SB402 was passed May 23rd which reduces the NC Wildlife Commission budget by 49 percent. The operations budget would be reduced from 18 million to 9 million. This will be a devasting action especially since it was already reduced from 21 million the previous year. The Senate is looking at the Wildlife Endowment Fund to supply the difference. Currently the Commission by law pulls its operation budget off of the interest earned leaving the principle to grow. Operating off the principle as desired by the Senate will affect all future funding setting the Commission programs back to a bare bones operation. The Executive Director has already put a hold on 120 projects. This will impact everything from Gamelands upkeep, Food plot plantings, Waterfowl Impoundment planting and upkeep, fresh water fish stocking, boat ramp building and maintenance, Law Enforcement operations, Education operations and much more. This is absolutely the most devastating action to be taken in the NC Wildlife Commissions 65 year history. If you want to continue enjoying the outdoors here in North Carolina contact your House Members to vote against the Senate Budget proposal.