LAWTON, Okla. — Oklahoma Senator Dusty Deevers has introduced a new bill aimed at eliminating the need for permits to hunt feral hogs, a move he believes will help Oklahomans better protect themselves from the damage these invasive animals cause each year.
The proposed “Free to Hunt Feral Hogs” bill seeks to remove the bureaucratic obstacles that currently require hunters to navigate a complex permit process before they can take action against the destructive creatures. Deevers, who represents Oklahoma’s residents in the state legislature, argues that the current system is burdensome and prevents individuals from swiftly addressing the growing feral hog population.
“People should not have to deal with permit processes and government red tape just to protect what is rightfully theirs,” Deevers said in a statement. “Removing these unnecessary barriers will allow Oklahomans to defend their land and property without unnecessary delays.”
Feral hogs are known for causing significant damage to crops, farmland, and infrastructure, with experts estimating that the animals inflict millions of dollars in damage across the state each year. Their rapid reproduction rate and ability to thrive in diverse environments have made them a persistent problem in Oklahoma and other parts of the country.
The proposed bill has garnered support from local farmers, ranchers, and landowners who have struggled to control the feral hog population and protect their property from further destruction. However, some wildlife advocates have expressed concerns that removing the permit requirement could lead to unintended consequences, including overhunting and disruption of local ecosystems.
Deevers is hopeful that the bill will pass and that it will ultimately help mitigate the long-standing issue of feral hog damage in Oklahoma, making it easier for residents to take action and safeguard their land without government interference. The bill is set to be discussed in the coming legislative session.
