Captive Hunting Prohibition (Rhode Island)

The Animal Legal Defense Fund supports this bill.

Sponsors: Senators Matthew LaMountain (D-31), Alana DiMario (D-36), and Joshua Miller (D-28), and Reps. Scott Slater (D-10), Grace Diaz (D-11), David Bennett (D-20), and William O’Brien (D-54)

Introduction Date:
House Bill: January 26, 2024
Senate Bill: March 8, 2024

This legislation would define and prohibit captive hunting for virtually all animals throughout Rhode Island. It would not, however, prohibit the release of certain birds on certain facilities licensed by the Department of Environmental Management.

In a captive hunt, participants pay thousands of dollars to kill captive, confined animals on private lands. This activity is harmful to the environment and native wildlife.

“Elite” hunting clubs often seek to import animals for their members to hunt, such as elk — considered one of the biggest prizes in trophy hunting — and other non-native animals such as wild boars, or animals who are genetically altered to grow abnormally large antlers.

The importation of elk would put the local white-tailed deer population — and possibly certain local farmed animals — in jeopardy from the often-fatal chronic wasting disease that could easily transfer. Wild boars are notoriously destructive to the environment and farmlands, and they pose a serious risk to people and companion animals.

Captive hunting, also known as “canned hunting,” has been banned or restricted in 20 U.S. states.

Why is this legislation important?

This legislation will protect animals from pay-to-play hunting practices and protect Rhode Island’s native wildlife and environment.

For more information about animal protection legislation in Rhode Island and opportunities to take action for animals, visit aldf.org/rhodeisland.