Vote yes on Amendment 2, protect fishing, hunting

Politics and business: two things often said to be separate but are deeply connected in every facet of the business world. From decisions about what kind of business to open, to navigating federal, state and local regulations and tax policies, business owners need to be actively engaged in politics and policy. This November, we have a direct opportunity to influence the future of Florida's economy by voting Yes on Amendment 2. 

Amendment 2, the Right to Fish and Hunt, is one of six constitutional amendments on this year’s November ballot. A "yes" vote would establish the constitutional right to fish and hunt in the state, protecting two industries that generate billions in economic impact annually. 

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Why should business owners and voters care about protecting this right? Simple: the economic stakes are enormous. Amendment 2 ensures the continued survival of industries that contribute significantly to Florida’s economy. Last year alone, at least a dozen states considered bans or restrictions on hunting, fishing, and even farming. If such measures were to succeed in Florida, hundreds of thousands of jobs and billions of dollars in revenue could be at risk. 

While Florida continues to diversify its economy, the state has historically relied on tourism as a key driver of growth. And it's not just theme parks or beach vacations — hunting and fishing are integral to Florida’s appeal. 

Through sustainable activities like hunting and fishing, Florida can manage its natural resources in a way that is both economically and environmentally beneficial. The financial support sportsmen provide to conservation programs is unmatched — which directly benefits the state by providing funding for natural resource management, conservation, clean water and more. 

Consider this: Florida is globally recognized as the "Fishing Capital of the World." In 2021, recreational fishing generated an economic output of $13.9 billion and supported more than 120,000 jobs in Florida. Meanwhile, hunting contributed an estimated $2.6 billion to the state's economy in 2022, supporting over 26,000 jobs. 

But the impact doesn't stop at bait shops and outdoor retailers. Every hunter or angler traveling to Florida also spends money on hotels, restaurants and other local businesses, supporting the broader hospitality and tourism sectors. In total, hunting and fishing activities support more than $150 billion annually of Florida’s economy, representing roughly 20-25% of the state’s total GDP. 

Supporting Amendment 2 means safeguarding one of the pillars of Florida's workforce. Hunters and anglers are not only consumers; they are key contributors to Florida’s tax base and GDP. By voting Yes on Amendment 2, you’re not just voting to protect a way of life; you're ensuring that Florida's economy remains robust, its natural resources are managed sustainably and thousands of businesses — from guides to restaurants — continue to thrive. 

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–Alyssa Gay

Gay is an entrepreneur who was born and raised in Manatee County. She ran in the Republican primary for State House district 72 in August.