State Rep. Bob Rita has a new solution in Illinois law for anyone interested in fishing across the state but not so sure about paying the license fee.
Rita, D-Blue Island, this year led the push for House Bill 2317. The bill significantly reduces the license fee for sport fishing or spearing for anyone 26 years old and older wanting to fish here. The bill passed the Illinois House and Senate earlier this spring and was recently signed into law.
Rita worked with the Illinois Environmental Council and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources on the legislation, and it was modeled after a successful program in Wisconsin to encourage more fishing license sales.
“Outdoor recreation is a key component in protecting our natural resources. We hope that this legislation will encourage a new generation of anglers to pick up a fishing pole for the first time and discover the beautiful spaces Illinois has to offer,” said Eliot Clay, State Programs Director for the Illinois Environmental Council.
Read the full article here.