Hunting, Fishing Could Face Ban Under Controversial Petition In Blue State

A petition that would ban most hunting, fishing, and animal research in Oregon has...

A petition that would ban most hunting, fishing, and animal research in Oregon has nearly enough signatures to qualify for a ballot measure.

The petition, organized by animal rights advocates, would change how animals are treated under state law.

The group that started the petition is called the People for the Elimination of Animal Cruelty Exemptions, or PEACE, KATU noted.

The initiative “criminalizes injuring or killing animals, including killing for food, hunting, fishing; criminalizes breeding practices.”https://t.co/hCLvSrsHXu

— KATU News (@KATUNews) February 17, 2026

KPTV shared further:

If it makes it on the ballot and is approved by voters in November, the protections that currently apply to pets such as dogs and cats would extend to wild animals, livestock and animals used in research. Supporters call the proposal the PEACE Act, short for People for the Elimination of Animal Cruelty Exemptions. Supporters say the measure is intended to protect animals from abuse, neglect, and killing.

Opponents, including the Oregon Hunters Association, say it would force Oregonians onto a vegan diet or force people have their meat products shipped in from other states. They say it would destroy entire industries, including agriculture, fishing, hunting, scientific research, food production, pest control and restaurants.

Amy Patrick with the Oregon Hunters Association said a passage of this proposal would effect everyone in Oregon.

I’m hopeful that Oregonians, will not vote ‘yes’ on this. I’m hopeful that whether you’re in an urban region or a rural region, you understand what makes Oregon great. And part of that is our wildlife. And part of that is our economy that comes from our farming and ranching. And that folks will really, really delve into what this [proposal] does and how this is going to affect us not just in the abstract. So if you’re not a hunter or you’re not a rancher or a farmer, don’t think that this is not going to affect you in your day to day life.

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