Unless Mainers oppose the radical change supported by Gov. Baldacci, Sunday hunting for every species during the year, except the deer firearms season, will be allowed for the first time in the state’s history.

The governor’s proposal appears in his budget rather than as legislation because similar bills have always been defeated in the past. Including it in the budget means it is not subject to the rigorous procedures required in Maine for legislation to become law, though there will be public discussions before it is approved. The governor advocates Sunday hunting because it is allowed in a number of other states, and thinks we should do the same.

Though Sunday hunting is legal elsewhere, that doesn’t mean that Maine has to follow. Many people in Maine have only Sunday to enjoy time with their families. Often it is the one day of the week when people can relax, have breakfast together without rushing off, perhaps go to church, or safely take a quiet walk in the woods. It should not be just another day to hunt.

A hearing of the Appropriations Committee about Sunday hunting will also be held at 1 p.m., Feb. 3, in Room 228 of the State House in Augusta.

Don Loprieno, Bristol