This November, New Jersey residents heading to the polls may have the opportunity to vote on ACR16, which would preserve New Jersey’s right to fish, hunt, trap and harvest fish and wildlife. The bill sponsored by Assemblywoman Dawn Fantasia and Assemblyman Mike Inganamort was introduced in January of this year and is currently pending technical review by legislative counsel. As of April 2026, 24 states constitutionally protect the right to hunt and fish, with most adopting these amendments since 1996. Florida became the most recent state to add this protection in 2024

In 2025 194,130 resident and non-resident anglers spent $2.6 billion while fishing in New Jersey, generating a $3.3 billion total multiplier effect, supporting 20,550 jobs, and producing $246 million in state and local taxes. The Pittman-Robertson Act is a national law which imposes an 11% excise tax on firearms, ammunition, and archery equipment. It is used to fund state wildlife conservation, habitat restoration, and hunter education programs. For 2026 New Jersey was allocated $8,289,959 from federal funding. The State will match 25% for an additional $2,072,489 which comes from the sale of hunting and fishing licenses. All aspects of outdoor recreation benefit from this revenue generated by hunters and anglers.

            Fishing, hunting, trapping, and the harvesting of fish and wildlife are a valued part of New Jersey’s heritage and economy. With development always on the rise and access to public lands threatened, this proposed amendment would forever preserve this heritage and opportunity for NJ residents. The New Jersey Chapter of Backcountry Hunters and Anglers views ACR16 not only as a means to protect our sporting traditions but also serves to solidify conservational practices into state law.

The NJBHA asks that you contact your state assembly members and urge them to support ACR16. When it reaches the general election in November be sure to vote in favor of ACR16 to forever guarantee our opportunities to hunt, fish and trap in New Jersey.

Any questions besure to reach out the the NJ Chapter at newjersey@backcountryhunters.org