Governor Jindal Signs Legislation to Protect Hunting Game Donations and Combat Hunger Across Louisiana

Press Release

Today, Governor Bobby Jindal signed legislation that encourages and protects charitable giving of hunting game at a bill signing ceremony with representatives from the Shreveport-Bossier Rescue Mission and Hunters for the Hungry.

SB 58--authored by Senator Sherri Buffington--allows certain meats and fish to be received or used by not-for-profit entities and charitable organizations. The legislation was passed and signed into law after 1,600 pounds of deer meat donated to the Shreveport-Bossier Rescue Mission by Hunters for the Hungry was prevented from being used.

SB 84--authored by Senator Neil Riser--will allow hunters and anglers to make a donation to Hunters for the Hungry to help offset meat processing costs via a check-off box on applications for hunting and fishing licenses.

Governor Jindal said, "Today is a great day for the Shreveport-Bossier Rescue Mission and our entire state because we have a chance to celebrate two things that we do very well in Louisiana -- help our neighbors and hunt in Sportsman's Paradise. Groups who fight hunger like Hunters for the Hungry exist across our state, and we need to make sure that our laws allow folks to continue their charitable work. By updating state law and allowing shelters to serve meats and fishes that are given to them by caring groups and citizens, we can ensure that we continue taking care of our own while also taking advantage of our vast resources as the Sportsman's Paradise.

"If law-abiding hunters want to help the hungry, they should be able to do so free of bureaucratic obstacles. Through this law, we can ensure that we continue taking care of our people and putting the blessing of Louisiana's great outdoors to good use. Indeed, Louisiana is no stranger to crises, and when those crises hit, our people act and we help our neighbors in need. Unfortunately, there are many Louisianians in need who may not know where their next meal is coming from. The Shreveport-Bossier Rescue Mission and many other organizations exist to help our fellow Louisianians find a meal. Those of us who are more fortunate can help provide meals by doing what we love, and hunting in Sportsman's Paradise."

Senator Sherri Buffington said, "Our hunting heritage runs deep in Louisiana and this bill ensures wild game donated by generous hunters and fishermen will reach those who need it most. We serve our own families this same healthy protein and are blessed to share it with others. I urge everyone to share a successful season by donating to help feed families in need."

Senator Neil Riser said, "This bill will go a long way in combating hunger throughout our state. Now our hunters and fisherman can donate game for those that truly need it, and we are grateful to them for their generous contributions."

About the Shreveport-Bossier Rescue Mission

The Shreveport-Bossier Rescue Mission exists to pursue the passion of Jesus Christ to lift up the hungry, homeless, abused, and addicted.

About Hunters for the Hungry

Hunters for the Hungry became a part of the Food Bank's Lagniappe du Coeur (Extra From the Heart) program, Louisiana's first prepared and perishable food rescue program. The Food Bank provides a place to store the game and fish, and they distribute the bounty to the needy. The Hunters for the Hungry Louisiana Program has collected more than 150,000 pounds of game and fish since its inception in the 1990's.

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