Gov. Gianforte on Oregon Measure to Ban Hunting and Fishing: “That’s Absolutely Crazy”
Moosetrack Megan·June 24, 2026
Governor Greg Gianforte today brought attention to an Oregon ballot initiative gaining traction in the state that would criminalize licensed hunting and fishing. In a video released today, the governor had a simple response to the proposal: “That’s absolutely crazy.”
“Did you hear what they are trying to do in Oregon? They are literally trying to outlaw hunting and fishing – that’s absolutely crazy,” Gov. Gianforte said. “Here in Montana, hunting and fishing is integral to our way of life. To all those Oregonians who want to outlaw hunting and fishing, please stay out of Montana.”
Gov. Gianforte pheasant hunting at the Isaac Homestead WMA in Hysham in October 2024
The proposal, titled Oregon Initiative Petition 28 (IP28), is led by Portland-based animal rights activists. To qualify for the ballot, IP28 must acquire 117,000 signatures and to date nearly 130,000 signatures have been submitted.
If passed, the initiative would eliminate fishing and hunting licenses and criminalize hunters, fishers, anglers, trappers, farmers, and ranchers as it aims to eliminate exemptions from these activities from animal cruelty laws. According to the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, hunting and fishing generate $1.9 billion in annual economic activity.
As an avid outdoorsman, protecting the Montana way of life and preserving the firearms, hunting, fishing, recreation, and agricultural heritage in the Treasure State is a top priority for the governor. Since taking office, Gov. Gianforte has expanded public access to more than 245,000 acres of land for recreation, creating new opportunities for hunters, anglers, and outdoor enthusiasts across the state.
To support and encourage youth and apprentice hunters, the governor, in 2022, launched the Youth Hunting Story Contest, encouraging Montanans ages 10 to 17 to share stories about harvesting any legal game animal, furbearer, or bird in Montana for a chance to win prizes provided by sponsors.
