with greater recreational opportunities. Mick Brown of the Ohio Falconry Association expressed support for the bill, noting its importance in keeping Ohio competitive with other states in the realm of falconry. "Just being able to do it is a nice thing, you know?" he said in an interview.

The Ohio legislature faced significant criticism for passing the bill during the height of the COVID-19 crisis. State Representative Richard Brown and other critics described the legislation as irrelevant and unimportant compared to Ohio's major issues, such as high infant mortality rates and the impacts of the pandemic. This controversy sparked a heated debate, with many people feeling the legislators should have focused on relief measures, health policies, or economic recovery instead of falconry.

Public Reaction and Legislative Focus

Ohio residents shared different opinions on social platforms, such as X. Some liked the expansion of falconry rights. They saw it as a nod to tradition and personal freedoms. Others believed it was a luxury during a crisis. The debate showed a bigger discussion on how legislatures choose what to focus on. It also highlighted the power of public opinion in shaping legislative priorities. Public health and economic stability were major concerns.

Conclusion

Senate Bill 28 serves as a stark example of how governments set their priorities. Ohio residents are increasingly vocal about the need for lawmakers to concentrate more on addressing urgent public needs. Many argue that efforts should be directed towards tackling major issues, particularly during times of crisis. While the falconry bill may have its merits in normal circumstances, its timing has led many to question whether lawmakers should have focused on the pressing challenges of the health crisis instead.