COLUMBUS, Ohio - Howland-based State Representative Nick Santucci, alongside State Representative Ron Ferguson have introduced legislation that would make hunting and fishing a constitutional right in Ohio.

Since 1996, 23 states have amended their constitutions to protect hunting, angling and trapping. If passed, the measure will go before Ohio voters in 2024.

According to a press release Ohioans purchased 479,000 hunting licenses last year. Hunting contributes $1.3 billion annually to Ohio's economy and supports 15,500 jobs.

"The outdoors brings people together. Enshrining the rights of sportsmen and women in our constitution will preserve these great traditions for future generations in Ohio," Santucci said.

The legislation has been referred to the House Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.