Thomas, Deeter introduce Senior Sportsmen Fairness Act

COLUMBUS - State Representatives David Thomas (R-Jefferson) and Kellie Deeter (R-Norwalk) introduced legislation Wednesday to correct what appears to be an oversight in discounts given to seniors for their hunting, fishing, fur trapping, and other sportsmen licenses. Their Seniors Sportsmen Fairness Act would reduce the age of senior discounted licenses for outdoor recreation in Ohio from 66 to 65.

“I was happy to joint sponsor a bill with Rep. David Thomas to lower the age that Ohio gives seniors a discounted hunting and fishing license,” said Deeter. “Most other licenses are age 65. It’s just something small we could do to help keep our seniors active.”

The idea came to Representative Thomas on his first day in office when a constituent messaged him to say he had turned 65 and was excited to get a discount license but then was disappointed upon hearing the age was 66. 

“We did research and of the nine age discount programs in Ohio Revised Code, this was the only one above 65,” said Thomas. “It just made sense and we’re honored with nearly 30 cosponsors.” 

The discount for fishing licenses lowers the traditional $25 resident license to $10 for seniors and hunting discount lowers the regular adult cost from $19 to $10. 

“This is not an earthshattering bill by any stretch, but it means something to those who still would like to be active and part of conservation efforts and it does not break the bank either,” said Thomas.

Ohio does not grant free licenses due to the ability to pull down federal conservation dollars for every license sold at a certain cost according to Thomas.

The bill has not yet been assigned a committee, however Reps. Deeter and Thomas believe quick action can be made soon on this legislation.