MACo Policy Fellow Devin Neil yesterday testified to support HB 594 Prohibition on Sale of Wildlife – Local Venison Donation-Application before the House Environment and Transportation Committee. This bill authorizes counties to reimburse hunters for venison donations to county-supported foodbanks.

These programs provide a critical resource to foodbanks, many of which are experiencing food insecurity further exacerbated by the ongoing COVID-19 crisis. In addition to fighting hunger, these programs help sensibly control deer populations, mitigating the damaging effects they can have on crops.

HB 594 provides a flexible option for local governments to feed residents suffering from hunger while managing deer populations. Accordingly, MACo urges the Committee to give HB 594 a FAVORABLE report.

Follow MACo’s advocacy efforts during the 2021 legislative session on MACo’s Legislative Tracking Database.