AUGUSTA, Maine — Thanks to a new law, hunters will be able to donate their Maine moose permit to a wounded service member or veteran.
LD 708's enactment allows moose lottery applicants to indicate whether or not they intend to donate their permit to a veteran, should they be selected.
The bill, sponsored by Senate President Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, was signed into law Wednesday by Gov. Janet Mills. The president's office said a constituent of Sen. Jackson's voiced interest in a program of this type.
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"An Act To Expand Maine's Moose Lottery To Benefit Wounded Service Members and Veterans" aims to increase veteran participation in moose hunting, and defines those eligible as "[any] person who incurred a physical or mental injury, illness or wound while serving in the Armed Forces of the United States and who is otherwise eligible to receive a moose hunting permit."
Applicants can identify a specific veteran for the moose hunting permit to go to or allow the commissioner to randomly draw the name of a wounded service member or veteran from the list already maintained by the commissioner.
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"This bill is about a simple act of gratitude," Jackson said. "It’s about giving Maine veterans a chance to stop and enjoy Maine’s great outdoors with their loved ones."
It will officially take effect 90 days after the Legislature adjourns sine die.