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Veterans Get Free Hunting and Fishing

Full Title:
Fisheries and Coastal Resources Act (amended) and Wildlife Act (amended)

Summary#

This bill lets Canadian Armed Forces veterans fish and hunt for recreation in Nova Scotia without a provincial licence or licence fees. To qualify, a veteran must carry a valid Veteran’s Service Card (NDI 75) issued by the Department of National Defence.

  • Veterans with the NDI 75 card can hunt and fish recreationally without buying or holding a provincial licence.
  • No provincial licence fees are charged to eligible veterans.
  • Veterans must carry their NDI 75 card while hunting or fishing.
  • All other rules still apply, including seasons, catch or bag limits, size limits, and safety rules.
  • Tagging rules still apply (you must place required tags on certain fish or wildlife you harvest).
  • This does not cover commercial fishing and does not replace any required federal permits.

What it means for you#

  • Veterans (with an NDI 75 card)

    • You can hunt and fish recreationally in Nova Scotia without a provincial licence or licence fees.
    • Keep your Veteran’s Service Card (NDI 75) with you while hunting or fishing.
    • You must still follow seasons, catch and bag limits, size and gear rules, and area closures.
    • You must follow tagging rules for species that require tags.
    • This change does not cover commercial fishing.
    • Federal permits still apply where required (for example, migratory game bird permits), and all firearm and boating safety laws still apply.

  • Other residents

    • No change to your licences, fees, or rules.
    • Conservation rules and limits stay the same for everyone.

Expenses#

No publicly available information.

  • Likely effect: lower provincial revenue from hunting and recreational fishing licence fees.
  • Some minor training or outreach may be needed so officers and veterans know the new rules.

Proponents' View#

  • Recognizes veterans’ service by removing licence fees and paperwork.
  • Makes it easier and cheaper for veterans to enjoy outdoor recreation, which can support mental health and community connection.
  • Simple to administer: officers check a veteran’s NDI 75 card instead of a licence.
  • Conservation is protected because seasons, limits, and tagging rules still apply.

Opponents' View#

  • The province could lose licence-fee revenue that helps fund conservation and wildlife management.
  • May feel unfair to other residents who must buy licences and pay fees.
  • Could create confusion about which rules still apply (for example, federal permits or special tags).
  • Enforcement may get more complex, since officers must recognize and verify specific veteran ID cards.