ANNAPOLIS, MD – Today, in a resounding bipartisan vote, the Maryland House of Delegates passed SB0367: Natural Resources – Antlerless Deer Hunting Programs – Authorization on its third reading. This commonsense bill allows counties that have hosted successful deer management programs in the past, like the Lower Shore’s Doe Harvest Challenge, to continue their impactful efforts. The bill now awaits Governor Wes Moore’s signature to become law.

Recognized as a top priority by the Maryland Farm Bureau (MDFB), this bill addresses the pressing concern of wildlife damage, a major issue confronting farming operations across the state. According to the United States Department of Agriculture, Maryland farmers suffer losses exceeding $10 million annually due to wildlife crop damage, with deer overpopulation accounting for over three-quarters of these losses. MDFB members played a pivotal role in advancing this legislation through grassroots advocacy efforts, including action alerts and digital advertisements, which resulted in over 50 MDFB members engaging in nearly 200 communications with their legislators.

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“We are beyond pleased that our legislators listened to the issues facing their farming constituents and passed this commonsense bill,” said MDFB President Jamie Raley. “A special thank goes out to the bill’s sponsors, Senator Johnny Mautz and Delegate Tom Hutchinson, as well as the MDFB members who used their voices to champion the swift passage of this bill.”

On February 13th of this year, Tyler Hough, MDFB’s Director of Government Relations, joined bill sponsor Senator Johnny Mautz in testifying in support of SB0367 during a Senate Education, Energy, and the Environment Committee hearing. Additionally, MDFB produced a digital advertisement featuring Bob Chase of Chase’s Produce, highlighting the detrimental impact of deer on agricultural crops. This week as a final push for passage, another digital ad was released featuring Anne Arundel County farmer Chris Catterton to further underscore the importance of passing this legislation.

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In recent years, deer management programs have faced scrutiny, with uncertainty surrounding their continuation. SB367/HB481 represents a crucial legislative remedy, ensuring the preservation of these impactful efforts at the county level. MDFB remains committed to advocating for sensible legislation that supports Maryland farmers and safeguards the viability of agriculture in our state.