Lithuania proposes restricting hunting and fishing rights for those evading compensation payments

Lithuania’s parliament is considering amendments to restrict hunting and fishing rights for individuals who fail to comply with court orders to pay compensation for damages, including environmental harm, LRT reports.

The proposed changes, submitted by Linas Jonauskas, chair of the Seimas Environmental Protection Committee, would prevent or suspend fishing and hunting licenses for those evading court-mandated payments—not only for child support but also for unpaid damages from crimes or environmental harm.

Jonauskas stated the goal is to encourage compliance with court rulings and faster repayment to victims, including children and the state. “The state should not grant additional privileges to those who shirk their duties. If someone fails to pay child support or compensation for damages, they should not benefit from state-granted rights like hunting or fishing,” he said.

The restrictions would be temporary, with rights restored once obligations are fulfilled. The proposal aligns with existing parliamentary discussions on broader sanctions for non-paying parents, including bans on driving, boat operation, and firearm ownership.

A related initiative by MP Darius Razmislevičius, already backed by 101 parliament members, seeks to revoke driving licenses, hunting permits, and gun ownership for those evading child support. If approved, the new rules could take effect as early as November this year.