Blood is boiling over Gov. Baldacci’s proposal to allow hunting on Sunday.

The crowds at a public hearing last week resembled the assembly of a tent revival. Testimony on both sides reached deep down for emotional appeals, hoping to convince the Appropriations Committee, which is considering the legislation because it was submitted as part of the governor’s budget.

If he had his druthers, Baldacci would open up Sunday for hunting, except during the firearms part of deer season, which attracts the most hunters to the woods. According to George Smith, the executive director of the Sportman’s Alliance of Maine, the governor cut a deal with the group. In exchange for Sunday hunting, SAM and its members wouldn’t oppose a permanent increase in hunting and fishing fees.

Both the governor and SAM maintain that the prohibition on Sunday hunting hurts the state’s ability to attract out-of-staters, who can go elsewhere and hunt seven days a week. Tourism – and hunting particularly – are important contributors to the state’s economy.

Opponents argue, we believe correctly, that there should be one day a week reserved for non-hunters during the various game seasons. Other outdoor organizations also oppose the change because they are concerned it would prompt landowners to deny access to their property.

The issue is emotional, but there are also substantive arguments to be made on both sides. While we oppose Sunday hunting, it’s clear that this issue should not be buried deep within the governor’s budget.

The argument should be decided in stand-alone legislation, where legislators can vote based on their beliefs and those of their constituents. In the past, such legislation has failed to earn enough support for passage, which might explain why it’s included in the budget.

But opposition doesn’t justify tangling Sunday hunting up with the budget. There’s plenty in there to fight about without adding another lightning rod.

Pull the Sunday hunting provision out of the budget and let the votes fall where they may. There’s no need for backroom deals and horse trading. If the idea can’t stand up to scrutiny on its own, it shouldn’t pass.