SPRINGFIELD – Landowners and farmers could soon have more flexibility when it comes to hunting on their own property under legislation from State Senator Patrick Joyce.

“This legislation would clear up the red tape stopping hunters from getting the permits they deserve,” said Joyce (D-Essex). “If someone wishes to hunt on their own property, let’s get them the permits they need without the hassle and charge.”

House Bill 2340 would allow landowner deer, turkey and hunting permits to be issued without charge to Illinois landowners who own at least 20 acres in a county where there is positively identified chronic wasting disease cases in the deer herd, resident tenants of at least 20 acres of commercial agricultural land where they will hunt, or an owner, shareholder or partner of a business that owns at least 20 acres of land.

Joyce took on the legislation in response to farmers and landowners having difficulties securing permits to hunt on their own land. Residents of hunting land in the 40^th District and across Illinois have been calling for changes to landowner permits and the deer permit lottery.

“As a hunter, I know how frustrating it can be when we finally get to the season and you do not have the permits necessary to get out there,” said Joyce. “This would not only give hunters more freedom, it would also allow hunters to better manage diseased deer herds.”

House Bill 2340 passed the Senate with bipartisan support on Wednesday.