Governor Mike DeWine Signs Ohio House Bill 64 - Senior Sportsmen Fairness Act

Governor Mike DeWine signed House Bill 64, also known as the Senior Sportsmen Fairness Act, into law on July 1st. Introduced by State Representatives David Thomas (R-Jefferson) and Kellie Deeter (R-Norwalk), the new legislation lowers the age that a senior can receive a discounted hunting and fishing license from 66 to 65. This will align with the other state discounts that seniors can receive at 65. 

 “While my focus has been and will continue to be on property tax relief for Ohioans, this was something that a constituent reached out to me on and I am pleased to get accomplished for him,” said Rep. Thomas. “This shows the importance of reaching out to your legislators when you see or experience something that doesn’t seem quite right. We may not be able to fix everything but the conversation is important so we can work towards a better Ohio.”

The legislation was passed by unanimous vote in the Ohio House and Senate and reflects bipartisan support for preserving Ohio’s outdoor traditions. Representative Thomas added, “I am grateful for the support received on both sides of the aisle and in both Chambers of the legislature for our bill.” HB¿64 will take effect after September 29th, 2025.

The bill is expected to save seniors roughly half a million dollars a year on their licenses as Ohio’s outdoorsmen can take advantage of the discounted hunting, fishing, and sportsmen licenses a year earlier in addition to the lifetime and bundled discounts. Information can be found on the Ohio Department of Natural Resources website. (Pictured is the signing ceremony with Legislative Aide to Rep. Thomas Levi Cole, Rep. David Thomas, Governor Mike DeWine, Rep. Kellie Deeter, and Legislative Aide to Rep. Deeter Brett Vike)