Now THAT is a sensible law.
Yep, the law was passed a few years ago in response to the increase in leasing that is going on in our state and the reduction in numbers of people who utilize outdoor resources. Since lack of access was indicated as the number one reason why hunting and fishing recruitment was/is declining, it is an attempt by the legislature to keep private lands accessible to folks who can't afford to lease. The idea is to make it easier for land owners to say yes to folks who ask to use property for outdoor pursuits without the fear of frivolous lawsuits. It saves on them having to purchase liability insurance also. The flip side is that those who do receive compensation for access, need to have all of their ducks in a row as far as insurance goes and making sure that their property is "safe" for use.
The amazing thing is that their are a lot of land owners in the state who are not aware of this legislation. A lot of land owners mistakenly believe that leasing is the only way to protect themselves from lawsuits from poachers and trespassers who might get injured while on their property illegally. In reality, by leasing, they actually open themselves up to more potential law suits.
