New State Senate Bill Would Allow Youths With Serious Illnesses Hunting And Fishing Access
A new State Senate bill would provide fishing and hunting opportunities for California youths who are suffering from illnesses. Here are some details from the Orange County Register:
Sen. Steven Choi, R-Irvine, last week introduced legislation that would task California’s Fish and Game Commission with establishing a program to help these youth access more opportunities to fish and hunt big game or upland or migratory game birds. Examples of upland game birds are pheasant, quail and wild turkey; migratory game birds include band-tailed pigeons and mourning doves.
“For some young people facing serious illness, time is not a luxury they have,” said Choi, calling Senate Bill 1021 a measure “about compassion and responsible stewardship.”
“This bill creates a narrowly tailored and carefully supervised opportunity for them to experience the outdoors while fully respecting California’s conservation framework,” he said.
The Orange County state Senator Choi posted the following on his website:
Senator Steven Choi Introduces SB 1021 to Expand Hunting and Fishing Opportunities for Youth Facing Life-Threatening Illnesses
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — California State Senator Steven Choi, Ph.D. (R-Irvine), has introduced Senate Bill 1021, bi-partisan legislation to create new, carefully regulated hunting and fishing opportunities for youth under 17 who are battling life-threatening illnesses, as well as youth who have lost a parent in service to the state or country.
SB 1021 directs the California Fish and Game Commission to establish a science-based program that increases access to fishing and hunting opportunities while preserving California’s wildlife conservation standards. The program would be developed in consultation with the Department of Fish and Wildlife, ensuring strong oversight and ethical participation.
“SB 1021 is about compassion and responsible stewardship,” said Senator Steven Choi. “For some young people facing serious illness, time is not a luxury they have. This bill creates a narrowly tailored and carefully supervised opportunity for them to experience the outdoors while fully respecting California’s conservation framework.”
The bill is sponsored by Field of Dreams, a California-based nonprofit organization that provides guided outdoor experiences for special needs youth, children facing serious medical challenges, and veterans and military families. SB 1021 also boasts a growing list of over 35 supporting organizations.
“For more than two decades, Field of Dreams has seen the powerful, healing impact that time in nature can have on children and families during their most difficult moments,” said Tom Dermody, founder of Field of Dreams. “We are sponsoring SB 1021 because it recognizes that some kids cannot wait years for an opportunity that may never come. This bill gives them hope, dignity, and a chance to create meaningful memories, all while respecting wildlife and conservation.”
Under SB 1021, any program established by the Fish and Game Commission would rely on existing wildlife management tools, science-based regulations, and supervised participation by qualified instructors and guides. The measure is expected to have minimal fiscal impact and would not weaken existing conservation protections.
To learn more about Field of Dreams and its mission, visit www.fieldofdreamsinc.org.
